Bruce Lee Letters (Again), Tarantino, Yip Man Wooden Dummy | The Kung Fu Genius Podcast #27

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for sticking around! The best way to support the Kung Fu Genius is here: Books by The KFG (Sifu Alex Richter): www.citywt.com/shop Monthly Theory and Q&A Class: www.citywt.com/training-videos Training in NYC: www.citywt.com Online Private Training: www.citywt.com/private-wing-tsun-lessons-online Immersion Courses: www.citywt.com/immersion-course-w-sifu-alex

[@sash9249]

Hey man, I put something together about QT and Bruce Lee. Check this out: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2W5ooWilNCXhMU

[@sardalamit]

What you discussed about "Cleaning up Live Sparring" is one of the best breakdown and explanation I have heard on how to approach drills vs sparring. In Weightlifting too we suffer from the same issue of trying to make our lifts look efficient/ picturesque rather than focusing on what really matters- moving the damn weight!

[@sdog2006]

This is a great podcast, man. I've been a Lee superfreak for 40 years and I knew that he was FAR from a saint (Hell, the guy said it himself). Were the letters a stunner? Yes, but more so because it took half a century for all this to come out in the wash. It was like a bucket of cold water to the face! Do I think any less of Bruce Lee because of it? Absolutely not. Truth be told, and without going into too much detail, I've trained hard for the vast majority of my life, but I've also got a bunch of skeletons in my closet. People need to chill and understand that cocaine wasn't frowned upon the same way in the early 1970s. Sure it was illegal, but it was a drug associated with the Hollywood elite and Lee was using both that AND hashish/ grass for creativity purposes. There weren't the same health concerns with cocaine at that time. There weren't the same links to the drug funding slavery at that time. People's noses weren't falling apart. All of this came later, so judging Lee on today's parameters makes absolutely no sense.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you for this awesome comment!

[@arthurbrown2075]

Agreed the drugs today are even worse than back then not saying it was right but definitely a lot worse today

[@blackmambawingchun]

Fascinating discussion. According to my Sigung, Wang Kiu, before the wooden dummy arrived they practiced the “live dummy”. It’s not actually holding your arms, one person has corresponding punches to each of the dummy movements. My Sifu Trenton Haggard knew the live dummy form and did it with us mainly because it was part of our lineage. The punches are basically thrown high and low, your partner does the techniques and then you switch. The reason this wasn’t kept alive because as soon as the dummy arrived everyone wanted to learn that, the live dummy was really a stand in. Thanks for sharing your stories as always. 🙏

[@melvinwells8350]

Love Sijo Lee, no matter what you can't take away his enormous continued impact!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Agreed

[@yonakaryu]

Love the Bruce Lee discussions. Even though I haven't seen the other stuff you do that doesn't really have Bruce Lee in your titles, keep doing the martial arts stuff and keep growing your channel. Take care :).

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you!

[@Ded9822]

I enjoy the commentary and the insights of KFG. Nice work.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you!

[@IlianNachev]

Great episode, guys! I loved the Ip Man’s insight! Lastly, I totally agree with you on Tarantino!

[@BaiLong45]

Couple of thoughts on this week's episode: 1) Ha, yes thank you for name-dropping Bruce Le! Got some of his films from a Suncoast Video for $5! Yeah, I know, I paid too much. 2) Your thoughts on the Ip Man films really resonated this episode. Hong Kong, China, and America have always made loose adaptations of Chinese folk heroes. Wong Fei Hung never went to the Wild West like in Once Upon A Time in China or America or Huo Yuanjia never had a deep friendship with a samurai like in Fearless. Bruce Lee never fought against a spiky faced demon for the soul of his son. The smart audiences get that. But we don't often hear how these films affect those who knew the individual. Hearing that a student of Ip Man doesn't feel a connection with the character on screen was disheartening. People's cherished memories are tossed aside for a better dramatic film. I get that. Still, it gets people to the door. On some small level people learn about Ip Man. Many Chinese people learn, which I take as win. I think more Chinese should know about these figures. Still, the film just brings them to the door. The expectation is that they'll go through the door and learn the truth. Again, another great episode Sifu Alex! Thank you! As for a question, just want to hear your opinion on the importance of forms in martial arts training. In what circumstances are they useful? In what circumstances are they unnecessary? And what role do they play in your Wing Chun curriculum?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Awesome comment as always!

