MOVIE REVIEW
Enter the Clones of Bruce
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): David Gregory
Where To Watch: Severin & Alamo Drafthouse Present, David Gregory’s Award-Winning Documentary + Bruce Le Q&A In Los Angeles, San Francisco, Austin & NYC, Beginning 4/12; also available on Digital Platforms on 4/30 & Blu-ray on 5/21

RAVING REVIEW: ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE whisks us away to July 20, 1973, and the unfolding aftermath of Bruce Lee's untimely passing, which gave birth to a genre in “Bruceploitation” that sought to fill the void he left behind. David Gregory's documentary explores a movement born from homage, greed, and necessity. Peering into the essence of Bruceploitation, Gregory unveils its profound influence and the enduring legacy it has etched into cinematic history. Check back for my upcoming coverage of Severin’s “The Game Of Clones: Bruceploitation Collection Vol. 1,” exploring 14 Bruceploitation classics!

Imagine stepping back into a time when the legend of Bruce Lee still loomed large (well, even more significant than it does now) and a new genre, Bruceploitation, emerged from the shadows of his greatness. This is the core that David Gregory examines in ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE. The documentary starts with a poignant look at Lee's skyrocketing fame and the monumental void his departure left. Here unfolds a tale, not of just mere mimicry or opportunism but a layered homage to a towering figure in martial arts cinema.

Central to ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE is its focus on the genre's unsung heroes - the performers who stepped into the light yet remained out of the spotlight, Bruce Li, Dragon Lee, and many others. Through heart-to-heart interviews, Gregory introduces us to these figures, not as mere shadows of Lee but as artists carving their niches in a genre obsessed with one legend. These personal narratives, with challenges and triumphs, offer a fresh perspective on the performers behind the personas.

The narrative dives deeper, exploring the intricate web of marketing ploys and legal hurdles that defined Bruceploitation. The film never shies away from the ethical dilemmas surrounding the use of Lee's image or some of the more questionable tactics used, broadening the scope to include the genre's ripple effects on the broader film industry and beyond. 

But Gregory's examination isn't just focused on the past; it also zooms out to frame Bruceploitation into the broader narrative of martial arts cinema and its impact. This exploration not only honors the genre's role in shaping perceptions of Asian identity worldwide but also enriches the documentary with a multi-dimensional analysis of its significance. It also spotlights the true successor who was able to create his own identity in martial arts, not just as a clone of Bruce.

Despite its comprehensive scope, ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE’s biggest knock is that it ignites a desire for more—its runtime only scratches the surface of the Bruceploitation phenomenon; I could see (and would love to see) a sequel that goes deeper into the unique films, but also moves on to the aftermath of the martial arts story. This thirst for deeper exploration is a testament to Gregory's skill in engaging the audience, leaving us yearning to look further into untold stories and facets of the story.

The film employs a combination of archival footage and contemporary interviews. It immerses its viewers in the story and never looks back. Drawing from a wide range of voices, from those who lived through the era to those who have chronicled it, Gregory lends the film an authenticity and depth that resonates with a broad audience.

ENTER THE CLONES OF BRUCE is a pivotal exploration of a unique chapter in film history, spotlighting David Gregory's skillful direction. It examines Bruce Lee's legacy and the genre he inadvertently inspired while looking toward the future. This documentary celebrates the endeavors to preserve Lee's legacy and offers a window into a riveting slice of cinematic heritage, capturing the hearts of viewers and critics alike.

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[photo courtesy of SEVERIN FILMS]

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