River Cities Network
CANAL FISHING: "Canal Fishing" is an observational documentary that delves into the enduring cultural significance of the Kenh Te canal in Ho Chi Minh City. Once a bustling trade route connecting Cho Lon to the port in District 4, the canal has since ceased to serve as a major commercial artery. Despite this, it continues to sustain local communities by providing a source of food.
The film intimately follows a local fisherman as he wades through the canal, skillfully foraging with his net. Through his techniques and tools, the documentary showcases the traditional practices of living off the land, which are prevalent throughout Vietnam. Rather than depicting these practices as indicators of poverty, the film highlights them as integral elements of a cultural tapestry that blends rural traditions with urban life.
By portraying the fisherman’s daily activities and the community's deep connection to the canal, "Canal Fishing" underscores the rich cultural heritage that this waterway represents. The film calls for a recognition and embrace of these practices as a valuable part of the community's identity and history, forged through the processes of migration and adaptation.