Director

Lý Hải

Born 1968 · Vietnam

Nguyễn Văn Hải, better known as Lý Hải, was born on September 28, 1968. He is a renowned Vietnamese singer, actor, businessman, and filmmaker. His career began in 1993 as a singer, but it wasn’t until 2001, with the release of the music film series Trọn Đời Bên Em, that he gained widespread fame. This series made him a popular figure, especially in Southern Vietnam, earning him the title “The People's Pop Star” for his relatable, accessible style, specializing in Vietnamese pop and Chinese-translated songs. Lý Hải's musical success laid the foundation for his foray into filmmaking, where he established his production company, Lý Hải Productions. His most successful creation to date is the Lật Mặt (Face Off) film series, which debuted in 2015. The franchise became a massive hit in Vietnamese cinema, grossing over 1,000 billion VND by 2024. The series has been praised for its action sequences, innovative plots, and technical achievements, with each film pushing the boundaries of Vietnamese filmmaking. One notable hallmark of Lý Hải’s directing career is his commitment to bold, large-scale stunts. He famously sacrificed several cars and even constructed and demolished entire sets, including a windmill and a village, to enhance the realism and intensity of his films. His willingness to “go big” has earned him acclaim in the industry. In addition to his willingness to break limits, Lý Hải is known for his continuous innovation, constantly experimenting with new filmmaking techniques to keep his work fresh and exciting. His progressive approach has helped him remain a relevant and influential figure in Vietnamese entertainment.