UniAction furthers its commitment to Cultural Diplomacy by launching its first film project produced by UniAction Films and Les Films de l'Hydre

Montréal, July 17, 2016 — In a deeply emotional and inspiring evening at Cinéma Impérial, UniAction proudly launched its first cultural diplomacy initiative through film with the preview screening of A Moonless Night: Boat People, 40 Years Later. The documentary pays tribute to the courage of Vietnamese refugee parents and highlights the profound contributions of the Vietnamese community to Canadian society.

Directed by Marie-Hélène Panisset and produced by UniAction Films, the documentary tells the moving story of the Vietnamese Boat People who shares personal testimonies, archival footage, and intergenerational reflections. The film sheds light on their incredible journey and the legacy they have built over four decades in Canada.

For UniAction, this premiere was more than a cinematic event—it was a tribute to a generation of parents whose sacrifices laid the foundation for a vibrant and thriving Vietnamese-Canadian community.

"This film is our way of saying thank you," said Thi Be Nguyen, Founder of UniAction and Executive Producer of the film. “It is dedicated to our parents—the brave men and women who, through unimaginable hardship, gave us the chance to live with dignity and hope in a new land. Their resilience, hard work, and values continue to shape our collective success.”

Held in the iconic Cinéma Impérial in downtown Montréal, the launch gathered community members, youth, civic leaders, and cultural advocates to reflect on the refugee experience and recognize the Vietnamese diaspora’s integral role in Canada’s social and economic fabric.

Over the past 40 years, the Vietnamese community has contributed significantly to the development of Canadian society—as entrepreneurs, professionals, artists, academics, and citizens engaged in public service and philanthropy. The film underscores how these achievements are rooted in the strength, discipline, and spirit of the first generation who arrived with nothing but built a future for many.

The event also served as an intergenerational gathering, with youth hearing first-hand stories of hardship and triumph, deepening their understanding of identity, gratitude, and belonging. "Our parents did not just survive—they built, contributed, and gave back" added Nguyen.

Reflecting on the project, film director Marie-Hélène Panisset shared: "This film is a gesture of remembrance and gratitude. I was deeply moved by the trust of the families who shared their stories. It was important for me to tell them with tenderness and truth, and to honor not only what was lost—but all that was built with courage and love."

Following the screening, guests gathered for a warm reception where dialogue and remembrance flowed. The energy in the room was one of unity, pride, and profound respect.

The documentary will be premiered at Cinéma du Parc from November 21 to 27, 2016, and multiple theatrical projections are scheduled in Toronto, Québec City and Halifax, giving wider audiences the opportunity to experience the powerful narrative and reflect on this important chapter of shared history.

With A Moonless Night: Boat People, 40 Years Later, UniAction launches its first major initiative in cultural diplomacy through film, using the power of storytelling to preserve memory, build bridges, and celebrate the communities that help shape a more inclusive and compassionate Canada.

More info on IMDB