Centenarian Lisa Lu Shares the Screen with Fans: An Unfaltering Devotion to Cinema Transcends Time

Long rounds of applause echoed through Hall 3 of SHO on June 19. Lisa Lu, recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), took her seat among the audience, kicking off an emotional post-screening event for The Arch.

Released in 1968, The Arch stands as a landmark classic in Chinese cinema, yet Lu’s casting came entirely by chance. She recalls the director originally cast another actress, who turned down the role. “I volunteered myself back then. I was incredibly fortunate to land a part in this film.”

Marking the directorial debut of trailblazing Hong Kong female director Cecile Tang Shu Shuen, The Arch weaves traditional Chinese poetry, painting and aesthetics into visual storytelling. Its subtle, understated cinematography established it as a benchmark for Chinese-language arthouse cinema. Lu speaks highly of the film’s artistic merits across the board. “The director possesses profound cultural literacy, and every frame is breathtaking. Most importantly, Mr. Lui Tsun-Yuen’s score elevates the entire production, underscoring the inner emotions of every character through music.”

The film underwent full 4K restoration in 2025 and was selected for Cannes Classics at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. Now its newly restored cut graces screens at SIFF, as the “returning swallow” shares another heartwarming moment with viewers.

On the evening of June 13, Lisa Lu, turning 100 this year by traditional Chinese age reckoning, was presented with the SIFF Lifetime Achievement Award at the Golden Goblet Awards Ceremony of the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival. Her surprise appearance following the screening of The Arch touched every fan in attendance.

Many audience members shared their heartfelt thoughts. “Some passions transcend time; you can feel her boundless love for cinema.” “She is not only a consummate performer but has never stopped moving forward, devoting her whole life to film with pure, unwavering original aspiration.” Others drew great inspiration from her, gaining deeper faith in the passing of the cinematic torch. “Lisa Lu sets an exemplary standard for young filmmakers,” one viewer commented. “Her very presence embodies the power of cinema.”