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‘Dear You’ Director Spills Secret to Sleeper Hit!

Director Lan Hongchun reveals the surprising cultural tradition that fueled the emotional powerhouse cinema is still buzzing about.

6/19/2026, 9:53:03 AM

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‘Dear You’ Director Spills Secret to Sleeper Hit!

Shanghai is still reeling from the bombshell revelation dropped by director Lan Hongchun. His flick, "Dear You," is the talk of the town, and now we know why it's striking such a deep chord with audiences everywhere. The genius behind the film just spilled the beans on the secret sauce: an age-old tradition called qiaopi.

For those not in the know, qiaopi isn't just some dusty historical footnote; it's the heartbeat of a community. It's all about those heartfelt letters and money transfers between Chinese folks living abroad and their families back home. Think of it as a lifeline, a tangible connection across continents, brimming with bittersweet emotion and unspoken stories. And Hongchun tapped right into that emotional goldmine.

He didn't just stumble upon this; he wielded it like a master craftsman. At the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival, Hongchun took center stage, practically glowing from the success of his movie. He dissected how "Dear You" isn't just a film; it's a mirror reflecting the profound impact of these family ties. The movie has become a phenomenon, proving that sometimes, the most universal emotions are found in the most specific cultural practices.

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‘Dear You’ Director Spills Secret to Sleeper Hit! — photo 3

Fans are absolutely losing their minds over "Dear You." Social media is awash with teary emojis and heartfelt confessions of how the film resonated with their own family histories. Critics, usually a jaded bunch, are singing its praises, calling it a masterclass in emotional storytelling. It’s rare to see such a widespread, genuine connection from both the public and the industry, but "Dear You" has managed to bridge that gap with undeniable charm and raw feeling.

The film isn't just making waves in China; whispers are spreading across the globe. Everyone wants a piece of this emotional rollercoaster. Variety even highlighted the director's insightful comments, further cementing its status as a must-see.

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‘Dear You’ Director Spills Secret to Sleeper Hit! — photo 6

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Read original at Variety

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