[@BaiLong45]

@@TheKungFuGenius Thanks for the shout out! No problem!

[@stellastavropoulou5827]

I really like your stories. I like it even when you start answering a question and telling a story again. I always enjoy your podcasts!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you. Which stories did you like best in this episode?

[@stellastavropoulou5827]

@@TheKungFuGenius I like all the episodes and all the stories. I like the details of Yip Man's life and how much you know. I personally absorb any information. Also anything about Bruce Lee. Literally everything! My English is not good and I watch each episode two or three times. Stories from the time you practiced taekwondo are also fun. And many more...

[@Schwartzbruder1]

Dre's question picks were on point. Excellent Episode.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks! The new format with him picking the questions works great.

[@dreison133]

Cheers Schwartzbruder1! Glad u enjoyed the episode!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Don't forget to write your questions for the next Ask the Genius episode in the comments below. For those of you who have been living under a rock, the link to my Bruce Lee Drug Letters episode is here kzbin.info/www/bejne/o6qzaneogMyNlas Peace! The KFG

[@nagadigi3100]

Blessings you stay safe with deez bloodclot det trets! You keep up the great 💪works... and the covid got me... wicked stuff!

[@johnbauer4810]

What are John Little’s thoughts on the Bruce Lee’s Foundation/Estate with the recent letter release?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I've discussed it with him, but I would never speak for anyone else.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Read my first comment.

[@lorenzosteele2531]

@@maybewownow156 Exactly but can you really blame her most of her audience is the guys that think Bruce is a saint and who would want to talk shit on there own father. But I think those people are better than the haters lol.

[@postersandstuff]

@@lorenzosteele2531 At least with Presley the estate doesnt really try to hide Es downfall

[@axman5296]

“It's like a razor blade pointing towards the mirror. Don't concentrate on the razor blade or you will miss all that heavenly glory.”

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Lol

[@nicomazmarseille]

Thanks for answering my question. Another great episode ;-)

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for the great question!

[@wingchuninapplication6637]

I like the idea of beginners using the dummy and weapons to train techniques from the start so they get the proper feeling for rooting, structure, and accurate placement during application. Waiting too long to introduce them tends to lead to bad habits that have to be retrained away. What are your thoughts on the timing of introducing the dummy and weapons to facilitate proper understanding for application through feedback mediums?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great questions!

[@wingchuninapplication6637]

@@TheKungFuGenius The questions should be well thought if the answers are to make me think well.

[@ramondiaz2851]

Man!! Again you have amazing information!! Intelligence and language skills and of course my respect!!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you!

[@Dad_Brad]

I would guess Polly’s theory remains solvent. Heat stroke. The coke simply accelerated it.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Definitely, I think people can look at multiple factors instead of only one.

[@CharlesDamianoBLC]

Most likely multiple factors contributing to his death.

[@alfredleung3738]

@@CharlesDamianoBLC I would definitely agree to that. Factors such as stress & continuous deprivation of sleep, plus HK's high humidity condition during that time. His latest project ETD definitely took its toll on him, the man simply burned out. Just like burning two ends of a candle.

[@CharlesDamianoBLC]

@@alfredleung3738 So very true!

[@Dad_Brad]

Thank you for the replies. Charles, I am also a big fan of your channel and subscriber. These latest videos on BL have me sitting back watching on the big screen. Like Leeroy eating popcorn with chopsticks while watching ETD!

[@maykellavarreres8710]

Un saludo desde Cuba. Desde que me suscribi a este canal me ha ayudado a entender el mundo del Wing Chun y destruir muchos mitos creados a partir de leyendas. Gracias Sifu Alex Richter por su contribución.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

saludos desde nueva york! Gracias por tu amable comentario. ¡Espero que algún día podamos encontrarnos!

