China’s film “Her Story” has emerged as a box-office sensation, captivating audiences and sparking discussions about gender dynamics in contemporary Chinese society. Since its release on November 22, 2024, the film has amassed over 680 million yuan ($93 million), topping mainland China’s charts for 17 consecutive days. The film, directed by Shao Yihui, is celebrated for its humorous yet poignant critique of gender norms, resonating with many viewers while also attracting criticism from others, particularly men on Chinese social media.
“Her Story” features a series of vignettes that spotlight contemporary gender issues in China. A young girl addresses the stigma around menstruation in a family setting, proclaiming, ‘more than half the world’s population bleeds.’ Meanwhile, male characters attempt to woo a woman by flaunting their knowledge of feminist literature. These scenes, along with others like a woman confronting a stalker, have sparked conversations, especially amongst female audiences who liken the film to China’s version of ‘Barbie.’
On Douban, China’s primary movie review site, “Her Story” boasts a high rating of 9.1 out of 10, with users praising its unflinching portrayal of ‘awakened’ womanhood and deft social commentary delivered with humor. Despite the film’s success, it has also drawn ire from some men who accuse it of inciting ‘gender antagonism.’ This backlash highlights the ongoing tension regarding feminist discourse in China, a country where the #MeToo movement has faced significant pushback from authorities and public figures.
Director Shao Yihui crafted “Her Story” around three women living in Shanghai: a single mother, her precocious daughter, and a new neighbor who is a young singer. The film weaves together their lives, offering a lens into the experiences and struggles of women in modern China. Viewers like He Zeyu, who has watched the movie multiple times, find a personal connection through its narrative, which emphasizes female empowerment without simply rehashing old struggles.
Critics particularly applaud the film’s subtle critique of contemporary issues beyond gender, such as the pandemic-era lockdowns and the decline of journalism. The film cleverly integrates these themes with symbolic imagery, like an elephant statue in a living room, which alludes to Shanghai’s Covid lockdown. For many, these layers add depth and emotional resonance, demonstrating the film’s careful balance of humor and deeper reflection.
Despite its achievements, “Her Story” has faced negative comments on platforms like Hupu, where it is rated poorly by male-dominated audiences. Critics there charged the film with ‘demeaning men,’ reflecting a broader cultural divide in gender perceptions. However, viewers like Wang Rui, who enjoyed the film’s nuanced portrayal of gender, argued against its labeling as strictly feminist, pointing out the movie’s appeal to broader audiences.
The controversy around “Her Story” echoes similar reactions from Chinese internet users to feminist figures like comedian Yang Li, who has been criticized for her humor about men’s insecurities. Lately, online campaigns against such figures have intensified, underscoring a continued resistance to feminist narratives in China.
Shao Yihui, in discussing the film, emphasized the liberating potential of feminism for both women and men. She suggested that understanding the root causes of gender inequality could lead to a more collaborative stance between genders in China’s cultural landscape.
“Her Story” stands as a notable cinematic work, deftly combining humor with a bold exploration of gender norms in China. While it has found widespread acclaim for its insightful portrayal of contemporary women’s issues, it also highlights the persistent societal challenges in addressing gender equality. The film not only entertains but also encourages a dialogue about the evolving roles of women and men in Chinese society.
