Dear You, the Chinese film that captivated audiences with its heartfelt story told almost entirely in the Teochew dialect, is set for its Singapore debut. After earning over 1.7 billion yuan in China, the film will be available in Mandarin-dubbed versions for general viewers alongside limited screenings in the original dialect.
- Grossed over S$322 million in China
- Mandarin-dubbed and Teochew screenings in Singapore
- Story spans 1940s China and present-day Southeast Asia
What happened
Dear You, a Chinese film filmed almost entirely in the Teochew dialect, achieved blockbuster status in China with box office revenues exceeding 1.7 billion yuan (approximately S$322 million). The film tells a poignant two-timeline story about a grandson searching for his long-lost grandfather in Thailand today and a newlywed from 1940s China traveling to Southeast Asia to support his family.
Starting June 18, Singapore audiences can watch Dear You in Mandarin-dubbed versions screening commercially across cinemas. Additionally, the original Teochew version will be featured at premier and festival events, including sold-out showings at Golden Village VivoCity between June 18 and 21, ensuring fans can experience the film in its authentic linguistic form.
Why it feels good
Dear You’s success highlights the beauty and importance of preserving dialect culture, offering viewers a touching glimpse into personal and regional histories through language and storytelling. Providing the Mandarin-dubbed version makes this heartfelt story accessible to a wider audience in Singapore, complementing the nation’s bilingual policy that promotes Mandarin among Chinese Singaporeans.
The film’s themes of family ties, migration, and resilience resonate universally, fostering a shared emotional connection across generations and communities. Audiences can appreciate the cultural depth and historical context while enjoying a compelling narrative that bridges past and present.
What to enjoy or watch next
If you’re eager to experience Dear You, secure tickets early for both Mandarin and original Teochew screenings, especially as select showings have already sold out. The film offers a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in a unique dialect and explore Southeast Asian Chinese heritage and storytelling.
For fans inspired by Dear You’s blend of historical drama and familial journey, looking out for other films that explore regional dialects and cultural narratives can deepen appreciation of diverse linguistic heritage. Festivals featuring dialect films provide a prime opportunity to discover more stories in original languages.