[@vortexsophia]

It's really fascinating to find out that the "scientified" dummy was really refined by GGM Yip Man and GMLT's era of WT. It did answer why the leg in those older photos was an actual branch. Everything in the history of WT ends up being not as old as the mind pictures. I always thought those GM Leung Ting and Sifu Kernspecht demo videos were way to the early part of the 70's.

[@vortexsophia]

Historical perspective often leaves out processing/rendering times from it's conclusive points

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great comment.

[@mikesoprano4994]

My question is what is the most legendary Bruce Lee moment in my opinion it was the 1 inch punch I just think that is the best display of how good he was and I’m curious about what you think his most legendary moment was

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I think his most legendary moments were not caught on camera

[@googlegoogle9712]

Drugs ruined a lot of legends. Im not surprised but it doesn’t take away anything from his iconic status. He was a very unique man.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

agreed

[@sandrocastro599]

Awesome !! Thanks for the answer to my question !

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you for the question!

[@supremekarate1]

You should try to get Mathew Polly on you podcast to discuss the Bruce Lee Drug letters

[@TheKungFuGenius]

We will see!

[@jamiebullock85]

Great episode Alex,what Bruce Lee,did in he's personal life,doesn't change the way I feel about the man,he's one of a kind,love he's martial arts,fitness regime,Philosophy,Movies,I do believe now,that the cerebral edema,was caused by the cocain use,keep up the good work mate.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you!

[@HDsharp]

Dont forget, in Bruce's hippy days, in that era, dabbling in drugs was the norm.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Ok, I won't forget.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Mind blowing information here

[@BaiLong45]

@@maybewownow156 Weak minded? I don't know if we can say that bro. Hollywood, fame, drugs, all of that, those are the temptations. Anyone could be susceptible to that. Even martial artists like Bruce. I don't fault him for that. I don't condemn him either. On contrary, for someone who goes through addiction, people should offer treatment and at the very least understanding. Bruce got caught up in bad situations. That doesn't make him a bad person. For me, his addiction is not a deal breaker.

[@HDsharp]

@@maybewownow156 Bruce like cheating on his wife and doing drugs, well thats nothing new in show business either. Everyone who is and was hip was doing drugs before the Mansons did that wretched killing.

[@nightmareknee942]

I'm sure if dig deep enough into all of our heroes personal business, there's gonna be things we don't like. These people we idolize are not infallible by any stretch of the imagination. They are only human, but they are extraordinary humans. Bruce is still very much my hero.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Well said

[@DickRileyTheConquistador]

Yea sure. But cocaine is pretty F-ing fallable.

[@postersandstuff]

@@DickRileyTheConquistador HBK and Janetty accused drugging/raping women , so yes , it can be worse than drug use :(

[@dwuonw6438]

Lol I f...king love it! I'm glad you put your take on Once apon a time, I would like to hear about birth of the dragon, the White washing lol

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for your comment! I have discussed Birth of the Dragon a few times, however I’m not sure which episodes those are on.

[@b0bbinat0r89]

Interesting episode! Funny that I haven't heard of the name Wing Chun until I saw Bruce Lee movies. Was only into Bruce Lee's JKD, not Wing Chun, until I saw Donnie's Ip Man.

[@BAMBAM-pz9hz]

True...ones interpretation of someone has a counterpart to someone whom dissected that same feeling of each of us....also separate, when i went further into knowing,No one is made famous on their own...especially a household name..Leee or Li was a prominent family mostly the mother from wealthy lineage...along with connections to bringing a kid actor from far east to american later and im of belief that nothing is by accident by household names via past and current famous celebs and top political ppl...this is what i try to emphasize..yes..talent and a story written as they do today on anyone is thinktank mgmt and concocted to give epic to normal....I apply that to lee as well...again, No one is in mainstream anything without a base of familes, masonic familes ,producers,directors, top sports ppl.. etc are with families and many brought in to which mgmt and storylines are written in about a character to write and create a person to make famous. Yes,in case of any person..the talent must be in there to a point by the rest is fabrication mega...again,familes of many prominent will have a child or so who is in music,sports,etc be groomed to be products just has hollywood has...started to notice the hand gestures and many symbols thst celebrities do and his is no different....some talent..yes...but i ramp it down because again..all if most is seasoned with storyline concoctions to envelope a celebrity and soon to be mega.

