Possibly the ultimate kung-fu movie, Enter the Dragon was the last film Bruce Lee made before his death (the film was released 6 days after he died.) The plot is pretty cliche by now, but we watch because of the incredible feats displayed by those who have mastered their bodies, not because of a hugely compelling story. It goes like this: Evil villain invited the best fighters from around the world to join him on his island fortress/martial arts school for a tournament. This is merely a front for finding potential recruits for his army. Bruce Lee is invited to go and recruited by the British Government to be a spy. Nefarious activity is discovered, crazy fight scenes ensue.
With some variations the villain/tourney has been used a lot (Mortal Kombat/Dragon Ball Z anyone?) but Bruce Lee is a master of his art and the film displays this amazingly. Combining philosophy with self mastery, Lee creates a brilliant display of self control and strength. Just how dedicated these artists are to their craft is exemplified by one scene in the film where Lee performs a flying kick to another fighter's chest, sending him flying. In consulting how to do this beforehand the receiver of the blow insisted it be real despite knowing the danger of physical harm. Shot in slow motion, and to a 21st century viewer used to cheesy effects, this is surprising. No one is willing to be hurt for film anymore. The kick sends Lee's opponent flying into a group of people, knocking over chairs and spectators alike. The opponent's sternum was broken, as were the arms of two people who tried to catch him. One kick! Filming was halted for three months to allow for recuperation. But that's incredible! Not to mention that some of the fighters' actions are so fast that camera has trouble catching them. This isn't bullet time, or sped up cheesy knockoffs. This is the real deal. And the film is worth it for that.
Summary: Tons of cheesy cliches do nothing to ruin the physical feats of Bruce Lee and company.
Rating: ***
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