Key Takeaways:
– A documentary titled ‘Enter the Clones of Bruce’ explores the semblance of Bruce Lee films produced following his death.
– The film comprises interviews from various actors who had impersonated Bruce Lee in these films.
– Bruce Le and Bruce Li, two of the most successful Bruce Lee clones, recount their experiences.
– The movie also spots light on the Hong Kong film industry during the controversial period.
Ever heard of Bruce Le or Bruce Li? Sounds oddly like Bruce Lee, the iconic martial artist, right? Well, they are meant to. Following the legend’s death, movie producers saw a business opportunity in the hardcore fans’ yearning for more of their hero. Little did they know that this would kickstart an entire grindhouse movie genre – the Bruce Lee exploitation films. A recent documentary, ‘Enter the Clones of Bruce,’ brilliantly knits together this peculiar chapter in film history.
‘Enter the Clones of Bruce’ – Unmasking the Bruce Lee Lookalikes
Following Bruce Lee’s demise, a massive void was left in the hearts of his fans. Sensing an opportunity, independent Chinese filmmakers rushed to produce a flood of Bruce Lee knock-off films. Every movie featured lookalikes who would replicate the Bruce Lee charm, right down to his hairdo and his martial arts style. This wave of Bruce Lee-alike films surprisingly garnered significant attention, as global audiences craved more of the martial arts superstar. This documentary tour takes you through the heart of the phenomenon, guided by the very Bruce Lee doppelgangers that played a leading role.
Life Beyond ‘Bruce Lee’ for Lookalikes
Each of the individuals who played the ad-lib Bruce Lee characters has since moved on from the film industry. They have reinvented themselves, and rather than harbouring bitterness about the exploitation, they fondly recall the experiences. Indeed, many look back at the grind of their erstwhile careers with nostalgia, acknowledging the role of the producers in their ascension to stardom. These weren’t sad stories, but rather charming tales of ambition and adaptation.
Spotlight on Bruce Le and Bruce Li
Among the cluster of clones, Bruce Le and Bruce Li stood out as more engaging figures. Now practicing as an osteopath, Bruce Li recounts the gruelling challenge of imitating Lee’s authentic martial art style. The other talented clone, Bruce Le, shares amusing anecdotes about the austere production processes.
Navigating the Hong Kong Film Industry Maze
Along with the focus on clones, the documentary offers glimpses into the Hong Kong film industry’s fractured state, the big production houses, and their operations. For instance, one section explores Shaw Brothers’ stringent work ethic despite not producing Bruce Lee clone films. Andre Morgan, a producer with Golden Harvest, shares insightful stories about the troubled shooting of ‘Game of Death,’ another controversial Bruce Lee film.
The ‘Female Bruce Lee’
The film also features an intriguing segment about Angela Mao, popularly hailed as the ‘female Bruce Lee.’ Now a restaurant owner in the US, Mao fondly reminisces her days as an action celebrity in the 70s.
‘Enter the Clones of Bruce’ is more than just a documentary. It’s an exciting roller-coaster ride through an unusual era of film history. For any fans of martial arts film history, this documentary offers a delightful deep-dive into an extraordinary chapter of global cinema. Just like our love for the evergreen Bruce Lee, this documentary is certainly worth checking out!
