- George Chung
- Apr 25
- 2 min read
If you’re a martial artist and you haven’t seen The Last Dragon (1985), stop what you’re doing and fix that immediately.
Directed by Michael Schultz and produced by Berry Gordy of Motown fame, this film isn’t just a quirky ‘80s throwback—it’s one of the earliest mainstream martial arts movies in the U.S. to feature a Black protagonist, real martial arts choreography, and an unapologetic love for Bruce Lee.
Our hero, Leroy Green—better known as “Bruce Leroy”—is on a classic martial arts journey: seeking not just physical skill but spiritual enlightenment. He trains under a traditional master, lives by the tenets of humility and discipline, and literally chases “The Glow,” a metaphor for achieving harmony between mind, body, and spirit.
For any martial artist, that’s the eternal pursuit.
Taimak, who plays Leroy, wasn’t just an actor pretending to throw kicks. He was a trained martial artist with black belts in multiple disciplines, and his background shows in his crisp technique, clean stances, and commitment to the physicality of the role.
It’s rare for an American martial arts film of that era to get the fundamentals right, but The Last Dragon actually, well, at least respects the art.
Of course, no martial arts movie is complete without a worthy antagonist, and Sho’nuff—the self-proclaimed “Shogun of Harlem”—delivers. He’s a larger-than-life villain with exaggerated flair, but look past the bravado and you’ll notice he brings raw aggression and pressure-fighting energy that contrasts perfectly with Leroy’s calm, defensive style. It’s a visual representation of two martial philosophies clashing.
Fight-wise, the choreography leans into spectacle, but there are real lessons hidden in the flash. The film emphasizes timing, distance management, and confidence—Leroy can’t unlock his full power until he lets go of self-doubt and fights with full intention.
Sound familiar?
For martial artists, The Last Dragon is more than campy fun. It’s a story about growth, discipline, and mastering yourself before you can master your opponent. Plus, let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want their qi to literally light up the room?
Whether you train in kung fu, karate, or kickboxing, The Last Dragon is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that the martial path isn’t just about belts or brawls—it’s about becoming your best self.
Glow on.
