LayarHijau – Chaoshan dialect film Dear You (给阿嬤的情書) has become one of the biggest surprise hits of China’s early May holiday box office this year. Directed by Lan Hongchun, the movie managed to attract widespread attention despite having almost no major promotion.
On its opening day, the film reportedly received less than 2% of theater screenings. However, thanks to strong word of mouth and an impressive 9.1 rating on Douban, Dear You pulled off an unexpected box office breakthrough. Its total earnings have now surpassed 150 million yuan.
Support Layar Hijau
Layar Hijau is an independent media outlet dedicated to sharing news and stories about the Asian dramas you love. If you enjoy our content, your support helps us keep going and bring more stories to fellow drama fans.
Every bit of support means a lot to us. Thank you for reading, following, and being part of Layar Hijau's journey.
For supporters in Indonesia
For international supporters
For more information, click here.
The film’s success has also drawn attention from many Chinese celebrities, including Li Xian, who is currently filming the drama A Touch of Green (雾里青) in Guangdong.
After watching the movie, Li Xian shared three photos on his Weibo account and admitted that the story moved him deeply.
“Highly recommended! I cried in the theater,” Li Xian wrote.
According to the actor, the film does not rely on exaggerated emotional scenes to manipulate viewers. Instead, its story about family bonds, distance, and years of waiting quietly delivers a powerful emotional impact.
Li Xian’s emotional reaction quickly attracted attention online, helping the film trend once again on Chinese social media platforms.
It was not only Li Xian who praised the movie. Acclaimed director and writer Han Han also strongly recommended the film after watching it.
Han Han even said he hoped Dear You could eventually reach 1.314 billion yuan at the box office, a number associated in Chinese culture with the meaning of “forever.”
Several other celebrities, including Ayanga, Liu Meihan, Sun Yizhou, and director Yi Xiaoxing, also shared positive reviews of the film.
Many praised its detailed portrayal of “qiaopi” culture — letters and remittance documents sent by overseas Chinese immigrants — as well as the natural performances delivered by its non-professional actors.
As reported, Dear You uses the unique Chaoshan “qiaopi” culture as the heart of its story, uncovering a family secret that has been buried for 60 years.
The production team previously admitted that they did not have enough money for large-scale marketing. Ironically, that raw sincerity and simplicity may be exactly what helped the film resonate with audiences tired of formulaic commercial movies.
Chinese dramas products
Rosy Zhao Rosydoedian Authentic Dachshund Plush Doll Squeaky Soft Stuffed Decorative Throw Pillow Collectible Gift
Authenthic Dachshund plush doll from Zhao Lusi's Rosydoedian.
It's only available for shipping to certain countries.
Official Genuine Pursuit of Jade Drama Collectible Photocards Zhang Linghe Tian Xiwei Photo Trading Cards Holiday Gift
Official genuine collectible photocards These Pursuit of Jade Drama collectible photocards are officially licensed and authentic, featuring beloved characters Zhang Linghe and Tian Xiwei. Perfect for fans seeking genuine memorabilia from the popular drama.
New Drama Fangs Of Fortune Official Merch Collectible Cards Zhao Yuanzhou, Wen Xiao Characters HD Photocard Cosplay Gift
Official Merchandise from Fangs of Fortune This collectible card set is officially licensed Fangs of Fortune merchandise, featuring beloved characters Zhao Yuanzhou and Wen Xiao in high-definition detail for true fans.
