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The much-anticipated romantic drama "Herstory" premiered at the 2024 China Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Xiamen, Fujian province, on Nov. 14, examining contemporary views on love and womanhood.

A still from "Herstory." [Photo courtesy of Maxtimes Culture]

Written and directed by Shao Yihui, the film began as a sequel to her critically acclaimed 2021 Shanghai-dialect romance "B for Busy" but evolved into a parallel narrative. The film maintains its predecessor's exploration of love and relationships while delivering sharp, humorous commentary in the vein of Woody Allen.

Set in Shanghai, this romantic comedy follows a single mother's journey through personal growth and new relationships after relocating. She finds support from a distinctly different neighbor as they help each other through tough times. Drawing parallels to "Barbie" (2023), the film examines modern relationships through a contemporary female lens while exploring nuanced reflections on gender-related issues.

"Herstory" began advanced screenings on Nov. 9, earning critical acclaim for its writing, direction and performances. Critics have dubbed it one of Chinese cinema's most compelling romances this year. The film opened the festival's domestic showcase.

At the premiere, Song Jia, who plays the single mother, said this was her first opportunity to portray a capable, modern female character who seems able to do everything. "But she still has her confusion and vulnerability. Even the term 'independent woman' can be a kind of shackle for her," Song said.

"But that's why she is vivid and charismatic. She grows through her neighbor's guidance and gradually reconciles with herself," she added. "I love this role. It shows a woman's possibilities and lets me engage in conversation with contemporary women."

Zhong Chuxi, who plays the neighbor, described her character as having a "sober love brain" and capacity for generosity. "In today's society, people sometimes weigh their contributions in relationships as though the person who gives more is somehow lower in the relationship's hierarchy. However, that isn't true. Whether in friendship or love, if you're brave enough to give and find joy in it, that's what matters," Zhong said.

Director Shao said she wrote "Herstory" to encourage genuine dialogue between men and women through nuanced character development and diverse perspectives. "Even though our conversations may not always reach the depths of each other's hearts," she stated, hoping the film would encourage viewers to reevaluate themselves or their friends of the opposite sex and enhance communication across gender lines.

She highlighted another key female role: the single mother's daughter, played by Zeng Mumei, a child star and the daughter of renowned Chinese actor Mei Ting and cinematographer Zeng Jian. Shao said certain messages carry more weight when delivered by a child, who naturally speaks without gender stereotypes. Many of her own thoughts, she noted, are expressed and delivered through Zeng's character.

Actor Mark Chao, who plays the ex-husband, attended the premiere and said he found the script's perspective intriguing and forward-thinking, likening his role to Ken in "Barbie." "I've never played an ex-husband before; it feels like quite a breakthrough," Chao said with a laugh. "I'm privileged to have the opportunity to challenge myself with a character who combines sincerity with unreliability, allowing me to explore new territory as an actor."

Director Shao Yihui (first from left) and the cast of "Herstory" at the film's premiere during the China Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in Xiamen, Fujian province, Nov. 14, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Maxtimes Culture]

"Herstory" will be released nationwide on Nov. 22.