The recent box office triumph of Her Story, a Chinese comedy helmed by a woman and featuring an all-female cast, has sparked significant discussions. This movie has been dubbed China's answer to Barbie, captivating audiences and critics alike. Shao Yihui's second feature film revolves around a newly unemployed single mother with a daughter and their young female neighbor as they navigate the challenges and experiences of being women in Shanghai. In just under two weeks, it has amassed over 300 million yuan (US$41m), with projections suggesting it could reach 600 million yuan, making it a strong contender for the highest-grossing film of the year in China. Currently, that title belongs to YOLO, another female-led comedy directed by a woman. This success indicates a growing trend in China where films by women, centered around female experiences, are achieving greater commercial success.

Unlock the Feminist Power of Her Story at the Box Office

Exploring the Story and Its Impact

Her Story takes us on a journey through the lives of its characters. The newly unemployed single mother, with her daughter by her side, faces numerous difficulties. Their interactions with the young female neighbor add depth and complexity to the narrative. As they explore their experiences, we see the struggles and joys of women in Shanghai. This film goes beyond just being a comedy; it delves into the heart of women's lives and issues.The Easter eggs scattered throughout the film have also become a topic of great interest. Fans refer to these as feminist references, with main characters cosplaying as feminist icons like American jurist Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. Quoting Japanese feminist and sociologist Chizuko Ueno and American activist Gloria Steinem adds another layer of meaning. These Easter eggs have sparked a renewed enthusiasm among fans, leading them to rewatch the film and engage in discussions about gender.

The Global Appeal and Impact

The success of Her Story is not limited to China. It has also made an impact in the global Chinese diaspora community, with sold-out screenings in the US, UK, and Australia. Mia Wang, a 29-year-old who saw the film in Australia, expressed her support for Chinese female directors. She believes that films created by women are easier for her to resonate with, highlighting the need for more Chinese female creators in the film industry.This trend is part of a global movement, as stated by Zeng Hong, assistant professor for the Academy of Film at Hong Kong Baptist University. Social media has played a crucial role in allowing gender discussions to reach a wide audience, combining activism with consumer behavior. On Xiaohongshu, a Chinese social media platform similar to Instagram, there are over 13 million posts containing the keywords "Her Story Easter egg", further demonstrating the film's popularity and influence.

The Role of the "She Economy"

Researchers believe that the ascendance of Chinese women's purchasing power, or the "she economy", is one of the key drivers behind the success of recent female-led films. As female audiences become a quality demographic, the Chinese film industry is now making efforts to cater to them. This leads to more opportunities for female directors in a traditionally male-dominated industry. The recognition of female purchasing power gives women more voices in how their stories are told, which will have a lasting impact on the Chinese film industry.In conclusion, Her Story is not just a box office success but a powerful statement about women's experiences and perspectives in Chinese cinema. It has opened up new avenues for female directors and sparked important conversations about gender. As this trend continues to grow, we can expect to see more outstanding films by women in the future.