Singapore eases stance on dialect films after 'Dear You' backlash
What's new: Authorities backed 8 more Teochew screenings on top of 10 initial showings and left the door open to additional runs.
Singapore's Ministry of Digital Development and Information said June 22 it will use a more flexible process for cinema applications to screen dialect films, after debate over the Teochew-language movie "Dear You." The ministry said the Infocomm Media Development Authority had already supported eight additional Teochew screenings, adding to 10 initial showings, and would consider more if distributor Clover Films applies. The dispute began after IMDA limited the film's general release to a Mandarin-dubbed version, citing Singapore's bilingual policy and Mandarin's role among Chinese Singaporeans. Golden Village's extra Teochew screenings from June 25 to 29 sold out within 1½ hours after tickets went on sale June 22.