From Best Feature Film to historic individual honors, “Chrysalis” leaves a lasting impression in Los Angeles prior to its nationwide September 11 launch across Vietnamese theaters via CJ CGV.
The acclaimed feature film “Chrysalis” made a resounding impact at the 2026 Los Angeles Tribune International Film Festival (LATIFF), securing five coveted awards during the ceremony held at the historic Culver Theater in California. The biographical drama took home accolades for Best Feature Film, Best Director (J. Robert Schulz), Best Actress (Kieu Chinh), Best Orchestral Score (Elia Cmiral), and the inaugural Best Child Actor award.
Nine-year-old Vietnamese talent Uy Nhan made history as LATIFF’s very first Best Child Actor laureate for his moving portrayal of young Daniel (Cu Den). His performance resonated deeply with the jury, prompting LATIFF Co-Founder and President Dr. Emily Letran to announce an upcoming official visit to Vietnam to present the trophy to the young star personally.
Rooted in the formative memories of renowned artist Sir Daniel K. Winn, “Chrysalis” explores a young boy’s coming-of-age story in 1975 Saigon, anchored by an enduring bond with his beloved grandmother, Ba Noi (portrayed by veteran icon Kieu Chinh). While Uy Nhan brings the protagonist’s youth to life, Winn himself appears in present-day sequences.
“Witnessing Uy Nhan embody my childhood memories was a profoundly moving experience,” reflected Sir Daniel K. Winn. “He brought incredible honesty and fortitude to the role. To see his talent recognized on an international stage right before Vietnamese audiences experience the film is deeply gratifying.”
The stellar ensemble cast features Samuel An, Lan Thy, Le Anh Huy, Tien Pham, and Trinh Tu Trung, complemented by Elia Cmiral’s majestic symphonic soundtrack. Following prominent showcases at Cannes’ Marché du Film and DANAFF IV—where Kieu Chinh was honored with the Screen Excellence Merit Award—the film is set to screen across Vietnam starting September 11, 2026, distributed by CJ CGV under the Vietnamese title “Mai No Mot Loi Tam Biet” (“The Farewell I Never Gave”).
