Equal part documentary and scripted, In her tiny house in District 4, Saigon, 101-year-old Ngoai survives through quiet resilience. Every evening, she hosts an illegal card game, a traditional Vietnamese pastime, to earn enough to survive the next day. With her loyal cat by her side and the support of neighbors, Ngoai navigates the challenges of aging and poverty. The card games are more than just a way to make ends meet and they bring laughter, warmth, and a sense of connection to her life. Though the slums weigh heavily on her, Ngoai’s strength and the care of her community help her live with dignity, making her a beloved figure in their world.

Sally Tran (DON’T F*CK WITH BA, CIFF 2024) returns with a vibrant and energetic documentary that blends genre and form.