If you're a big fan of kung fu flicks from the 70's like I am, you'll enjoy this interview clip (posted below) with Ron Van Clief of The Black Kung Fu Experience documentary.
A kung fu master and champion, Van Clief — aka "The Black Dragon" — prominently displayed his skills in a number of blaxploitation films from the past. The documentary highlights and explores the emergence of black pioneers in this popular martial arts form.
A synopsis states…
"The film traces the rise of the black kung fu experience in the 1960s and 1970s, and then reconnects with the contemporary martial arts scene at the 1,500-year-old Shaolin Temple, legendary birthplace of kung fu. The film underscores the Chinese and African American experiences as they evolve differently yet converge in unexpected ways, and how they challenge political and social persecution — as diverse as the Qing government’s oppressive rule in China, British colonialism in Hong Kong, and entrenched American racism — with the unique vehicle of kung fu."
In addition, it…
"chronicles black pioneers, including famous actors and lesser-known practitioners, who became respected masters in a world dominated by Chinese and white men, as well as two younger martial artists who take us to the cutting edge of modern kung fu."
The project, which was co-produced/directed by Martha Burr and Mei-Juin Chen, will also explore the interweaving of kung fu in the Jamaican reggae world and hip hop music.
A special focus screening of the film was held in the UK last month and it will be officially completed in May according to Chen.
A decision hasn't been made regarding its debut yet but as soon as we know…