The Legend Bruce Lee
[1]
1940.11.27 ~ 1973.07.20
By Brian
The Focus of Brian's Exhibit
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Representation is all about Bruce Lee's story, which brought a key change in the way Asian Americans are represented in mainstream media.² Historically, Hollywood has framed Asian Americans as stereotypes and isolated them. However, Bruce Lee challenged these norms, breaking down barriers and providing positive, empowering representation for the Asian American community.³ His iconic presence on screen brought a broader sense of inclusiveness, paving the way for future Asian American actors and directors.
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Stereotypes deeply rooted in social awareness presented Bruce Lee with enormous challenges. At that time, stereotypes limited Asian actors to specific roles. Bruce Lee constantly fought these stereotypes to dismantle and reconstruct equal opportunities for Asian actors.⁴ Since his actions began a transformational conversation about cultural representation and everyone's hopes, understanding the stereotypes he faced represents the importance of his influence.
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Bruce Lee's commitment to social justice extended beyond Hollywood. In an era when racial inequality and systemic barriers were harsh,⁵ Bruce Lee strongly advocated equal opportunity and fair treatment. His actions, driven by a desire for social justice, express the broader world, highlight the need for inclusivity, and dismantle racial hierarchies. Bruce Lee's legacy encourages social change and contributes to the ongoing conversation on justice and equality.⁶
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Bruce Lee's cultural influence transcends the boundaries of entertainment and affects the world. His martial arts philosophy, innovative techniques, and charisma have left an indelible mark on how the world perceives Asian American culture.⁷ Bruce Lee's legacy shapes cultural norms and expands diversity, reaching far beyond the movie screen.
My exhibit plan is to explore the impact of Bruce Lee on the representation, culture, and social justice of Asian Americans. Through using media objects such as interviews, photos, and the documentary film "I Am Bruce Lee."¹ The exhibit will analyze how he challenged racial stereotypes, promoted social justice, and inspired future generations of Asian American actors and martial artists. The goal is to represent Bruce Lee's lasting impact on Asian Americans in an engaging and comprehensive manner.
Movie Summary "I AM BRUCE LEE"
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Movie Summary "I AM BRUCE LEE" -
"I Am Bruce Lee" Movie Poster [3]
Bruce Lee's facetious expression [2]
"I Am Bruce Lee" is a documentary film directed by Pete McCormack that offers an intense exploration of the life and philosophy of Bruce Lee (Asian American and martial arts icon).⁸ The film analyzes the cultural and social impact of Bruce Lee on our society associated with the world of martial arts. The director McCormack used archival video from before his death and conducted interviews with family, friends, and fellow movie stars.⁹ This approach provides a detailed portrayal of Bruce Lee's professional life and personal philosophy. For example, the film follows Bruce Lee's early years in Hong Kong, his success in Hollywood, and his rise to a global star.¹⁰ It highlights Bruce Lee as an Asian American pioneer in challenging racial stereotypes in the film industry and martial arts, emphasizing his becoming a global star. The film delves into the struggles and debates Bruce Lee faced as an Asian American, both professionally and personally, adding depth to his quest for a lasting legacy. Going beyond conventional narratives such as the traditional biography, "I Am Bruce Lee" emphasizes Bruce Lee's cultural influence, impact on martial arts, and lasting effect on the perception of Asian Americans in media.¹¹ Furthermore, the interviews used in the film continue to create a poignant and comprehensive portrait of cultural icons worldwide, serving as living witnesses to the legacy he left behind.