[@hotlanta35]

Bruce Lee was huge even after he died up until the early 90s

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for the tip

[@SteveWoodsGsy]

Great episode guys! 👍🏻

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you!

[@markharrell3602]

Great episode.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

thank you!

[@ramondiaz2851]

You are very realistic!! In truth!!

[@Markperna1]

Great episode Alex!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

thank you mark!

[@OutfrontStudio]

Great episode. Like the discussion of attributes and drill vs fighting analysis. Be great to ID all fighting attributes and discuss how to train them for Wing Tsun in particular- and potentially for WT vs WT and vs other styles (or non-WT street fighting). Thx Sifu. A

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@technocore1591]

Regarding the “first student” idea, think about what happens if the teacher evolves over time, those “first students” might not be there to receive that. Maybe the “last students” should have more weight when it comes to received knowledge.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

100% agree, but say this and watch “1st student/generation proponents” scream foul. Instead of pleading their case on the veracity of their methods, they often prop themselves up with these distinctions. Take away the distinction and what’s left?

[@technocore1591]

@@TheKungFuGenius So it's just status.

[@technocore1591]

Kung fu movies were a terrible influence on me with regards to learning real martial arts. We played "kung fu movies" a lot as kids, copying the old badly dubbed Hong Kong movies we'd see on TV after school. A lot. And I can't tell you how embarrassing it was when I started taking Wing Tsun and I'd catch myself making "PSHHT PSHHT" sounds when throwing punches. God so embarrassing. (did you ever catch students doing that?) I mean, hilarious but embarrassing. The biggest impact though, was I also had to fight the habit from those old movies was move, pause, move pause. I just never grew up.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Growing up is overrated.

[@Ded9822]

The truth will always be made manifest.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Hopefully!

[@jharker1000]

Nice balance in that approach. Part of my fanboy side cringes against this fueling the deluded narrative that Bruce wasn’t a real fighter. On the plus side, as you alluded to, is that those who know him, or of him, understand the era and his likely pain management as part of this.

[@bluez4u2]

The Yip Man WD story reminded me of a story I heard in the 90's about LT and KK. Apparently when KK rejoined LT's org again in the early 80's, they did some private training at the castle. Some students supposedly wanted to see the action and climbed the walls of Langenzell to watch. Apparently they were treated to KK trying to show LT some of the stuff he learned from JGlover and Jun Fan guys. LT proceeded to bloody or break KK nose. Any truth to this story?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

It’s partially true, but it wasn’t in front of other students.

[@gornallbell5459]

Another great episode! Totally agree regarding the Ip Man movies, I view them as the fantasy stories they are. Also Alan Lamb is a Geordie, from Newcastle upon Tyne not London, he was the teacher of my teachers sifu Trevor Jefferson.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

thanks for clarifying that - I shouldn't have assumed he was from there just because he learned WC there!

[@gornallbell5459]

@@TheKungFuGenius us Geordie's get about! 😂

[@ramondiaz2851]

Bruce was both! And YIP man as well!!! Instructor and defender!

[@sifubrianjewell5569]

Great Episode as always. I’ve written a couple of little books on the martial arts and want to do something a little more ambitious, like the history of Wing Chun on the East Coast. Where would you suggest I begin in my research? Also, I learned the answer to my next question when listening to an episode of Dudes of Kung Fu recently. But for those who don’t know could you explain why Wing Chun 101 isn’t available on your website even though it is referenced in your current books...

