Number 1 and Diverse Family Formation: Negotiating lgbtiq+ Identities and Rewriting Tradition in Sinophone Singapore and Taiwan

Abstract The Singaporean film Number 1 explores lgbtiq + identity and has gained widespread popularity, leading to plans for a sequel. This article is the first academic discussion of the film, examining the different treatments of lgbtiq + individuals in Taiwan, Singapore, and China before and after the film’s release. It critically reflects on the limitations and errors of the China-centric imagination of ethnic Chinese queer culture. By extending the film’s use of Taiwanese actors, songs, and its concept of diverse family formation, the article highlights the film’s deep connection to Taiwan and addresses place-based production in Sinophone discourse. The cultural symbolism in the movie, such as using local terms like a guan instead of tongzhi and replacing lip-syncing with actual singing, showcases the efforts of Singaporean cultural workers to assert their voice. The film’s popularity underscores its significant impact on social attitudes and potential to influence positive change across Chinese-speaking societies.