Young Mom 2

Hi, Mom is a 2021 Chinese comedy film that marks the directorial debut of Jia Ling, who also stars in the movie alongside Zhang Xiaofei, Shen Teng, and Chen He. This film tells a touching, semi-autobiographical story about a young woman named Jia Xiaoling who, after losing her mother in a tragic accident in 2001, finds herself transported back to 1981. There, she forges a close friendship with her mother and explores themes of familial love and maternal bonds.

Released on 12 February 2021, which coincided with the Chinese New Year, the film quickly caught the attention of audiences, grossing over US$841 million at the box office. This achievement made it the third-highest-grossing film of 2021 and the highest-grossing film directed by a solo female filmmaker until it was surpassed by Barbie in 2023.

The narrative of Hi, Mom explores the deep connections between mothers and daughters. After her mother is fatally injured in a car accident, Jia Xiaoling is overcome with grief and wishes she could have done more for her mother. When she is magically sent back to the past, she seizes the opportunity to make her mother happy by introducing her to a potential husband, hoping to create a better life than what she had the first time around.

The film’s emotional depth has resonated with many viewers, drawing praise for its authentic portrayal of relationships and settings from the 1980s. It has been recognized not only for its box office success but also for its ability to touch hearts, with many audience members reportedly moved to tears.

• Jia Ling as Jia Xiaoling
• Zhang Xiaofei as Li Huanying
• Shen Teng as Shen Guanglin
• Chen He as Leng Te

Jia Ling spent over three years working on the script in collaboration with her team, drawing inspiration from her own experiences with her mother, who passed away in 2001. The film adapts a comedy sketch that Jia performed in 2016, further enriching the story with personal touches.

After its release, Hi, Mom received predominantly positive reviews, with viewers rating it highly on various platforms. Critics have highlighted its emotional resonance, especially during the Chinese New Year when many people were unable to visit their families due to the ongoing pandemic. The film has become a significant cultural touchstone, representing the importance of family ties during challenging times.

As the film continues to perform well, it has not only broken box office records but has also set a precedent for future female directors in the industry. Its heartfelt message and relatable themes have made it a beloved feature in contemporary cinema.