Culture

Acclaimed Chinese film "Dear You" strikes chord in Los Angeles 2026/9/18 source: Print

Chinese blockbuster "Dear You", a family drama rooted in the history of Chinese migration to Southeast Asia, has found a receptive audience in Los Angeles of the United States, where viewers said its story of love, sacrifice and longing for home transcends boundaries.

Written and directed by Lan Hongchun and filmed largely in the Teochew dialect, the movie follows a young man traveling to Thailand in search of the grandfather whom his family believes abandoned them. His search unravels a family story spanning decades, linked by "qiaopi" -- letters and remittances sent home by Chinese emigrants.

The film has also been released in global markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Britain, Australia and North America.

As of Sunday, it had grossed 304 million U.S. dollars worldwide, including 291 million U.S. dollars in the Chinese mainland and 674,000 U.S. dollars in North America, according to the latest data from Chinese ticketing platform Maoyan.

"I really enjoyed the film. I wanted to come and see it to understand better some things about Chinese culture and the history around it. It's a family story about relationships and love and dedication. And, you know, that transcends any national boundaries. I'm just really glad I saw it. And yes, I think that anybody should've watched that and enjoy it," said moviegoer Mike Hamler.

For Chinese Americans, the film offered not only a window into the history of migration, but also rekindled family memories. Its portrayal of letters and parcels sent home from Southeast Asia evoked traditions some audiences had encountered in their own families.

"I was touched while watching the movie because it shows salted pork sent from Thailand to the native home. That was a tradition in my family, too. My father told me that when he was a child, he received salted pork sent by relatives in Thailand. My parents also saw the film, and both of them were deeply moved," said moviegoer Zhang Ling.

Beyond its family mystery, the film uses "qiaopi" to show how money, news and affection crossed borders, sustaining ties between overseas Chinese communities and their families in China.

"The film also strongly impressed me with the portrayal of how united overseas Chinese are. What has not changed, I think, is the longing for one's native home, family and motherland," said moviegoer Sun Tianze.


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