Introduction
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Introduction -
Welcome to "I Am Bruce Lee," a documentary detailing the life of martial arts legend Bruce Lee and exploring the social justice, representation, and culture of Asian Americans. Directed by Pete McCormack, the film's journey goes beyond the boundaries of traditional storytelling and deeply explores the challenges, life, and eternal legacy of cultural icon Bruce Lee.¹² The documentary represents Bruce Lee as an influential Asian American, capturing not only his martial arts skills but also his indomitable spirit that challenged Hollywood's dominant stereotypes and racial barriers, which were not easy to overcome at the time. This exhibit will reflect on historical events and unravel the multifaceted layers of Bruce Lee's journey. "I Am Bruce Lee".¹³ is a great example of understanding how the legendary figure explored conflicts, influencing a broader spectrum of Asian American representation, culture, and social justice issues. It seeks to examine the complex threads of Bruce Lee's life through media objects, including interviews, videos, and photos. It is about a comprehensive understanding of Bruce Lee's legacy and learning broader lessons about diversity, representation, and social justice within the cultural environment he greatly influenced to form. Enter the exhibit as it tells the story of Bruce Lee, an ethical and cultural icon whose exceptional yet enduring influence resonates with Asian Americans.
Explore More About Bruce Lee's Life and Legacy!
Bruce Lee's charming smile [4]
Bruce Lee practicing kung fu [5]
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Bruce Lee's life represents two key categories: martial arts and entertainment. Born in San Francisco on Nov. 27, 1940, he grew up in Hong Kong and later returned to the United States.¹⁴ His journey into martial arts began at an early age, and his skills consistently demonstrated excellence on the grand stage of Hollywood.
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Bruce Lee in Hollywood marked a significant change in the portrayal of non-mainstream Asians in mainstream films. Despite facing early difficulties due to racial stereotypes, Bruce Lee broke through barriers with iconic roles in mainstream films such as "Enter the Dragon" and "Way of the Dragon."¹⁵ Bruce Lee's charisma and martial arts skills fascinated audiences worldwide, challenging preconceptions about Asian actors and paving the way for more diversity in the film industry.
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On July 20, 1973, the sudden death of Bruce Lee shocked many. However, his legacy continues to impact generations.¹⁶ His philosophy still teaches us valuable lessons as we live. Beyond the film industry, Bruce Lee's influence extends to cultural, philosophical, and martial arts skills, making his legacy as a global icon enduring.
Bruce Lee at martial arts academy in Los Angeles Chinatown [6]
Bruce Lee's profound impact on Asian American representation and overcoming stereotypes influenced Asian Americans. It shows Bruce Lee's transformative power in paving the way for a more inclusive and genuine representation of Asian Americans in a broader cultural landscape. For example, this photo [6] capturing Bruce Lee at his martial arts academy in Los Angeles Chinatown provides realistic proof of the Asian American representation, stereotypes, and the dynamic role Bruce Lee played in these stories. In this flashback image [6], Bruce Lee stands in the middle of "Chinatown's cultural tapestry"¹⁷ as a martial artist and a cultural icon challenging dominant stereotypes. The significance of this photo [6] is crucial, considering that Chinatown has historically been a central point for perpetuating certain stereotypes related to cultural identity and the Asian community. At first look, the photo [6] captures Bruce Lee in a space where martial arts, the center of his identity, converge with the Chinatown environment. Bruce Lee's presence challenges preconceptions about Asian masculinity. Examining the photo [6] closely, most people are sitting on the floor and staring at Bruce Lee(who stands with his back leaning). Bruce Lee's detailed and imposing attitude in this space dismantles stereotypes that once described Asians as passive or subservient. Many immigrants, excluding white people, faced discrimination at the time. For example, "immigrants should work for the depressed wages they receive (they deserve to be here because they are cheap workers and help our economy)."¹⁸ Asian Americans had to live within this narrow and distorted stereotype. However, Bruce Lee overcome these difficulties, such as "language barriers, and social isolation led immigrant workers to find a means of earning a living and social interaction in immigrant owned businesses."¹⁹
Asian American representation and challenge prevailing stereotypes
In this photo [7], his academy transcends the realm of martial arts, just as physical and cultural spaces converge to examine images of strength, resilience, and authenticity. Moreover, the photo [7] challenges mainstream media portrayals of Asian Americans as exotic, meek, vicious, etc.²⁰ Through his martial arts skills and charisma, he overcame these entrenched stereotypes and brought a message of hope to Asian Americans that they could do as much as they wanted. The Chinatown background has typically been a backdrop for expressions of Asian culture in mainstream media.²¹ By establishing a martial arts academy in the area, Bruce Lee redefined the place as a space of authenticity such as, his martial arts academy serves as an iconic bridge between tradition and modernity.
