Chinese hit film "Dear You," which follows a series of cross-border family letters, officially premiered in North America on Friday, landing in over 160 theaters across dozens of cities in the United States and Canada.
The low-budget film, primarily spoken in Chaoshan (Teochew) dialect, centers on Qiaopi -- letters and remittances sent home by earlier generations of overseas Chinese. It tells a heartfelt story of immigrant families who left for Southeast Asia and beyond while staying connected to their loved ones across the sea.
In New York, audience members were visibly moved. One viewer recalled how her parents once exchanged letters when they were young.
"When my parents were young, they also communicated by writing letters. We still have several boxes of letters that my mom and dad exchanged back then. So, when I saw this movie, it reminded me of the love between them," said a moviegoer.
"[It offers a chance] For us, like Chinese living abroad, to know better of our past, our culture," said another moviegoer with Chinese origin.
Daniel, a New Yorker from an immigrant family himself, shared his story.
"I'm from an immigrant family as well. I have family abroad and my family was brought here by my elders. And so, it's reminding me of that and the sacrifices that they made and who they helped to support back home," he said.
On the West Coast, the film also struck a deep chord. At the AMC theater in Sunnyvale, California, six screenings were held on opening night, with ticket sales performing well.
"I love Asian movies, very different approach to different cultures," said a moviegoer.
Suzy Liu, whose parents are from Chaozhou and whose grandfather once worked in Thailand, plans to see the film multiple times with her family.
"I think I'll end up seeing it at least three times. For the parents, it's a reflection of their life, the culture, the love, family value, friendship. For the children, I want them to know about the roots," Liu said.
While in Canada, the film screened in 17 cities from Calgary to Edmonton, drawing packed houses and enthusiastic responses. Though lacking big-budget special effects, "Dear You" won over audiences with its restrained storytelling, rich regional heritage, and genuine emotional core.
"It's very touching. It's touching of course for people of Chinese culture, but even people like myself, there's so much in it that we can connect with. So, I was born here in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. My family comes from Eastern Canada. So, one thing that connected with me is this notion of moving far away to make things better for your family," said a Canadian-born viewer.
Chinese hit film "Dear You" premieres in North America, capturing hearts with cross-border storytelling
