The journey is personal, yet studious as it probes the sweeping changes created by Vietnam's efforts to blend capitalism with socialism. The visit took place in January, two weeks before the United States lifted its 18-year trade embargo, and Gliner's editing captures a mood that combines a new irony with old tensions. Tradition vs. progress Early in the program, for example, a Vietnamese woman declares her dislike for Americans while also conceding she's eager to do business with them. A culture that's defined by tradition is nervous about losing its moral focus in the pursuit of economic progress. Major problems already are evident.
Some children work instead of going to school.
The divorce rate is rising. Class divisions are disturbingly sharp. The health care system is breaking down. Indeed, viewers may start to despair as the extent of the country's distress becomes clear. But pay close attention.