Watch The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam

The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam is a 2003 documentary film directed, written, and narrated by Ann Marie Fleming. The film tells the story of Long Tack Sam, one of the greatest vaudeville artists and acrobats of the early 20th century. Long Tack Sam's acrobatic abilities and stunts were so unique and extraordinary that he became a sensation around the world.

The film is a mix of live-action, animation, and archival footage, and it is told through a series of interviews with Long Tack Sam's descendants, friends, and colleagues. Through these interviews, we learn about his early life in China, his journey to America, and his rise to fame in the vaudeville circuit. Long Tack Sam was able to blend various elements of Chinese culture with Western entertainment, which made him a popular entertainer among both Chinese and Western audiences.

The film also explores the challenges that Long Tack Sam faced due to his ethnicity. Despite his success, he faced discrimination and racism, particularly during the era of the Chinese Exclusion Act. The film shows how Long Tack Sam and his family were forced to perform under different names to avoid discrimination, and how they had to hide their true identities in order to avoid persecution.

As the film unfolds, it becomes clear that The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam is not just about the life of a great performer, but also about the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The film emphasizes the crucial role that family history and storytelling play in preserving cultural identity and passing it down to future generations.

One of the most captivating elements of the film is the animation that is interspersed throughout the story. The animation brings to life Long Tack Sam's acrobatic stunts and performances, showing just how amazing and difficult they were. The animation also adds a layer of whimsy and magic to the film, conveying the sense of wonder and enchantment that Long Tack Sam's performances must have inspired.

Overall, The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam is a wonderful tribute to a remarkable performer and a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage. The film is filled with fascinating stories, stunning visuals, and captivating performances. It tells a story that is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and it leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.

The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam is a 2004 animated movie 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 7.3.