What is the true story behind the film Rosemead?

Rosemead is based on a 2017 Los Angeles Times article that detailed the story of a terminally ill mother who made a tragic choice in dealing with her son's schizophrenia diagnosis.

How does actress Liu transform in her role as Irene in Rosemead?

Liu, known for her iconic roles, completely transforms herself to portray Irene, an ailing Chinese American mother who takes drastic measures to protect her troubled teenage son. The director says audiences have never seen Liu in a role like this before.

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Terminally Ill Mother's Heartbreaking Choice to Protect Troubled Son

Q: What impossible choices does Irene face in Rosemead?

As her son Joe's dark obsessions grow and time runs out, Irene is forced to make impossible choices: how far will she go and what is she willing to sacrifice to help her son with schizophrenia?

6 Nov

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Summary

Rosemead based on true story from 2017 LA Times article
Actress Liu plays ailing mother who takes drastic steps for her son
Film explores impossible choices and sacrifices of a schizophrenia diagnosis

Terminally Ill Mother's Heartbreaking Choice to Protect Troubled Son

Rosemead, a 2025 Tribeca Film Festival premiere, is a gripping drama based on a true story detailed in a 2017 Los Angeles Times article. Directed by Eric Lin and adapted by Marilyn Fu, the film follows Irene, a struggling Chinese American mother played by acclaimed actress Liu. Irene is an ailing woman who takes drastic measures to protect her troubled teenage son Joe, portrayed by Lawrence Shou.

As Joe's dark obsessions grow and time runs out, Irene is forced to make impossible choices: how far will she go and what is she willing to sacrifice to help her son? The film explores the heartbreaking realities of a schizophrenia diagnosis and the desperate measures a parent may take to shield their child. Liu, who has earned multiple film festival awards for her performance, brings a raw, emotional depth to the role, drawing from her own childhood experiences speaking Mandarin.