Simu Liu recently starred in the based-on-a-true-story action movie, Last Breath, and its good reviews hint at an exciting new trend for the actor. After years of gathering minor television roles, Liu burst onto the movie scene in 2021 when he took on the starring role in Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. From there, he took on even more coveted roles, hosting Saturday Night Live in 2021, appearing as Rival Ken in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, and voicing Multi-Paul in the latest season of Invincible. Despite these achievements, though, Liu may have another trick up his sleeve.

On February 28, 2025, Liu released his latest movie, Last Breath. This film tells the real-life story of a group of skilled divers who must race against the clock to save their crewmate who is trapped hundreds of feet below the surface of the ocean. Alongside Liu, Last Breath stars Woody Harrelson, Finn Cole, and Cliff Curtis. Although the movie was only recently released, Last Breath already has some strong reviews from critics. Currently, it has a 79% on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers praising the film for its тιԍнт execution and realistic portrayal of a true story.

Last Breath Is Simu Liu’s Second Straight True Story Movie To Be Fresh On Rotten Tomatoes

What Last Breath & Arthur The King Did Right

Last Breath’s critical success is a wonderful accomplishment on its own, but it also signals a step in the right direction for Liu. Last Breath is Liu’s second based-on-a-true-story movie that has raked in a strong Rotten Tomatoes score. In 2024, the actor appeared in the Mark Wahlberg-led film, Arthur the King, which follows the true story of an adventure racing team traveling through the Dominican Republic who are unexpectedly joined by a wounded stray dog. Similar to Last Breath, Arthur the King earned a 97% audience score, showing that these types of stories have been successful for Liu.

Last Breath and Arthur the King have done well, not only because they are solid movies, but also because they offer up stories that audiences are eager for. Though the films are quite different in terms of plot, both include themes of hope and loyalty. In the same way that Arthur the King’s racing team must stick together through their grueling race, the crew of Last Breath must fight for the life of their peer, even when it seems impossible. Ultimately, these movies tell simple yet moving stories that stick with audiences long after watching.

Simu Liu Needs To Do More True Story Movies After Last Breath & Arthur The King

What Is Next For Liu

After receiving positive reviews for both Arthur the King and Last Breath, this may be a sign that Liu should take on more true story movies. Liu’s Rotten Tomatoes history is not necessarily bad, but many of his movies have proven to be more rotten than fresh. However, the films that stick out are those with big IPs and real-life stories that make audiences feel something. With Shang-Chi 2 still stuck in development, more based-on-a-true-story movies could be a beneficial step forward for the actor.

At this time, Liu has a number of projects in the works. In terms of movies, the actor is slated to appear in the 2025 animated film, In Your Dreams, alongside Craig Robinson. His TV prospects are even more exciting, as he will reprise his role as Shang-Chi in 2025’s Marvel Zombies, and star in Seven Wonders and Copenhagen. Busy with these projects, Liu may not have time for any more true story movies right now, but hopefully Last Breath will not be the last project of its kind.