The distinct impression Vietnam director Tran Anh Hung has given us through his films is one of sensual beauty. Whereas in “The Scent of Green Papaya” the main focus was on nature, here Tran has turned his camera loose in much the same way on a Vietnamese family, and it proves a richly-flavored cuisine.

The story revolves around three beautiful sisters of various ages, all living together as a family unit. Two sisters are married and one of those has a child. Together with a younger brother, an extended and supportive family unit has formed in Hanoi. While Tran captures the beauty outside their home, he begins to focus on what lies beneath the surface, and what begins as a tiny sprinkle, becomes a steady rain of sensuality.

The outward happiness and tranquility of this extended family belies what Tran shows us, pulling back the curtain slowly to reveal deep secrets and shocking deceptions. Always present is the search for the truth regarding the romance of their parents, led by the sisters, which is shrouded in mystery.

Ravishingly beautiful Tran Nu Yen Khe portrays the single sister, Lien. She and her older brother have a flirtatious relationship that causes many on the streets of Hanoi to mistakenly believe they are a couple. Only in the final moments of this film will we come to understand that history may be repeating itself.

The lush foliage of Vietnam and the lovely city of Hanoi are wonderfully brought to life by Tran, and an excellent soundtrack enhances the unique atmosphere of another impressionistic rendering of a place and its people by a director with a unique vision. Perhaps Tran’s greatest achievement here, however, is a feeling of sensuality you can almost touch. Once again he has turned a movie into a film, and that film into art.

If art house films are not part of your diet, you may want to pass on this one, and Papaya. If you occasionally enjoy the experience however, you cannot go wrong with this Vietnamese delicacy. The Vertical Ray of the Sun is shining straight down on the human heart. ( )