Paradise of the Blind

Hang awakens on the train to Moscow. She looks out the window, and the fog reminds her of an artist who can’t seem to escape from the fog in his paintings. Hang relates to the sentiment that home is inescapable. She thinks back to the landscapes that have left their mark on her own life and reflects on the beauty found within filthy settings.

Hang witnesses a tender goodbye at the train station. The scene triggers a memory of leaving Vietnam for Russia to become an exported worker. Years before leaving for Russia, Hang is successful in her school exams and gains admittance to the university. Aunt Tam is proud of Hang’s accomplishment and lavishes her with celebrations and gifts. Hang prepares to spend a week with Aunt Tam before heading to the university. Que acts indifferent to Hang’s growing bond with Tam, turning her attention instead to Chinh’s sons. The distance between Hang and her mother grows.

Hang arrives at Tam’s home, and they share a meal before Hang takes a nap. She awakens to the sounds of a pig being butchered outside. The butchering is efficient and professional, followed by the arrival of three women to prepare a celebration feast in Hang’s honor.