Since 2005, in the context of innovation and integration of social sciences and humanities in general and arts in particular, USSH launched a film studies project sponsored by Ford Foundation. In 7 years, this project organized many short-term courses on screenwriting and film criticism coupled with research and production exercises, paving the way for researchers to discuss with scholars from America and other countries in the region. On this basis, the University began to develop the Art Studies program and in 2013-2014, it was permitted to open the Master's program on Film theory, history and criticism.

In this light, the conference “Contemporary Asian cinema – History, aesthetics and style” was held to make some preliminary evaluations of the achievements and issues of Asian cinematic industry so as to draw experiences and implications for film studies, teaching and development in Vietnam.

The conference focused on the following issues:

• The establishment, development, distinct features and contributions of “Asian cinema” especially since 1990s. The position of Asian cinema in its multi-dimensional interaction with other centers of cinema in the world (in Europe, Hollywood, etc.) and the relationship among regional cinemas.
• The “internal” issues of Asian cinema: cinematic aesthetics and style; adaptation/arrangement of literary and theatrical works; genre development; authors of notable styles; crucial historical, political, cultural and identity issues, etc.
• How to improve exchanges and cooperation with regional cinemas, the experiences, suggestions and recommendations for Vietnamese cinema towards establishing an innovative, modern, integrative and unique cinema.

There were 41 papers presented at 2 panels: “Issues on the history of national cinema” and “Issues on aesthetics and personal styles”.