Starting Place

In Starting Place, filmmaker Kramer's return to Hanoi nearly 25 years after his first visit provides a unique perspective on the city's historical and cultural landscape. The documentary highlights a variety of Vietnamese characters, including Kramer's former guide from 1969, a tight-rope walker from the national circus, and individuals with personal connections to the Vietnam War, such as a photographer and a veteran who lost his fingers during combat.

The film captures the diverse experiences and memories that shape the identity of Hanoi. It offers a thoughtful examination of how the past continues to influence the present and future of the city. Through these narratives, Starting Place invites viewers to reflect on the broader implications of memory and history.