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"Rom" is a 2019 Vietnamese film directed by Tran Thanh Huy and features a young and vibrant cast, including Tran Anh Khoa, Anh Tu, and Jayvee Mai The Hiep. The movie is synonymous with the thrills and raw emotions that drive the narrative of urban hardship, survival, and dreams, set against the bustling backdrop of Ho Chi Minh City.

The film's title carries a double meaning; it represents the lottery (which is a central plot device in the story) and also plays on the name of the main character, a teenage boy called Rom (played by Tran Anh Khoa). Rom's life is a daily hustle through the crowded alleys of the city where he and other residents engage in selling lottery tickets - a profession seen as both a hope and a curse to the sellers who dream of better days.

Living a life of poverty in the cramped quarters of Ho Chi Minh City's slums, Rom is an embodiment of struggle and aspirations. With no family to call his own, Rom survives by his wits, making his living as a street urchin and lottery vendor. The film beautifully captures the raw realities of life in the urban underbelly, where every day is a gamble, and the future is as uncertain as the flip of a coin.

Rom's story becomes intertwined with several other characters, each with their unique dreams and battles. The community of lottery sellers forms a tapestry of interconnected lives, where they depend on each other for news of the winning numbers that could potentially change their destinies. A complex network of personal relationships, rivalries, and alliances helps and hinders the characters as they navigate the hardscrabble streets of the city.

Anh Tu portrays another key character in the film, a sort of mentor figure to Rom, who has his method of obtaining the winning numbers that have garnered him the trust of the local community. His character adds depth to the narrative by giving insight into the perennial hope that drives these characters in their pursuit of luck and prosperity.

Jayvee Mai The Hiep fits into the mosaic as a pivotal character whose history and actions ripple through the story, revealing the interconnections between different societal layers in urban Vietnam. Through sheer grit and compelling presence, Jayvee's character further explores the themes of desperation and resilience that are so prevalent throughout the movie.

Director Tran Thanh Huy masterfully crafts a poignant portrayal of the city's underclass, painting a rich yet stark panorama of the city that is often unseen and unacknowledged by many of its visitors and residents. The film communicates the palpable tension of the lives tethered to the lottery - a metaphor for both the capriciousness and the hope that define their everyday existence.

Thematically, "Rom" delves into the social dynamics of chance and the desperation of those left behind in the rapid modernization of Vietnam. It examines the role that luck plays in the characters' lives, serving as a harsh reminder that sometimes, no matter how hard one works or how much they deserve more, the randomness of life can overlook the most deserving of individuals.

The cinematography of “Rom” is raw and visceral, capturing the essence of the city with a kinetic energy that mirrors the hustle of its protagonist. The camera work is agile, often handheld, diving into the crowded streets and alleyways with a frenetic pace that makes the viewer feel the urgency and hustle of street life.

The film also doesn't shy away from the darker, more dangerous aspects of Rom's world. It delivers thrilling moments that highlight the risks street kids and lottery sellers undergo daily. Themes of betrayal, violence, and the harsh realities of street life are all present, creating a multifaceted and compelling narrative.

The performances across the board bring the film to life, with Tran Anh Khoa delivering a breakout performance as Rom. His portrayal of a young, determined survivor is both moving and engaging, capturing the desperation and youthful energy of someone for whom adult responsibilities have come too soon.

"Rom" takes you on a heart-pounding journey through the lesser-known pathways of a bustling metropolis. It's a social realist drama that combines elements of thriller and coming-of-age genres to present a powerful, poignant tale that remains relevant and affecting. The movie has gained international attention and acclaim for its honest storytelling and dynamic presentation, making it a standout piece in contemporary Vietnamese cinema.

Ultimately, "Rom" is a cinematic exploration of the dichotomy between the pursuit of luck and the hard grind of reality. It hones in on the human desire for a break in one's fortune and the communal bonds that form amid shared struggles. Controversial, compelling, and visually arresting, it is an intense ride through the kaleidoscope of human experiences in the pursuit of a dream.

Rom is a 2020 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.