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

Lucy Liu Stuns in Emotional Trailer for "Rosemead"

Rosemead, starring Lucy Liu, is set to release in theaters on December 5. PEOPLE features an exclusive trailer offering a rare glimpse of Liu as Irene, a mother grappling with her teenage son's schizophrenia diagnosis.

Story Background and Production

The film, directed by Eric Lin and adapted by Marilyn Fu, is based on a true story originally reported in a 2017 Los Angeles Times article by Frank Shyong. It portrays the intense struggles of a Chinese American mother and her son, Joe, portrayed by Liu and Lawrence Shou.

Character and Plot Overview

Liu, 56, delivers a powerful performance as Irene, an ailing mother pushed to extreme measures to protect her son. The film explores the emotional and difficult decisions she faces as Joe’s dark obsessions intensify.

“As his 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?”

True Story Inspiration

The original article recounts the story of a terminally ill mother who confronted the devastating challenge of her son's schizophrenia diagnosis and made a heartbreaking decision.

Trailer Highlight

In the upcoming trailer, a doctor’s somber words emphasize the reality faced by the family:

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

Accolades

Since its premiere at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival, Rosemead has earned multiple film festival awards, highlighting its emotional impact and strong performances.

Author's summary: Lucy Liu delivers a moving portrayal of a mother's fierce love and sacrifice in Rosemead, illuminating the harsh realities of mental illness within a family.

People.com — 2025-11-07