Singapore approves more screenings for Teochew film 'Dear You' amid audience demand

Singapore has responded to strong audience interest by approving an additional 50 screenings for the Teochew-language film "Dear You." The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI) acknowledged the significant public demand for dialect content.

“

strong interest

These new screenings add to the 22 Teochew showings already approved. Distributor Clover Films is currently finalizing the screening schedule. Previously, "Dear You" received approval for commercial release only in its Mandarin-dubbed version, with the original Teochew version limited to special niche events. This sparked public discussion about access to dialect films.

In response to the public discourse, the MDDI stated it would adopt a more flexible approach to future applications for screening dialect-language films. While Mandarin is recognized as a unifying language among Chinese Singaporeans, dialects are considered a valued part of Singapore's cultural heritage and identity. Officials expressed encouragement by the growing interest in dialects, especially among younger generations, hoping the additional screenings will allow more audiences to enjoy the film.

“

a valued part of Singapore’s cultural heritage and identity

The film "Dear You," directed by Lan Hongchun, features two interconnected timelines. It follows a grandson searching for his grandfather in present-day Thailand and a newly married man who left China in the 1940s seeking work in Southeast Asia. The movie has achieved considerable success in China, grossing over 1.7 billion yuan (US$250 million).

“

We are encouraged by the growing interest in dialects, including among younger Singaporeans and hope that these additional Teochew screenings enable more audiences to enjoy the film.