Chinese Feminist Comedy ‘Her Story’ on Course for U.S., International Releases: ‘Women’s Voices and Stories Are Becoming More Prominent’ (EXCLUSIVE)

As a film enthusiast with a soft spot for stories that resonate deeply, I am eagerly anticipating the international release of ‘Her Story.’ Having grown up in China and witnessed the evolving landscape of women’s narratives in our cinema, it’s heartening to see films like this gaining prominence.


The comedy-drama film “Her Story,” primarily focused on a female viewpoint and hailing from Mainland China, is slated for global releases in significant regions starting this month. This rollout coincides with its broad debut in China.

The movie, titled “B For Busy,” is helmed by director Shao Yihui. This filmmaker gained recognition with her 2021 release. The narrative unfolds at a rapid pace, revolving around two primary characters: one, a single mom recently out of work, and the other, a seemingly ordinary new neighbor who harbors hidden struggles. As their friendship blossoms, they confront a myriad of relationship hurdles, such as an abusive ex-spouse and potential new love interests.

This production, spearheaded by actors Song Jia, Elaine Zhong, Zhang Yu, Mark Chao, Ren Bin, Zeng Mumei, Zhang Chi, and Zhou Yemang, is under the direction of Maxtimes Pictures.

In regions beyond Mainland China, the rights for a particular project have been acquired by Tiger Pictures Entertainment. This company plans to employ a dual approach where they will manage the film’s distribution in certain areas, while leasing the rights to other territories.

After a broad launch in China on November 22 by Taopiaopiao Film and Television Culture, Tiger Pictures plans to debut “Her Story” in the United States, Hong Kong, and Macau on November 28, and in the U.K. on November 29.

The movie rights have been granted to Little Monster Entertainment for a screening on November 28 in Australia and New Zealand. Golden Village in Singapore has planned a showing on the same date, while Mega Films Distribution in Malaysia has slated the release for December 8.

Based on early signs from Chinese ticket sales platforms like Maoyan and Taopiaopiao, it seems we’re looking at a broad release in China. There’s also speculation that our movie might come in second place on its opening day, with “Gladiator 2” potentially taking the top spot.

In the footsteps of its acclaimed forerunner, ‘Her Story’ delves into women’s lives with a contemporary, enlightening, and intellectually stimulating perspective. Stepping beyond the traditional storytelling confines often found in romantic comedies, it showcases characters that defy stereotypes, both male and female. Following early screenings, viewers have compared it to a modern adaptation of ‘Barbie’ from China, as shared by a representative from Tiger Pictures with EbMaster.

In the movie ‘B’, starring Xu Zheng and Ma Yili, we follow a humorous love story between two divorced individuals. Their former spouses and students create amusing predicaments, adding an element of comedy to the narrative.

Feminism is a tricky subject for Chinese media. While official policy is supportive of women’s advancement, economic and structural realities mean that China remains significantly patriarchal. And Chinese authorities frown on any kind of protest initiative, such as the #MeToo movement that flourished in the west and may have briefly boosted “Barbie” during its July 2023 release.

Shao remains unfazed. “This movie resonates strongly with China’s tech-savvy youth and internet community. It tackles contemporary themes such as romantic relationships, menstrual taboos, women’s roles within families, and the importance of consent in sexual conduct. Essentially, it’s a rallying cry to stop adhering to their traditional norms,” she expressed.

‘Her Story’ deviates from typical romantic film stereotypes, steering clear of the ‘manic pixie dream girl,’ a female character designed according to male ideals, as well as ‘machisma,’ which may seem to challenge patriarchy but still relies on it. Instead, it presents women in a more genuine, multi-faceted manner.

The success at the box office appears to favor her. This year’s highest-earning film in China, titled “Yolo,” is a movie that delves into themes of body image and self-realization. It was penned, directed, and acted by Jia Ling, earning an impressive RMB3.45 billion ($470 million). Sony Pictures has even expressed interest in remaking it for an English-speaking audience.

As more focus is placed on women’s narratives, it’s clear that the Chinese entertainment industry is undergoing significant changes, with more and more women’s tales and perspectives taking center stage,” Tiger Pictures stated.

As an ardent admirer, I’m thrilled to share that the visionary behind ‘B’, Director Shao Yihui, is steering ‘Her Story’ – a witty, feminist comedy-drama – towards both Chinese and global screenings. (EXCLUSIVE)

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2024-11-14 15:17