Lucy Liu Wows in Emotional 'Rosemead' Trailer: 'Audiences Have Never Seen Her in a Role Like This' (Exclusive)

Lucy Liu Stars in Emotional 'Rosemead' Trailer

Rosemead, featuring Lucy Liu, hits theaters on December 5. PEOPLE exclusively reveals the trailer, showcasing Liu as Irene, a mother grappling with her teenage son's schizophrenia diagnosis.

Film Background and Story

The film, directed by Eric Lin and adapted by Marilyn Fu from a 2017 Los Angeles Times article, is based on a true story of a Chinese American mother and her son. Lucy Liu, 56, portrays Irene, while Lawrence Shou plays her son Joe.

Plot and Themes

The movie explores the challenges Irene faces as she tries to protect Joe amid his growing struggles with schizophrenia. A synopsis describes her as “an ailing woman who takes drastic measures to protect her troubled teenage son.” As Joe's “dark obsessions grow and time runs out, she is forced to make impossible choices: how far will she go and what is she willing to sacrifice?”

“This isn't going to just go away like some cold. He needs to learn to live with it. You both do.”

This line from a doctor, featured in the trailer, echoes the film’s poignant portrayal of coping with mental illness.

Awards and Reception

Since premiering at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, Rosemead has earned Lucy Liu multiple film festival awards for her powerful performance.

“Audiences have never seen her in a role like this.”

This exclusive preview highlights Liu’s compelling and transformative role as Irene.

Author's summary: Lucy Liu delivers a profound and award-winning portrayal of a mother confronting her son’s schizophrenia in Rosemead, a moving drama inspired by true events.

more

People.com People.com — 2025-11-07

More News