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for commenting! You’d probably need to interview all the OG’s like Sifu Jason Lau and Duncan Leung. Moy Yat’s son William is probably a good resource on his late father. WC101 will come out when it’s ready hahaha

[@sonnybrisbane66]

Really interesting point about coke use and the cerebral edema as a cause of death. It seems he had so much stuff flying about his system at the time of death that trying to balance it out became impossible. Still want to know why he was taken to the hospital that was far away instead of the one 10 minutes away that had already dealt with his May issue though, that's still bizarre.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for commenting. Bringing him to Queen Elizabeth (instead of nearby Baptist) Hospital may have a few subtle reasons, none of which make any particular sense in my opinion. Bruce was already dead at Betty’s apartment so in the bigger picture it didn’t matter. He was a DOA.

[@sonnybrisbane66]

@@TheKungFuGenius Was he certified dead at Betty's apartment, though? I'm not clear on that part, I know he was dead on arrival to the hospital. It may be a gap in my reading, but I don't remember if there was any official statement by a paramedic other than something along the lines of 'unresponsive'. I guess another question would be are paramedics allowed to certify someone as deceased in HK at that time? I have some kind of vague memory that Chow's personal doctor had been called, is that correct?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

He was dead in Betty’s apartment. Moving him to the hospital was a ruse to have him declared elsewhere (anywhere but Betty’s apartment).

[@ramondiaz2851]

Boy!! It would be something if you can get Linda Lee in your show!! About this topic. I would like to get her perspective on this!! KFG!!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I think after the drug letters video, I don’t think she would ever be on my show. I literally said she committed perjury, why would she come on my show? LOL.

[@robd1329]

Those letters are collateral damage of the past. Even linda asked for cocaine to be sent to bruce!

[@ramondiaz2851]

@@TheKungFuGenius I see!!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

That’s true

[@postersandstuff]

As likely to happen as marrying a supermodel.......

[@JKDVIPER]

Here's an idea. South paw .. right hand dai bong, high, near your jaw, sao left hand Bui gee twisting in to center. Right hand Bui gee left hand WU SAO outside the bui gee..Left hand FAK SAO whisking hand, back hander, and a GAU CHOY HOOK right hand with a spin . That's my viper kung Fu. A bit of it

[@ed008ue]

that's the generation of now, it is all about the emotions, not facts and evidence let alone the truth. it is sad to hear that Bruce was supplying a filthy habit, that may explain why he was so skinny in "Enter The Dragon"... and why Quentin Tarantino ain't so much of a fan of bruce lee anymore. he read Matthew Polly's book and his opinion of him changed. even me who is also a Bruce Lee fan, I'm disappointed that he had a "Blow" habit but I still admire and respect Bruce because he was human. to me, this revelation ends the Myth of Bruce Lee and questions his Widow and Daughter who are desperate to preserve his "Saintly" image let alone damage control on his image. Observation wise, I can see the handwriting in his letters looks like Bruce, some of his handwriting is done in a rush

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for commenting

[@danielwilliamson275]

I’m curious Sifu Richter what kinds of things you’d like to see upgraded about wing chun? I think there is a problem sometimes if the opponent feints and doesn’t over commit to a strike. Not just that but footwork feints as well seem to discombobulate the system. That could be just my limited understanding but I’d love to get your take on stuff like that.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great question

[@bertt1055]

To be honest, the feints, footwork, etc., would have been handed down by good teachers during everyday training. The cultural revolution caused most of the real fighters/teachers with experience to leave China or afraid to teach for years. Just research on Ming Dynasty General Qi Jiguang's 32 techniques - in many of his writings, he literally wrote to fake low to bring opponent's guard down, and then hit high. He also wrote about footwork. The drawings were also depicted with hands held high, meaning they knew about guarding the head. Somehow, somewhere along the way, things got lost.

[@danielwilliamson275]

@@bertt1055 that’s interesting but I meant reacting to feints not performing them per se. Coming from a boxing back ground, I find when I feint my training partners or use a bit of confusing footwork, it throws off their wing chun.

