Archive · 8 Aug 2025
‘The Dating Game’ Explores Modern Romance in China
Imagine a movie called 'The Dating Game' about men in China who are trying to find wives.
Because there are many more men than women, it's hard for them.
The movie shows them going to a special class to learn how to attract women.
They get advice from a dating coach, Hao, who teaches them things like how to look good online.
The movie is funny and also shows the men's feelings.
It has been shown at many film festivals and people seem to really like it.
Documentary 'The Dating Game' explores Chinese men seeking wives amid a gender imbalance.
The film follows men attending a dating camp led by coach Hao, who teaches seduction techniques.
The trailer debuted on August 8th, a date chosen for its auspicious meaning in Chinese culture.
Director Violet Du Feng highlights the film's balance of humor and poignancy.
The documentary has received accolades at film festivals worldwide, including Sundance.
- Who
- The film follows Chinese men, a dating coach named Hao, and is directed by Violet Du Feng.
- What
- Documentary 'The Dating Game' about Chinese men seeking wives in a society with a gender imbalance.
- When
- The film premiered at Sundance in January 2025. The trailer was released on August 8th, 2025. The film opens in UK cinemas on September 19 and in the US on October 10, 2025.
- Where
- The documentary focuses on men in China and has been shown at film festivals around the world including the UK, US, and Canada.
- Why
- The film explores the challenges faced by Chinese men in finding partners due to a significant gender imbalance.
Dating Coach's Methods
Director's Perspective
Dating Tactics
Dating Coach's Methods
Hao attempts to help the men find a mate by teaching them modern techniques and altering their image.
Director's Perspective
The director suggests the techniques are not necessarily beneficial.
- Director
- Violet Du Feng
- Release Dates
- UK: September 19, 2025; US: October 10, 2025
- Production Companies
- Fish+Bear Pictures, Violet Films
- Premiere
- Sundance Film Festival, January 2025
- Film's Subject
- Chinese men navigating dating in a gender-imbalanced society
- Dating Coach
- Hao
- Key Themes
- Seduction, social issues, cultural traditions, relationships