Hollywood icon Lucy Liu was honoured at the Belfast Film Festival with the prestigious Réalta Award for her film Rosemead. The award recognises actors and filmmakers who contribute positively through their work.
Attending the festival in Belfast, Liu expressed admiration for the local community, describing the people as “warm and welcoming.” During her stay, she enjoyed traditional foods like soda bread and potato bread but declined black pudding.
“It’s just an honour to be here and to celebrate all of the art and the culture the festival has brought to the community,” Liu told BBC News NI.
Liu filmed the action comedy Old Guy in Northern Ireland in 2023, spending a month there. She described the experience as positive, mentioning she formed “really lovely friends” during her time in the region.
Rosemead had its Irish premiere at the festival. The film explores the relationship between a terminally ill mother and her teenage son who suffers from schizophrenia. Liu not only starred in the film but also produced it, deepening her engagement with the story.
The film “spotlights mental health and family relationships,” a theme that Liu finds meaningful.
Author’s summary: Lucy Liu was recognised at the Belfast Film Festival for her powerful film Rosemead, highlighting mental health and earning praise for her connection to Northern Ireland’s community and culture.