Help us tell the untold stories of Saigon 75

Saigon 75 is a powerful documentary that shines a light on untold stories of migration, culture, memory and food. The end of the Vietnam War in 1975 was a catalyst for waves of migration across the 1970s, 80s and 90s, with the Vietnamese bringing their cuisine – unique in Asia due to its historical influences from China, India and a French colonial past – to many countries worldwide.

Through hearing the migration stories of family members, and Vietnamese chefs and restaurateurs whilst cooking together, Thuy Hoang learns about her own past, heritage and the memories each treasured dish evokes for those she encounters. Some of them were rapidly transported by helicopter to the decks of the last US aircraft carriers to leave in 1975, others were “boat people”, or orphans flown out of Saigon for adoption in other countries, and some spent time in refugee camps. Economic migrants came later, bringing with them the addition of exciting Northern dishes.

Saigon 75 is testament to hope and human resilience. The people Thuy meets are united by making challenging journeys, rebuilding their lives in new countries, and by starting again often with very little. Poignant memories are triggered by their cherished dishes and, for some, there were also journeys into the food industry. For these immigrants, Vietnamese food sustains and nourishes a vital cultural identity, but their treasured dishes also conjure key moments in captivating life stories.

Why this matters

This film is more than history. It’s a testament to courage and the human spirit. It speaks to every migrant community, rebuilding life from nothing, and the importance of food. These oral accounts are a treasure trove of cultural heritage for future generations.

My personal story

I was born and lived in Saigon, Vietnam. Following 1975, my wider family started to leave the country to settle in the US, Canada and the UK. For example, some were boat people spending time in refugee camps e.g., in Malaysia before settling in the UK. In 1981, my father, mother, brother and I left for the United Kingdom. The women in my family are all superb cooks and, for us all, food is vital for sustaining our cultural heritage. Dishes remind us of key events in our life journeys too. For the first time, these stories—and many others—will be told in Saigon 75.

Who we are

I’m Thuy Hoang, part of the Vietnamese diaspora in the UK. I have teamed up with BAFTA and Royal Television Society-nominated Editor and TV Producer/ Director Martin Johnson, and Director of Photography Patrick Acum, who have a raft of credits including Netflix, National Geographic, Disney+ and BBC TV. We are proud to be supported by London's Vietnamese Family Partnership.

How you can help

We need your support to complete this important film. Money raised will go towards e.g., licensing archive historical images and footage, essential equipment, travel, etc.

Every donation counts—even the smallest gift makes a difference.

£200 or more: If we reach our funding level and can complete the film, your name will appear in the closing credits.

£1,000 or more: If we can complete the film, you’ll be credited as an Executive Producer.

(Equivalent amounts apply for donors outside the UK.)

If you’re a business, charity, or individual who can help in other ways—or if this story resonates with you—please get in touch. We also have a call for photos. We’d love to hear from you.

Join us

Visit the Saigon 75 website (www.saigon75.info) to learn more.

Together, we can ensure these stories live on.

Thank you for supporting Saigon 75.

Thuy Hoang