Will Dear You’s smash success push Singapore to ease dialect film policies?

The Chinese film "Dear You" has seen a strong demand for its limited Teochew screenings in Singapore, with one Singaporean, Hong Weilun, expressing disappointment at being unable to secure tickets. Hong emphasized the importance of watching the film in its original Teochew version to fully appreciate the actors' performances, nuances, and emotional depth. He had initially considered traveling to Malaysia to see the film. The article suggests this success might prompt a discussion about Singapore's policies regarding dialect films.

The Chinese film "Dear You," primarily spoken in the Teochew dialect, has become a box office hit in China and sparked an identity debate in Singapore. Many Singaporeans were dismayed that screenings were dubbed into Mandarin, prompting calls for Teochew showings. This has reignited a discussion about Singapore's long-standing government campaign promoting Mandarin over Chinese dialects, which has led to a significant decline in dialect usage. The government has responded to public outcry by promising a more flexible approach to screening dialect films. The movie's narrative, set against a historical wave of Chinese migration to Southeast Asia, resonates with many Singaporeans and highlights the cultural significance of these dialects.