Overview: Singapore CNY cinema in 2026
For families gathering after a round of prosperity yusheng and mahjong, Singapore’s Chinese New Year season in 2026 brings a fresh slate of local films promising warmth, humor, and a touch of nostalgia. This year’s celebrations spotlight familiar faces in homegrown productions, with three standout titles featuring noted Singaporean stars Richie Koh, Xixi Lim, and veteran director-actor Jack Neo. Here’s what to expect and where to watch.
Liang Po Po: The Comeback
Leading the lineup is Liang Po Po: The Comeback, a family-friendly comedy that revisits a beloved elder figure in contemporary Singaporean life. The film follows a clan navigating multigenerational quirks, modern tech traps, and heartwarming traditions as they welcome the New Year. Richie Koh headlines the cast alongside Xixi Lim, delivering a dynamic pairing of wit and warmth that resonates with audiences who grew up with Clifford-like family dynamics and a touch of street-smart humor. Expect playful banter, clever situational gags, and a gentle message about togetherness during the festive season.
Why it appeals to CNY crowds
The film leans into the classic CNY mood—family reunions, shared meals, and the glow of new beginnings—while injecting modern Singaporean life into its jokes. It balances light satire with sentimental moments, making it accessible for all ages. The ensemble cast, anchored by Koh and Lim, brings relatable energy that mirrors real-life family interactions during the holidays.
Other must-watch titles
In addition to Liang Po Po: The Comeback, 2026’s Sin-
Gorean cinema lineup features two more films that spotlight local talents and the Singaporean sense of humor that fans crave during the New Year period.
Film 2: A Bright Lantern
A Bright Lantern centers on a community lantern-making project that rekindles old friendships and sparks new romances as families prepare for the New Year. Xixi Lim brings charm and relatability to a role that balances entrepreneurial drive with parental warmth, while Jack Neo adds his signature stamp with situational humor rooted in everyday Singaporean life. The film celebrates resilience, intergenerational bonds, and the infectious energy of the festive season.
Film 3: Home, Hopes & Hokkien Mee
Home, Hopes & Hokkien Mee is a comfort-food comedy-drama that blends iconic local dishes with stories of aspiration and community. The narrative threads together characters navigating work, school, and family expectations as the city reedits its own sense of belonging at the start of a new lunar year. Expect flavorful dialogue, familiar neighbourhood settings, and a satisfying payoff that aligns with the New Year’s themes of renewal and gratitude.
Where to watch and when
Moviegoers in Singapore can expect a wide rollout in cinemas across the city-state, including major multiplexes and neighborhood cinemas that often host CNY-themed premieres. Streaming platforms may follow, offering access to the titles after the theatrical window. If you’re planning a family movie night after the yusheng and mahjong, these films provide a balanced mix of humor, heart, and local flavor that’s quintessentially Singaporean.
Why this slate matters for local cinema
2026 marks a moment of consolidation for Singapore’s Chinese New Year film tradition. By featuring well-known faces like Richie Koh, Xixi Lim, and Jack Neo, the lineup leverages star power to draw families into cinemas while supporting fresh storytelling from homegrown writers and directors. The films’ emphasis on community, tradition, and humor mirrors the cultural season and reinforces Singapore’s identity on screen.
Final thoughts
As families prepare to share a joyous New Year, Singapore’s CNY film slate for 2026 offers something for everyone—from nostalgic comedies to heartwarming stories about home and hope. With a strong cast and writers who understand the pulse of local audiences, these titles promise entertainment that complements the year’s earliest celebrations.