[@icanmanifest]

Do you have any links to the articles are interviews where Bruce Lee admitted cannabis use? Or links to the information on cocaine causing cerebral edema?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Look at page 65 of M. Uyehara's Incomparable Fighter for the admitted cannabis use. For cocaine and cerebral edema, do a google search. This article is a good overview, take in to consideration his convulsions and seizure on May 10th as well www.narconon.org/drug-abuse/cocaine/brain-damage.html

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Nothing too shocking, but interesting given recent news.

[@gimme5studio888]

A great episode again ! What's your feeling about Bruceploitation and all the clones like Bruce Li , Dragon Lee, Bruce Le, Bruce Liang etc...?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great question

[@fernandomaron87]

I think every big pop icon ends up with lots of clones from other Studios trying to cash in, like Marilyn Monroe who spawned Mamie Van Doren, Jane Mansfield and Elvis with Rick Nelson, Fabian etc.

[@postersandstuff]

@@fernandomaron87 Bruce Le moved better than Li imo

[@ror312gallery19]

is it possible, that bruce back injuries of , 1969, 13, august 1970, were too painful to the point that, he tried anything he could to overcome the pain? i was injured at work in 1992, aged 34 ,multiple disc herniated, i sought to get help after 2 years. i was prescribed addictive pain meds, oxycodone,,in 1994, then oxycontin in 2001. these meds did help me to acomplish myriad things in my life. i am still fighting to get off the opiates to this day. i can completely understand bruce determination to overcome the pain to live his life. in 1996, i began study of bruce and martial arts, and was able to work out, and perfect my skills, also taught myself to draw and paint, and many other great things. thank you kfg, love from italy robert

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Having discussed this topic (it has come up so many times since the drug letters video) with former cocaine users - cocaine is the most worthless thing you can take for back pain. His letters mention him using it for the creative process.

[@ror312gallery19]

@@TheKungFuGenius thank you, alex, love from italy,robert

[@jeffgovernale7062]

The late Sifu John "Rick" Allen was a huge critic of both wing chun and jeet kune do. He was all about just about any traditional Chinese style but wing chun. If you know who Allen was, I might suggest a show about Allen. One of my fellow wing chun pupils was a huge fan of Allen and his teacher Gene Chicoine. Not every critic of wing chun or JKD is, or was, an MMA bro.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Haters and critics exist everywhere, I’m just discussing the current ones.

[@miguelc.819]

Another awesome episode, I had a question, I really loved the Wing Chun shown on Wong Kar Wai's "The Grandmaster", I was wondering what your thoughts were on the Wing Chun choreography in that movie, I know the story wasn't great, but, I thought the Wing Chun was on point. Thank you, big fan.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for the question

[@jancelconroy4720]

This was by far a hilarious Episode. To be honest about the Bruce Lee drug issue. We need to put things into perspective. He technically lived in an age of exploration. We kids of the eighties and nineties Come from a generation that was Is oppressed culturally and mentally. It's the sexual revolution and it's experimentation experimentation culture was the next coming administrations and their laws. This is just speculation but just like any athlete . It was probably experimenting with different drugs that he could use perit could use. John little Then his interview with you. If you even was doing steroids That would be cutting edge because of the fact that no one at that time period was doing it. I can definitely see why he would do the marijuana. I always thought he was a busy body. A purpose always was in his head and probably coming down from this concept was tough. It's actually more impressed now that he actually did these drugs. Please bring me back to One of his saints used no way as a way and have no limits as limitation. Do bad heat and write notes on his drug or psychedelic experiences.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@ctlefler8684]

What's your favorite Skyrim build? How about the other guys in the booth? What's your Dragonborn?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thank you for commenting, it helps the algorithm

[@ctlefler8684]

@@TheKungFuGenius Happy to help, KFG. Love the show!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I had to Google those things in your comment, I’m not any closer to knowing what it’s about LOL.

