Watch Bruce Lee, The Legend

"Bruce Lee: The Legend" is a documentary film released in 1984 that delves into the fascinating life, career, and legacy of the martial arts icon Bruce Lee. Directed by Leonard Ho, the film posthumously honors Bruce Lee's impact on martial arts, cinema, and popular culture. At a time when Asian representation in Hollywood was scarce, Bruce Lee broke boundaries and became an international superstar, revered for his unparalleled skill, charisma, and philosophies.

The documentary narratively weaves through Bruce Lee's life, starting from his birth on November 27, 1940, in San Francisco, to his upbringing in Hong Kong. We are introduced to Hoi-Chuen Lee, Bruce's father, who was an influential figure in Bruce's life, and whose involvement in the entertainment industry paved the way for young Bruce's initial forays into film as a child actor. Notably, Bruce appeared in multiple films during his childhood—experiences that not only showcased his natural on-screen presence but also likely ignited his passion for performing.

"Bruce Lee: The Legend" offers insight into the early influences in Bruce's life that shaped his philosophy and martial arts style. It delves into his study of Wing Chun under the legendary Ip Man in Hong Kong, his move to the United States, and how he worked to adapt and evolve traditional martial arts for practical self-defense. The documentary explores his development of Jeet Kune Do—a martial arts philosophy focusing on efficiency, directness, and flexibility. This was Bruce Lee's own unique contribution to the world of martial arts, going beyond the rigid forms of traditional styles.

One of the film's highlights is the chronicle of Bruce Lee's struggle to make a name for himself in Hollywood. Despite his exceptional talent and charisma, Bruce faced significant racial discrimination and stereotyping in an industry not ready to embrace an Asian leading man. The documentary underscores the irony of his rise to fame; while he struggled to secure significant roles in the United States due to prejudice, he became a megastar in Hong Kong after starring in films such as "The Big Boss," "Fist of Fury," and "Way of the Dragon." These films catapulted him to international fame and changed the landscape of action cinema.

The viewer is given an inside look at the making of the movies that Bruce Lee is best known for, with behind-the-scenes footage that showcases his meticulous approach to fight choreography and his dedication to his craft. Rare interviews with Lee himself, as well as with friends, family, and colleagues, punctuate the documentary, offering personal anecdotes and reflections on the man behind the legend. James B. Nicholson, a figure involved in the distribution of Lee's films, is among those sharing insights into Lee's influence on cinema.

Bruce Lee's final completed film "Enter the Dragon" is a focal point in the documentary, representing not only a triumph in his career but also standing as a symbol of what could have been. The film is a testament to his star power and his potential as a cultural bridge between East and West. His untimely death at the age of 32, just before the release of "Enter the Dragon," adds a poignant undertone to the narrative.

"Bruce Lee: The Legend" also touches on the various theories surrounding Bruce Lee's mysterious and sudden death, which left the world in shock and disbelief. His passing led to an outpouring of grief and speculation, underscoring the power of his influence and the void left in his absence. The documentary explores the extent of his legacy and the way in which he inspired and continues to inspire millions of people around the globe.

In addition to its historical and biographical content, the documentary celebrates Bruce Lee's impact on physical fitness and nutrition, his philosophical writings, and his role as a cultural icon who shattered stereotypes and exemplified the fusion of physical prowess with intellectual acumen. His legacy is enhanced by interviews with students and contemporaries from the martial arts community who attest to his profound influence on their lives and practices.

"Bruce Lee: The Legend" provides an earnest and detailed homage to a man who transcended the role of an actor and martial artist to become a symbol of personal excellence and integrity. The film remains a deeply respectful and engaging portrait of a life that, though tragically brief, continues to reverberate through time, inspiring new generations to pursue their passions with the same fervor and dedication as the remarkable man himself.

Bruce Lee, The Legend is a 1984 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.