A cinematic epic that spans generations, 'Dear You' is a sweeping romance that has left audiences in China on the edge of their seats. Directed by Lan Hongchun with the finesse of a conductor leading an orchestra, this sprawling narrative weaves together the intricate history of a Teochew-speaking Chinese family like a masterful tapestry.
The story kicks off with 87-year-old matriarch Shurou (played by Iap Sok-jiu) celebrating her birthday in present-day Shantou, China. She's a pillar of strength, revered by her community for raising three children alone in the 1940s and 50s, but there's more to her story than meets the eye. Her grandson, Xiaowei (Hiau-ui), is on a mission to uncover the truth behind his grandfather Zheng Musheng's mysterious disappearance decades ago – a quest that will take him from the streets of Shantou to the bustling city of Bangkok.
Xiaowei's investigation sets off a chain reaction, transporting viewers back 70 years in time to unravel the secrets of Musheng's past. As he digs deeper, the prevailing family assumptions about his second life begin to crumble, revealing a more complex and nuanced reality. We meet Xie Nanzhi (Li Sitong), an innkeeper's daughter who becomes embroiled in Musheng's life – but is she really his second wife? The lines between business and pleasure are blurred as Musheng establishes an informal school in the boarding house, teaching local children to read and write Mandarin.
Literacy is a recurring theme throughout the film, highlighting how Musheng maintained a vital connection with Shurou through 'qiaopi' – special remittance letters containing money that ensured his family's survival back home. Director Lan Hongchun keeps the pace brisk, injecting energy into the narrative with an array of entertaining side characters and comedic interludes. The film's sense of place is palpable, with authentic period colour transporting viewers to Bangkok's Chinatown in a bygone era.
'Dear You' offers a rich tapestry of human experience, blending sentimentality with a healthy dose of salty humour that will leave you cheering for more. Its success in China, driven by a mostly non-professional cast delivering impressively naturalistic performances, suggests it's a film that will resonate with audiences worldwide. With UK streaming and theatrical release details still to be announced, keep an eye out for this cinematic gem – it's a must-watch for aficionados of romantic dramas and family sagas.