[@ctlefler8684]

@@TheKungFuGenius It's an interesting litmus test for how someone views the world, sees themselves, and tackles goals. However, if you haven't played Skyrim, it's a moot point. 😄

[@TheKungFuGenius]

@@ctlefler8684 OK, I'll have to look into it - I've never been much into games - card, board, video or otherwise so I'm always the guy who never gets these references.

[@JKDVIPER]

6:53 he was human? Anything is possible with humans? We all have some kind of time in our life where we weren’t living up to what we could be.” I don’t judge cuz it’s all about where you are now?”

[@prettyflyforafilipin]

That koo sang rabbit hole was dope! For sec, i thought you’re related to the comic book artist George Perez and that he did wing chun (that would be insane). AMA: speaking of wooden dummies, what’s the difference between leveled and the uneven configuration of the arms?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

That’s a good question!

[@prettyflyforafilipin]

@@TheKungFuGenius i foresee the response: buy my book on the wooden dummy! 😂

[@TheKungFuGenius]

You are learning young Padawan

[@prettyflyforafilipin]

@@TheKungFuGenius yes! 🙌🏻 i still hate sand!

[@cyborgchicken3502]

Apparently it is also said that Yip Man himself had an opium habit which may have contributed to him developing cancer later in life...I think the issue is that many "fanatics" and even critics forget that the people they idolise or ostracize are human beings that have flaws, inner demons, trauma, pain and in general make mistakes....nobody knows what went through Bruce's mind that led him to abuse drugs, was it influence? Did he have some sort of personal pain or issues that he wanted to numb or forget? I think it's unfair for anyone to judge or downplay, it should rather serve as a reminder that even our greatest heroes sometimes fall from grace and have moments of weakness or sin, if anything it should be a humbling experience as opposed to a shocking revelation or a chance to destroy his legacy....by the way how much knowledge of the Hong Kong film industry do you have? Would be nice to see you do more content based on that as well

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Yip Man’s cancer was most likely due to his chain smoking unfiltered cigarettes. His opium habit was worse in the late 50’s (around the time when Bruce was learning). He tapered his habit considerably by the mid-60’s but he still smoked a lot.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for you suggestion on the film stuff. I do have some things planned.

[@cyborgchicken3502]

@@TheKungFuGenius oooh I see...I assumed it was the opium that caused his cancer... definitely looking forward to the film stuff, I love learning about the history behind Martial arts films and Hong Kong films, they're basically the reason why action in general has evolved into what it has now, it was one of the reasons I started to follow your channel...you definitely have a lot of knowledge of these subjects.

[@BRUCEJJ66]

Regarding the recent Bruce Lee revelations, I wonder if Matthew Polly might consider releasing a revised version of his Bruce bio in light of this new info? Somehow I don't think Linda or Shannon would be open to giving new interviews! Any chance you could Polly him on your show? As for Tarantino's take on Bruce Lee, I completely agree that he should just admit that the"Once Upon A Time In Hollywood" (overall, I enjoyed that movie, too, though I thought the ending was sad, we knew that wasn't how things went, unfortunately) version of Bruce Lee was fictionalized, but it seemed a bit hypocritical of Shannon to complain about that considering the fact that all the Bruce "bio" pictures she & her Mom have endorsed (including "Dragon: The Bruce Lee Story") have been highly fictionalized, too!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Thanks for commenting. Unlike my books which I self publish, Polly writes for a big publisher. It’s not easy to just “write another book“ or “do a second edition“. His books are super corporate, and I doubt they’re just gonna wanna revise the whole thing after four years.

[@CharlesDamianoBLC]

Great points

[@mikomon309]

It's not hypocritical for Shannon to complain about QT pissing on the memory of her father. Did those endorsed bios piss on Bruce? Of course not. Big difference. Oh yeah... FUCK QT.

[@luisvelazquez5420]

Great Episode, Great Stuff. Thank you Sifu Alex for some good information.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pablojose9582]

You have a cousin named George Perez? Does he write comics, by any chance? :D

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Hahah not that George Perez lol

[@BaiLong45]

Ha, thought I'd be the only one that got that reference! Thought that Sifu Alex was related to the comic book legend himself!

