A new documentary shows the close bond between May, a young chimpanzee, and her caregiver Nguyen Thanh Phong. The film was nominated for Best Direction at the 31st Asian Television Awards, so it is worth watching.

May was the first chimpanzee born at Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc in 2023. Her mother could not give enough milk, so the staff separated May and gave her intensive care.

Nguyen Thanh Phong became May’s primary caregiver. He fed her with a bottle, watched her health all the time, gave medical help, and played with her, acting like an adoptive father.

Director Nguyen Duc De filmed the daily life of May and Phong without any narration. The documentary looks at human‑animal relationships and talks about attachment, responsibility and the sad side of love when we must let go.

Phong says caring for May changed his life. He learned to live simply, to give, love, care for and share with others, and he felt very sad when he had to be apart from her.