Chinese Cinema Hit 'Dear You' Expands to Global Theaters Through Damai Entertainment

"Dear You," a compelling Teochew-dialect drama, has captivated audiences in China, emerging as one of the standout cinematic achievements of 2026. Its impending international release, spearheaded by Damai Entertainment, promises to introduce this poignant narrative of family, history, and the Chinese diaspora to a broader global viewership.

Chinese Box Office Sensation 'Dear You' Embarks on International Journey

In a significant cinematic event, the critically acclaimed Chinese film, "Dear You," is slated for an expansive global theatrical release commencing on June 18. This compelling Teochew-dialect drama, a remarkable box office triumph in China during 2026, has already garnered over RMB1.5 billion ($221.6 million) domestically, securing its position as the second-highest grossing film of the year, surpassed only by "Pegasus 3." Directed by Lan Hongchun, the film also boasts an exceptional 9.2 rating on Douban, derived from over 700,000 user reviews, marking it as one of the most highly-rated Chinese releases in over a decade.

The narrative of "Dear You" intricately weaves together past and present, following a young grandson, Xiaowei, as he clandestinely journeys to Thailand. His mission: to locate his grandfather, who abruptly severed ties with the family decades ago. During his search, Xiaowei unearths a profound story rooted in the vibrant Chinese diaspora community of 1950s Bangkok. Central to this discovery are "qiaopi," historical remittance letters sent home by overseas Chinese workers, and a mysterious woman named Xie Nanzhi, whose handwritten correspondence holds the crucial key to unlocking the family's concealed past.

The film features a talented ensemble cast including Li Sitong, Wang Yantong, Wu Shaoqing, Zheng Runqi, and Wang Xiaohui, alongside Thai actor Usha Seamkhum. The initial phase of its international rollout will encompass Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. Subsequently, a broader release will extend to more than ten additional territories, including key markets such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam. This global distribution effort is being managed by Damai Entertainment, formerly known as Alibaba Pictures, a company that rebranded in 2025 and is renowned for its extensive involvement in the production and distribution of over 300 films, leveraging platforms like Tao Piao Piao and Beacon AI. "Dear You" represents director Lan Hongchun's third feature film set within the rich Chaoshan cultural milieu, following his previous works "I Am Sure I Can" and "Take Me to See My Mom." The cultural significance of "qiaopi," recognized as part of the UNESCO World Memory Register, underscores the film's deep historical and emotional resonance.

The international distribution of "Dear You" by Damai Entertainment signifies a pivotal moment for Chinese diaspora cinema. It not only provides a global platform for a film deeply embedded in Teochew culture and history but also highlights the universal themes of family, identity, and the enduring legacy of migration. This expansion allows audiences across diverse continents to connect with a powerful story that transcends geographical boundaries, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of Chinese cinematic artistry and its cultural contributions.