Poppy Liu Embraces New Phase as ‘I Love Boosters’ Star, Discusses Collaboration with Boots Riley and Impact of ‘Hacks’ Ending

Poppy Liu is stepping into a new chapter in her acting career with her role in the film I Love Boosters, directed by Boots Riley. The film features a star-studded cast, including Keke Palmer, Demi Moore, Taylour Paige, Eiza Gonzalez, Naomi Ackie, and Lakeith Stanfield. Liu expressed that this level of visibility feels unprecedented for her, stating, “This level of visibility or mainstream-ness feels really new, and like I’m in real time still wrapping my head around that.”

Transitioning from Hacks to New Projects

As Liu closes the chapter on Hacks, the series that marked her entry into mainstream Hollywood, she is preparing to engage in various upcoming projects. She is set to star alongside Stephanie Hsu and Andrew Liu in the Netflix adult animated comedy Dang!. Additionally, Liu is working on a feature film she describes as an “erotic horror,” centered around a character experiencing a sexual awakening through a ghost from the Chinese Exclusion Act period.

Liu has also been conceptualizing a Chinese American western, a project she has long envisioned. She remarked, “That’s been a dream project and a thing that’s been on my mind for a long time.” She views I Love Boosters as a fitting kickoff for this new era in her career.

Insights on Collaboration with Boots Riley

Liu has long admired Boots Riley, considering him a “bucket list director.” She appreciates his unique artistic voice, characterized by maximalism and absurdism, and his ability to use satire and surrealism for poignant social commentary. Liu emphasized the importance of authenticity in art, noting that Riley has consistently “walked the walk” in his advocacy for social justice.

Liu finds the blend of absurdism and social commentary in Riley’s work compelling, describing it as a “Trojan horse” that draws audiences in. She explained that the vibrant aesthetics and humor allow viewers to lower their defenses, making them more receptive to the underlying messages about global class solidarity and interconnected oppressions.

Navigating the Contradictions of Fame

Liu acknowledged the cognitive dissonance that comes with her rising visibility in Hollywood. Having spent much of her career in indie and grassroots projects, she finds the transition to mainstream film both exciting and challenging. She noted that this is her first high-profile theatrical release, contrasting it with her previous work, which primarily consisted of streaming projects.

Reflecting on the scrutiny faced by public figures, Liu expressed admiration for peers like Keke Palmer and Eiza Gonzalez, who have navigated the spotlight for years. She emphasized the importance of perspective, stating that her maturity allows her to understand what truly matters amidst public opinion.

The Paradox of Promoting I Love Boosters

Liu discussed the themes of anti-capitalism and global class solidarity present in I Love Boosters. While she is enthusiastic about the film’s message, she grapples with the irony of promoting it within a capitalist framework. She articulated the challenge of reconciling the film’s revolutionary themes with the commercial aspects of its promotion, noting that the cast is also a commodity in this process.

She highlighted the hypocrisy inherent in discussing worker exploitation while using products made under questionable labor conditions, such as her iPhone. Liu acknowledged the daunting nature of confronting capitalism and the feeling of helplessness it can induce.

Emphasizing Mutual Aid

To combat feelings of hopelessness, Liu advocates for mutual aid as a practical solution. She believes that the individualistic mindset perpetuated by capitalism is detrimental and emphasizes the importance of community interdependence. Liu encourages individuals to consider their responsibilities to those around them during times of crisis.

Life in a Windowless Hotel Room

Liu shared her experience of living in a windowless hotel room while filming in Atlanta. She described the Forth Hotel as a beautiful establishment, but the layout of her room left her without natural light. This situation led to long stretches of sleep, sometimes up to 15 hours, but also created a disconnection from the outside world.

Reflecting on the End of Hacks

The conclusion of Hacks feels akin to graduating from high school for Liu. She noted that her character, Kiki, had a unique role in the series, often appearing intermittently. Liu reflected on the emotional significance of the show’s ending, which coincided with pivotal moments in her life, including the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and her transition to Los Angeles.

She expressed gratitude for the opportunities that Hacks provided, viewing it as a catalyst for her ongoing career.

As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com.

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Published on 2026-06-11 03:42:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk