100-Year-Old Star Shines at Shanghai Film Fest

Centenarian actress Lisa Lu graced a special screening of the 1968 Chinese-language film "The Arch" at the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival. Lu, who is 100 years old by traditional Chinese reckoning, made a surprise appearance, drawing significant applause.

"The Arch," a landmark of arthouse cinema, was the directorial debut of Hong Kong filmmaker Cecile Tang Shu Shuen. The film draws inspiration from traditional Chinese poetry and painting for its visual style, with restrained cinematography establishing it as a benchmark. Lu recalled volunteering for her role after the initial casting fell through, expressing gratitude for the opportunity.

Lu praised the film's director for her cultural literacy and the breathtaking visuals, also highlighting the impactful score by Lui Tsun-Yuen. The film itself underwent a full 4K restoration in 2025 and was previously screened at the 78th Cannes Film Festival as part of Cannes Classics.

This Shanghai honor adds to a series of recent accolades for Lu. Last year, she became the oldest person to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. International audiences may also recognize her from the 2018 film "Crazy Rich Asians."