Hollywood icon Lucy Liu has been recognised at the Belfast Film Festival, receiving the prestigious Réalta Award for her latest film Rosemead. The honour celebrates actors and filmmakers who use their craft for the greater good – a fitting tribute to Liu, whose new work spotlights mental health and family relationships.
Attending the festival in Northern Ireland’s capital, the Charlie’s Angels and Kill Bill star spoke fondly of Belfast’s people, calling them “warm and welcoming.” Liu shared that soda bread and potato bread were on her menu during her stay, though she passed on black pudding.
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“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,” she told BBC News NI.
Liu, who spent a month in Northern Ireland in 2023 filming the action comedy Old Guy, said she had “a great working experience” and made “really lovely friends” while in the region.
Her film Rosemead, which had its Irish premiere at the festival, tells the story of a terminally ill mother and her schizophrenic teenage son. Beyond starring in the project, Liu also served as producer – a role she says has deepened her connection to storytelling.
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“I don’t think there can be enough conversations about mental health,” she said.”I do think that right now it is something that people are talking about more and more, especially on social media which is a great thing. I think it shouldn’t be something that should be shrouded in shame and that’s what I want to make sure this movie brings to light.
On the producing process, Liu added: “I think being involved as a producer imburses you completely in the project and so, to me, that is a really good way to start. So you are there from the very beginning – you aren’t just walking in whilst everything is already set up.”
At 25 years strong, the Belfast Film Festival continues to attract international names while celebrating meaningful storytelling. For Liu, the evening was a reflection of both artistic recognition and genuine cultural connection.
“It’s so touching, and the award is stunning,” she said, holding the Réalta (“star” in Irish) trophy — a fitting symbol for an artist still shining brightly.