The photo [7] encapsulates Bruce Lee's profound impact on Asian American representation and overcoming stereotypes, bringing attention to Bruce Lee as an influential Asian American in a space filled with cultural significance. It shows Bruce Lee's transformative power in paving the way for a more inclusive and genuine representation of Asian Americans in a broader cultural landscape.
Bruce Lee teaching at his martial arts academy [7]
Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee [8]
Journey toward social justice and equality
In the realm of martial arts and cinematic excellence, both Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan have left indelible marks on the history of action movies.²² The internal dynamic of Bruce Lee's fight scenes goes beyond mere choreography. It represents a philosophy deeply embedded in his approach to martial arts. Beyond the physical spectacle is the realization of Bruce Lee's philosophy, a fusion of efficiency, adaptability, and various martial arts training.²³ He introduced a philosophy applicable to life's challenges, with a deep influence on social justice that gives it lasting power over future generations. For example, [8] contains outstanding moments showcasing the martial arts skills of both Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan. In one instance, Bruce Lee executes a spectacular action sequence with a then-unknown actor named Jackie Chan.²⁴ Also, [9] Jackie Chan reveals Bruce Lee's profound influence on him and the revolution of martial arts films in an insightful interview reflecting on his relationship with Bruce Lee. Jackie Chan acknowledges Bruce Lee's impact on his cinematic journey, emphasizing the fundamental philosophy that breaks down justice, equality, and social norms alongside his physical talent.²⁵ It becomes evident that Bruce Lee's legacy extends beyond martial arts choreography, which represents the power that drives social change.
Bruce Lee explores his unique philosophy [10]
Jackie Chan talks about Bruce Lee [9]
Bruce Lee's commitment to social justice, advocating fair treatment and equal opportunity, laid the foundation for Jackie Chan and his following(future) generation of Asian American actors and directors.²⁶ Jackie Chan's interview [9] delves into Bruce Lee's mind in a narrative transcending entertainment martial arts philosophy as a social justice medium.
Bruce Lee's philosophy [10], both in and out of movies, became the foundation for cultural change and representation. His heart for breaking stereotypes and challenging prejudiced society laid the groundwork for a more inclusive industry. The influence of Bruce Lee's philosophy is evident in Jackie Chan's various roles and the broader evolution of martial arts films.²⁷ Bruce Lee's legacy serves as an inspiration for future generations to break down social stereotype barriers and push for social justice.
The evolution of Asian American Culture
Bruce Lee is a transcendent icon revered as a role model for Asian Americans and has profoundly influenced Asian American culture. In Interview [11], which represents Bruce Lee's impact, he unveils his profound influence on shaping the Asian American cultural identity. Bruce Lee's legacy redefines empowerment, representation, and cultural pride for Asian Americans.²⁸
The interviewees [11] are all Asian Americans, representing Bruce Lee as heroes. Bruce Lee's journey from overcoming Hollywood's racial stereotypes to earning global recognition is enough to earn deep respect from Asian Americans, who have often struggled with their battles for representation.²⁹ By receiving worldwide recognition, Bruce Lee has broken prejudice against Asian Americans and fostered pride and possibility in Asian American culture. These facts give interviewees hope that Bruce Lee's pioneering success will inspire them, breaking social barriers and paving their way.
