Is hit indie film Dear You propaganda? Don’t be disrespectful, Chinese media says

Chinese state media is defending the indie film 'Dear You' against accusations that it serves as propaganda to influence the Chinese diaspora. The film explores themes of migration and heritage, while critics argue it is a tool for soft-power influence.
Why it matters
Illustrates the intersection of cinema, soft power, and geopolitical tensions regarding cultural influence in Southeast Asia.
Beijing is aggressively defending the box office smash from claims it is a tool to boost influence over the Chinese diaspora
The article reports on the controversy by presenting both the criticism and the state media's defense.
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