Lisa Lu, Centenarian Actor and Shanghai Lifetime Achievement Honoree, Reunites With Fans at Screening of Restored 'The Arch'
Veteran actress Lisa Lu, a revered figure in cinema and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival, recently graced a special screening of her seminal 1968 film, 'The Arch.' Her unexpected presence, as she nears her 100th year by traditional Chinese age calculation, was met with enthusiastic applause from the captivated audience, marking a poignant reunion with fans and a significant moment for Chinese-language arthouse cinema. This event highlighted her enduring legacy and the timeless appeal of a film that has undergone a meticulous 4K restoration, bringing its artistic brilliance to new generations.
Lu's journey to starring in 'The Arch' was, by her own account, serendipitous. She revealed that the role was not initially hers but became available after another actress withdrew. Seizing the opportunity, Lu volunteered for the part, a decision she now attributes to immense fortune. During the post-screening discussion, she lauded director Cecile Tang Shu Shuen for her profound cultural insight and the film's visually stunning cinematography. Furthermore, Lu emphasized the pivotal role of Lui Tsun-Yuen's musical score, which she believes masterfully amplified the characters' intricate emotional landscapes and enriched the overall cinematic experience.
'The Arch' stands as a groundbreaking work, representing Hong Kong filmmaker Tang Shu Shuen's directorial debut. The film's distinct visual narrative draws heavily from traditional Chinese poetry and painting, creating a unique aesthetic that has positioned it as a benchmark in Chinese-language arthouse cinema. Its restrained yet powerful cinematography was instrumental in establishing its critical acclaim. The recent 4K restoration of the film in 2025 has allowed it to reach a wider international audience, including a notable screening as part of Cannes Classics at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, further cementing its status as a timeless classic.
The Shanghai screening is among a series of recent accolades celebrating Lisa Lu's illustrious career. Last year, she became the oldest individual to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her significant contributions to the film industry. Internationally, she is perhaps most recognized for her compelling performance as Ah Ma, the formidable matriarch in the 2018 Warner Bros. hit, 'Crazy Rich Asians.' Her unparalleled career also distinguishes her as the only person in Hollywood with voting memberships across the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the Television Academy, and the Screen Actors’ Guild. Additionally, the Chinese government has honored her with the prestigious title of 'Living Legend,' underscoring her monumental impact on both Chinese and global cinema.
This event not only celebrated a cinematic masterpiece and its centenarian star but also underscored the enduring power of film to connect generations and transcend cultural boundaries. Lisa Lu's continued engagement with her work and audience serves as an inspiration, reflecting a career marked by accidental opportunities, profound artistry, and widespread recognition.