Bruce Lee's daughter talk about her father [12]
Bruce Lee influenced cultural identity beyond martial arts. In an interview [12] with Bruce Lee's daughter, many Asian Americans describe Bruce Lee as an objector or pioneer instead of a martial artist. Bruce Lee's cultural legacy, evident through the fusion of "Eastern and Western mindsets,"³⁰ establishes a new identity for Asian Americans who are complex or confused about dual identities. In the Interview [12], Bruce Lee's martial arts and heritage are demonstrated as the foundation of modern martial arts and action. Also, Bruce Lee's charisma, philosophy, and indomitable spirit become a leadership force that goes beyond respect to form ideals and values. Bruce Lee's legacy emphasizes that it remains an alive influence that transcends time and is not limited to a particular era.³¹ For example, Bruce Lee's ongoing respect as a hero among young Asian Americans represents that his cultural influence is eternal.³² Therefore, Bruce Lee is more than an icon and impacts Asian American cultural pride, breaking stereotypical boundaries.
Voices of Asian Americans about Bruce Lee [11]
Conclusion
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Conclusion -
The representation, social justice, and culture of Asian Americans in Bruce Lee's life reflect not only the cinematic exploration of a martial arts legend (as depicted in the film "I Am Bruce Lee")³³ but also the profound reflection of his legacy. In shaping the perception of Asian Americans in Hollywood, Bruce Lee overcomes racial stereotypes by delving into the challenges he faces. He is a pioneer who advocated for faithful portrayals of Asian Americans through his martial arts skills.³⁴ The film "I Am Bruce Lee"³⁵ captures the core of Bruce Lee's journey and redefines social justice for Asian Americans, challenging systemic barriers within the entertainment industry. The representation section of the exhibit demonstrates how his influence extends far beyond the realm of entertainment, reshaping social perceptions and advocating for an unbiased society. Bruce Lee's commitment to social justice is crucial in his willingness to break down barriers to stereotypes and create equal opportunities, significantly affecting Asian Americans.³⁶ He fought for "racial minorities"³⁷ and paved the way for social justice, providing equal opportunities for future generations. His philosophy inspires the Asian American community beyond the martial arts. Bruce Lee's legacy is a starting point for an equal society, which defines the problematic and complex identities of Asian Americans, not just as a martial artist but also as a method of pride influencing the cultural identity of Asian Americans. His ability to merge different cultural influences is evidence of the abundance of Asian American culture.³⁸
Bruce Lee entering the dragon [13]
References
McCormack, P. (Director). (2012). I Am Bruce Lee [Film]. Shout! Factory.
Chen, Y. S. (2014). Becoming Bruce Lee: Visions of the Asian American Experience in Bruce Lee’s Biopic. Journal of Asian American Studies, 17(2), 203-224. https://doi.org/10.32479/irmm.14023
Ibid.
Pellerin, E. (2019). Bruce Lee as director and the star as author. Global Media and China, 4(3),339-347. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436419873337
Paik, A. Naomi. Bans, Walls, Raids, Sanctuary: Understanding US Immigration for the Twenty-First Century. University of California Press, 2020.
Hu, B. (2008). 'Bruce Lee' after Bruce Lee: a life in conjectures. Journal of Chinese Cinemas, Ii(2), 123-135. http://proxy.library.vanderbilt.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/bruce-lee-after-life-conjectures/docview/1746371898/se-2
Chen, Y. S. (2014). Becoming Bruce Lee: Visions of the Asian American Experience in Bruce Lee’s Biopic. Journal of Asian American Studies, 17(2), 203-224. https://doi.org/10.32479/irmm.14023
McCormack, P. (Director). (2012). I Am Bruce Lee [Film]. Shout! Factory.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Erwin, K. (2003). Chinese American Masculinities: From Fu Manchu to Bruce Lee. The Journal of Asian Studies, 62(1), 195-197. http://proxy.library.vanderbilt.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/chinese-american-masculinities-fu-manchu-bruce/docview/230448912/se-2
Pellerin, E. (2019). Bruce Lee as director and the star as author. Global Media and China, 4(3),339-347. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436419873337
Ibid.
Ibid.
Paik, A. Naomi. Bans, Walls, Raids, Sanctuary: Understanding US Immigration for the Twenty-First Century. University of California Press, 2020.
