Lucy Liu Discusses ‘Rosemead’ and Embracing Mandarin Again on NPR
Lucy Liu, renowned for her roles in acclaimed films and television series, recently shared her journey of reconnecting with her cultural roots and the Mandarin language in her new film, Rosemead. The movie explores complex themes of Asian American identity and mental health.
Returning to Mandarin in ‘Rosemead’
In Rosemead, Liu plays a mother facing a terminal illness while dealing with her teenage son’s severe mental health struggles. This character, named Irene, communicates with her son in Mandarin, allowing Liu to reconnect with her childhood language. “I felt such a great depth of tenderness,” she notes about using Mandarin on screen.
The film is inspired by true events and highlights the often stigmatized issues surrounding mental health within the Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. Liu emphasizes the need to address these topics openly to foster understanding across different cultures.
Cultural Stigma and Mental Health
Liu points out that within many communities, including her own, there exists a cultural stigma against seeking mental health services. She believes this aversion often stems from fear of judgment. “There’s a lot of judgment within the community,” she explains.
Background and Career Reflections
Growing up in Queens as the child of Chinese immigrants, Liu spoke Mandarin at home and didn’t learn English until age five. She recalls feeling isolated when she only saw white actors in media, which made her realize the importance of representation. Liu acknowledged the significant impact that seeing an Asian actor in an advertisement had on her aspirations for an acting career.
Experiencing Rejection
- Liu has faced numerous rejections in her career, often due to the limited opportunities available for Asian actors.
- She contrasts her experiences with those of her white counterparts, highlighting the discrepancies in audition opportunities.
- Despite these challenges, Liu’s resilience allowed her to refine her craft in the industry.
Understanding Immigrant Dynamics
Liu also explored the dynamic between immigrant parents and their children. She shared how children often become translators and advocates for their parents, creating a unique role reversal. “It really changes the dynamic of yourself and your parents,” she said, emphasizing the complexity of such relationships.
Embracing Cultural Identity
Reflecting on her college years, Liu expressed her initial reluctance towards her Chinese heritage. However, she later chose to major in Asian languages and cultures, allowing her to embrace her identity fully. “It was a choice,” she remarked, signifying the importance of personal agency in shaping her cultural understanding.
Through her work in Rosemead, Lucy Liu aims to shed light on significant cultural conversations, while simultaneously revitalizing her connection to Mandarin and her family’s heritage. The film not only serves as a portrayal of personal struggles but also as a reminder of the importance of open dialogue regarding mental health in marginalized communities.
