The Way Of The Dragon Movie Review

Starring: Bruce Lee

Directed By: Bruce Lee

Year: 1972

In 1972, the legendary Bruce Lee directed his first and only complete film, The Way of The Dragon, in which he also starred, co-produced, and wrote. This was Chuck Norris’s first debut film which was credited as his big break in the acting industry. The film was released in the United States as Return of the Dragon, which better suites the plot in my opinion. In the film Lee plays Tang Lung, a young martial artist who traveled from Hong Kong to Rome to assist his family with issues they were having with their restaurant business. Tang uses his martial arts to fight off the gangsters that have been coming to the restaurant to cause trouble to his family and staff. After losing several encounters with Tang, the gangsters boss would eventually retaliate, making an attempt to kill Tang by hiring an assassin. Fortunately, Tang was too clever to be killed and was able to defeat the assassin. The Mob boss gave the authority to do whatever it takes to defeat Tang at whatever the costs. Two karate masters were hired to challenge Tang along with a world class martial arts master named Colt (Chuck Norris). The restaurant staff is initially defeated after being ambushed by the two karate masters, however Tang intervenes, and leaves the staff defeating the two karate masters. Tang is persuaded to pursue Colt who was waiting for him in the Colosseum. The most iconic martial arts showdown in the history of all martial arts films takes place as Tang defeats Colt, being forced to kill him reluctantly. The display of respect Tang shows to honor his fallen opponent was very admirable; a heartfelt moment stamped into the books by one the greats. 5 out of 5 stars; without a doubt one of the best martial arts movies of all time.