Hill, K. M. (2018). Sweet and Sour: Social Networks and Inequality in a Chinese Restaurant. Sociology of Race and Ethnicity (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), 4(1), 114–127. https://doi.org/10.1177/2332649217705673
Pellerin, E. (2019). Bruce Lee as director and the star as author. Global Media and China, 4(3),339-347. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436419873337
Ibid.
Shu, Y. (2003). Reading the Kung Fu Film in an American Context; From Bruce Lee to Jackie Chan: [1]. Journal of Popular Film & Television, 31(2), 50. http://proxy.library.vanderbilt.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/reading-kung-fu-film-american-context-bruce-lee/docview/199355247/se-2
McCormack, P. (Director). (2012). I Am Bruce Lee [Film]. Shout! Factory.
Ibid.
Shu, Y. (2003). Reading the Kung Fu Film in an American Context; From Bruce Lee to Jackie Chan: [1]. Journal of Popular Film & Television, 31(2), 50. http://proxy.library.vanderbilt.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/reading-kung-fu-film-american-context-bruce-lee/docview/199355247/se-2
Ibid.
Ibid.
Leung, H. S. (2015). Cultural Politics, Marketing, and Asian Identity: The Case of Bruce Lee. Popular Communication, 13(2), 109-130. https://doi.org/10.51244/2461248239437
Chan, J. W. (2000). Bruce Lee's fictional models of masculinity. Men and Masculinities, 2(4), 371-387. http://proxy.library.vanderbilt.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/scholarly-journals/bruce-lees-fictional-models-masculinity/docview/38894087/se-2
Barrowman K. (2019). Lessons of the dragon: Bruce Lee and perfectionism between East and West. Global media and China, 4(3):312-324. doi:10.1177/2059436419865797
Ibid.
Daryl, J. M. (2017). Nomad of the Transpacific: Bruce Lee as Method. American Quarterly, 69(3), 741-761. https://doi.org/10.1353/aq.2017.0059
McCormack, P. (Director). (2012). I Am Bruce Lee [Film]. Shout! Factory.
Ibid.
Ibid.
Pellerin, E. (2019). Bruce Lee as director and the star as author. Global Media and China, 4(3),339-347. https://doi.org/10.1177/2059436419873337
Lung-Amam, W. (2017). Trespassers? : Asian Americans and the Battle for Suburbia / Willow Lung-Amam. University of California Press,. https://doi.org/10.1525/9780520967229
Chen, Y. S. (2014). Becoming Bruce Lee: Visions of the Asian American Experience in Bruce Lee’s Biopic. Journal of Asian American Studies, 17(2), 203-224. https://doi.org/10.32479/irmm.14023
Media Credit
Artist Unknown via https://wallpaper.mob.org/pc/image/celebrity-bruce_lee-718480.html
Artist Unknown via https://gifdb.com/gif/disgusted-bruce-lee-expression-034mkbautqlh0jw6.html
Poster for the film I Am Bruce Lee. 2012, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1954299/
Photo from the film Fists of Fury, https://www.pbs.org/weta/asian-americans/figures/bruce-lee/
Photo by Andrew Nguyen via https://blog.blackwing602.com/dragon-the-life-and-legacy-of-bruce-lee-part-i/
Photo by Audrey Yap via https://variety.com/2019/film/features/bruce-lee-once-upon-a-time-in-hollywood-dan-inosanto-1203287237/
Photo by Bruce Rutledge via https://napost.com/2018/growing-up-with-bruce-lee/
Artist Unknown via https://wifflegif.com/gifs/277476-enter-the-dragon-bruce-lee-movie-gif
Good Morning America. Jackie Chan talks about his most harrowing film stunts and working with Bruce Lee [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/JaJtaS4M4BA
Artist Unknown. Bruce Lee Philosophy [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/nzQWYHHqvIw
NBC News. Voices: Bruce Lee as a Role Model, ‘Idol’ | NBC Asian America [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/kuqt_8K4nE4
TODAY. Bruce Lee’s daughter talks father's impact on Asian representation [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/mvIWlTAaKLc
Photo by Conius via https://thptnganamst.edu.vn/total-66-imagen-bruce-lee-gifs/