Lucy Liu Shines in Emotional 'Rosemead' Trailer
Rosemead, featuring Lucy Liu, opens in theaters on December 5. PEOPLE presents an exclusive trailer revealing Liu’s powerful portrayal of Irene, a mother struggling after her teenage son’s schizophrenia diagnosis. Directed by Eric Lin and inspired by a 2017 Los Angeles Times article, the film is based on a true story.
A Harrowing True Story
The movie recounts the difficult journey of a Chinese American mother and her son, played by Liu and Lawrence Shou. Liu takes on a deeply dramatic role as Irene, who faces extraordinary challenges.
“This isn't going to just go away like some cold. He needs to learn to live with it. You both do.”
The film explores Irene’s desperate decisions to protect her troubled son Joe as his condition worsens. Faced with impossible choices, she must decide how far she is willing to go and what sacrifices she will make.
Critical Acclaim
Since premiering at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, Rosemead has earned Liu multiple film festival awards, showcasing her talent in an intense and emotional performance.
Background
The screenplay, adapted by Marilyn Fu from Frank Shyong’s original Los Angeles Times article, reveals the story of a terminally ill mother confronting her son's schizophrenia diagnosis and the heartbreaking decisions she faces.
Synopsis Quote
“An ailing woman who takes drastic measures to protect her troubled teenage son.”
The trailer captures the weight of the story, emphasizing the enduring impact of mental illness and the fierce love that drives Irene’s actions.
Author’s summary: Lucy Liu delivers a standout performance in Rosemead, a poignant film about a mother’s struggle with her son’s schizophrenia, based on a deeply moving true story.