Remake not happening, more of a sequel and new direction
Like many of you, the original film, which was made in 1985, is a classic and it shouldn't be touched. However, so many of us have questions about what happens once the film ends.
If I could describe this film to someone who has never seen it, I'd say that this film is the essence of the 80s. The original script was written by Louis Venosta. I met with Venosta myself, and asked if I could write the sequel. This was back in 2006, long before the RZA was involved or even mentioned a remake.
If you have access to Youtube, please check out THE LAST DRAGON fan commentary, which was created by myself and a writing partner.
Venosta did not intend for Leroy to be such a sensitive character. He envisioned more of a serious fighter. Berry Gordy is the person who is actually responsible for the humor, and the sensitive character that is possessed by the protagonist, Bruce Leroy.
The actor who played Leroy, Taimak, has his own unique story, which is compelling and you'll understand why he deserved the role. You can read it on Kung Fu Cinema, google THERE IS ONLY ONE BRUCE LEROY and you'll find my interview with him.
As I mentioned, I sent a script to the RZA in California, back in 2007. I wrote a separate story about a modern day protagonist based in New York City. The title of the story is MASTERNEVER AND THE FLOW OF DEATH. I mentioned in my letter that the Last Dragon had been one of my influences. I'm not saying that the RZA did not already want to remake the movie, but he has never mentioned it over the years.
After I met with Louis Venosta, I realized that a new story needed to be made.
Reason being is that the LAST DRAGON, is a metaphor for the 80s. A time when people would really loose themselves in alternate personalities. Hip Hop was still in its infancy and there was a mixture of rock, rap, r&b and pop. Back then, more people wanted to be like Micheal Jackson, then Kanye West.
So now, the remake has been announced and Samuel Jackson has been asked to play the role of Sho'nuff. Although he has agreed, he has mentioned that he has never seen a script. I've heard that in Hollywood, once you announce a film and if nothing happens in a year, the project is dead.
Having that been said, I would encourage everyone to please read my book. I've placed the book and soundtrack online. You can find it by googling MASTERNEVER AND THE FLOW OF DEATH.
When I met with Taimak, he intimated that he had a role in the upcoming film, but would not say what it was. So the film is more of a sequel and not really a remake. Most of us want closure and hopefully this is what we will get in the "remake." As I mentioned, I don't think a remake is necessary. Elements of the film, will be impossible to reintroduce. For one, the music supervision is excellent. The 80s soundtrack is timeless and that kind of music does not exist now.
It is fitting that I mention The Last Dragon soundtrack because, while I was on this very message board four years ago, I was looking for music that did not appear on the soundtrack. This would contribute to my journey to write the sequel.
We're ready for a new story.