‘The Sympathizer’ Review: A Fresh Take on The Vietnam War Narrative
The Vietnam War is a defining chapter in American cultural history, often depicted through the lens of Hollywood movies and TV shows. Yet, the impact on the Vietnamese people rarely receives the same attention. HBO’s ‘The Sympathizer,’ a satirical spy thriller, offers a refreshing critique of this American perspective, blending sharp wit with flashes of the absurd, a hallmark of director Park Chan-wook, known for ‘Oldboy.’
Adapted from Viet Thanh Nguyen’s 2015 novel by Park and co-writer Don McKellar, ‘The Sympathizer’ is a gripping watch that rewards attentive viewers. While the promotion of the show focuses on Oscar winner Robert Downey Jr.’s multifaceted roles, it’s Hoa Xuande’s portrayal of The Captain that truly stands out. The Captain, a character of mixed Vietnamese and French heritage, grapples with his identity, a struggle that becomes more complex when he operates as a Communist mole within South Vietnam’s pro-capitalist government. This internal conflict makes The Captain a compelling protagonist.
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The series kicks off during the final days before the Fall of Saigon, but much of the drama unfolds in the aftermath. The Captain’s mission continues as he escapes to keep tabs on The General (Toan Lee) and report back. Cut off from his Viet Cong contacts and forced to communicate through letters, he faces significant challenges to maintain his cover, creating a rich source of dramatic tension.
Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar’s script masterfully balances tension with moments of levity. A discussion on the right footwear for a political assassination, for instance, adds a darkly comic touch that enhances the series’ satirical tone without undermining its seriousness. Lines like “America! They eat your heart and complain about indigestion” linger long after the credits roll, showcasing the sharp humour embedded in the dialogue.
Though Robert Downey Jr.’s portrayal of multiple American establishment figures—ranging from a CIA operative to a racially insensitive academic and a pompous senator—might seem to dominate the show, it serves a broader purpose. According to the showrunners, these roles illustrate the interconnectedness and collusion within American institutions.
Downey Jr.’s characters are patronising in their treatment of The Captain, offering “help” that often comes across as condescending. The depiction of an unhinged method actor in a Vietnam War film within the show draws a direct parallel with ‘Apocalypse Now,’ highlighting the absurdity of Hollywood’s portrayal of the war.
While it’s entertaining to watch The Captain outwit these American institutions, his victories are fleeting, emphasising that capitalism and American influence often prevail. The choice to cast Downey Jr., a key figure in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, underscores the dominance of American media in global political and cultural narratives.
At its core, ‘The Sympathizer’ is also a story about friendship. The Captain’s bond with his friends Man (Duy Nguyen) and Bon (Fred Nguyen Khan) transcends political divides, echoing Alexandre Dumas’ ‘The Three Musketeers.’ Despite the war’s impact, their friendship remains steadfast, adding a poignant layer to the narrative. Although female characters like Sandra Oh’s Sofia are underutilised, the focus on the trio’s relationship is a progressive and compelling element of the series.
