Lucy Liu Shines in Emotional 'Rosemead' Trailer
Rosemead, starring Lucy Liu, premieres in theaters on December 5. PEOPLE offers an exclusive trailer revealing Liu in a powerful role as Irene, a mother grappling with her teenage son's schizophrenia diagnosis.
Film Background and Story
Directed by Eric Lin and adapted by Marilyn Fu from a 2017 Los Angeles Times article, Rosemead portrays a Chinese American mother and son's intense struggle. Liu, 56, co-stars alongside Lawrence Shou, bringing to life a harrowing true story that was first reported by journalist Frank Shyong.
Plot Synopsis
Liu plays Irene, described as an "ailing woman who takes drastic measures to protect her troubled teenage son," Joe. The story follows their fight as Joe’s dark obsessions deepen, forcing Irene into impossible decisions about how far she will go and what she is 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 the trailer captures a doctor's stark warning about Joe's condition, emphasizing the enduring challenge of schizophrenia.
Reception and Awards
Since its premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, Rosemead has garnered multiple film festival awards, highlighting Liu’s transformative performance and the moving narrative.
Film Themes
- Mental health struggles within an immigrant family
- The sacrifices parents make for their children
- The complexity of living with chronic illness
Author’s summary: Lucy Liu delivers a profoundly emotional performance in Rosemead, shedding light on the painful realities faced by families confronting mental illness.