Movie spotlight
Shaolin Dolemite
The film was created by re-dubbing footage filmed for the 1986 Taiwanese kung fu film Ren zhe da (known in English as Ninja: The Final Duel). Ren zhe da producer Robert Tai had reportedly filmed 10 hours of footage for the film that was cut to 90 minutes for release. Much of the footage that was not included in the release of Ren zhe da is included in Shaolin Dolemite as well as original footage of Moore observing the story of the film and making obscenity-laced comments. Other new footage includes a segment portraying Moore's long time friend Jimmy Lynch as a Drunken Master named Sam the Spliff.
Insights
Plot Summary
A martial arts master, trained in the legendary Shaolin style, must defend his community from a ruthless street gang. Armed with unparalleled fighting skills and a code of honor, he becomes the last line of defense against the escalating violence and corruption that threatens to consume his neighborhood.
Critical Reception
Shaolin Dolemite is a cult classic known for its raw, independent spirit and over-the-top martial arts action. While not a mainstream hit, it garnered a dedicated following among fans of gritty action films and exploitation cinema for its unique blend of low-budget filmmaking and energetic fight choreography.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its inventive and intense fight sequences.
Appreciated for its throwback exploitation film aesthetic.
Noted for its gritty, no-holds-barred approach to action.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for Shaolin Dolemite is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Director Jim Van Bebber is known for his distinctively violent and stylized independent films, often featuring themes of revenge and martial arts, with Shaolin Dolemite being a prime example of his work.
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