Dear reader,

The Chinese indie movie Dear You has come under a propaganda cloud in Singapore for its support from Beijing's United Front Work Department. Critics say that Beijing is trying to play up ties to the Chinese diaspora to win foreign friends and influence. The film may be open to interpretation abroad, but the unexpected hit does have one clear thing to say to the struggling movie industry at home – the way to win back audiences is through well-told personal stories.

For a deep dive into Hong Kong's future, please read the SCMP editor-in-chief's opinion series.

The Big Picture

Deal or no deal?
The US and Iran sign an MOU to resolve their war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

• Why it matters: it offers a glimmer of hope for the region but talks are continuing and Trump has not ruled out a return to military operations
• So, who is the bigger winner and how long will a peace deal last?
• Meanwhile, an American watchdog casts doubt on the US' ability to win a war with China
• And, Beijing maps out new rules for new frontiers

Attention!
The PLA's top graft-buster calls on the military to renew its political outlook and loyalty to the Communist Party.

• Why it matters: China is counting down to the PLA centenary and a reshuffle in the party's top ranks next year
• So, what do Xi's thoughts on party building mean?
• Meanwhile, some advice on telling compelling stories about Tibet

And the winner is...

China's support for Cabo Verde on the way to the archipelago's shock World Cup draw with Spain

Direct Quote

"There seems to be little trust between Paris and Berlin, and if that's not happening, you go case by case, and China is not a case-by-case issue. China is a climate change in trade."

Joerg Wuttke, former chairman of the EU's top business lobby in China, discusses the division among EU members on China policy