Lucy Liu is receiving critical acclaim for her role in the upcoming family drama Rosemead, which is set to debut in select theaters in the United States. The film, directed by Eric Lin, will premiere in New York on December 5, 2023, followed by a release in Los Angeles on December 12, 2023. Liu plays the character Irene, a single mother grappling with significant personal challenges as her son, Joe, faces a disturbing descent into delusions.
In a newly released sneak peek of Rosemead, Irene shares a meal with her son when a tense conversation takes a troubling turn. Joe insists he heard his mother calling for him from the school hallway, even though she was at work. This moment of conflict escalates as Joe angrily throws his chopsticks and storms off, leaving Irene to ponder her son’s increasingly unstable reality. This role marks a notable shift for Liu, known for her iconic performances in action films such as Charlie’s Angels and Kill Bill, as well as her roles in television series like Ally McBeal and Elementary.
Exploring Themes of Family and Desperation
The narrative of Rosemead centers on Irene, whose health is deteriorating while she struggles to care for her son. As Joe’s mental state declines, Irene faces the daunting task of preparing for a future where she may no longer be able to protect him. The film tackles themes of family, isolation, and the lengths a parent will go to safeguard their child. As Irene navigates her own declining health and the challenges presented by her insular Chinese-American community, she may resort to desperate measures to help her son.
The film features a talented cast alongside Liu, including Orion Lee, Jennifer Lim, Madison Hu, and James Chen. The screenplay was penned by Marilyn Fu, who is also known for her work on the series The Copenhagen Test.
A Long Journey to the Screen
“It has been a labor of love, and I’m excited for audiences to experience this story,” said Liu, who also serves as an executive producer on the project.
Liu’s involvement in Rosemead extends beyond her acting role; she has been instrumental in bringing the film to fruition over a period of seven years. The film first premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival earlier this year, receiving positive reviews for its poignant storytelling and strong performances.
As anticipation builds for the film’s release, audiences can look forward to a gripping exploration of motherhood, mental health, and the complexities of familial love. Rosemead promises to be a significant addition to Liu’s already impressive body of work, showcasing her range as an actress in a deeply emotional and challenging role.