[@JKDVIPER]

12:44 you are a professional martial artist and journalist ... no apologies needed. Maybe give Linda a break on the fraud thing because she may be a totally different person these days (an angel) and like I said, we the public would want to know. But now that it’s out. Let’s all try to make sure none of this hurts Linda or Shannon. I don’t judge either side. Everybody should talk it out I feel

[@sash9249]

Tarantino isn't so much a fan of Bruce Lee as he is of exploiting Bruce Lee.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Agreed

[@LCSQSB]

Hi Alex...what is you opinion on "internal wing chun" ? Is there any truth to it?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great question

[@LCSQSB]

@@TheKungFuGenius Let me know when you will answer it in which podcast...thanks !

[@TheKungFuGenius]

It’s gonna be in the new year - we just finished recording all episodes for the rest of 2021!

[@duelo1ne]

My pursuit of the next level has led me down some wrong streets. Iv'e used this in anything from speed trials to art amassment and advanced thinking . i looked for years for evidence of this knowing there is a level unattainable for the mortal but also knowing the limitations for sustainability. " absorb what is usefull and discard what is useless". Whether someone is advanced through chemical, mental or physical means, they are still advanced.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

When you reach final level, your mind body and soul become one. You will get the glow.

[@duelo1ne]

@@TheKungFuGenius ive glowed colours never before seen. the only thing i haven't acheived is death. although ive practised many forms of it the final moves are way too extreme while i love this journey. thank you for your comment, love and respect. Zhǐyǒu qiángzhě cáinéng shēngcún. Lǐmiàn zhùzhe zhēnxiàng.

[@duelo1ne]

@@TheKungFuGenius kzbin.info/www/bejne/bnWTXoZ_ophka5I my glow

[@cestrell]

Dre needs to snack on some Horse D' Ovaries ;-)

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Hahaha

[@garryjohnson4201]

Bruce Lee will always be my hero and inspiration… he was only human and I’m good with that, think about Jean Claude Van damme,s life style!!!! He was out of control in his private life and everyone still loves him too

[@rw7269]

It was the 60 s early 70 s I wonder how many other celebrities used coke secretly ?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Good question

[@jdjjdjd2667]

Wow Sifu 😯! Anthony Wong played a better Ip-Man than Donnie Yen? Ip-Man is an iconic role thanks to Mr Yen 👏👏

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I’m talking from an acting and story perspective.

[@ramondiaz2851]

I just want to know if Bruce's energy was coming from the drugs or he was born with that incredible energy!!! Or BOTH!!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Don’t forget that this hard-core drug use happened in the last two years of his life. Let’s not forget that he had a career before that time too.

[@robd1329]

I think he was born with incredible energy..but...the last 2 yrs really show his drug use. He was really underweight and know we know why. I always thought it was from working out..but it makes sense now that he used drugs

[@fernandomaron87]

Watch him on The Green Hornet, he was already a freak of speed and style, the drugs just took him to the super sayan level we saw in Enter the Dragon and The Game of Death

[@christiancreasy5268]

This was a great episode! Here a fun question. If you eat cheat meals, what is your favorite cheat meal? I hope one day I can get to come to New York to train you with guys!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Awesome question.

[@alfrankson7826]

Over 50years, he left us. We were all inspired by B,Lee one way or another, he was shit hot! What gain is it by putting him down now??

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Amen

[@JKDVIPER]

29:40 I agree. If we bridge with these people. It always looks just like basketball. They look punked as we steal the ball and go for a layup. This is why they argue mostly on here. I don’t argue and troll because I’d be a bully that way? I can show up n do this stuff live like it’s not a big deal. Again. If I’m a plumber by trade? I’d better be able to unclog a drain or gas pipe a furnace.

[@alfredleung3738]

Did you guys see that photograph of Bruce Lee with a big lump on the side of his neck?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

The autopsy photo?

[@alfredleung3738]

@@TheKungFuGenius Yes sir...

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I had a medical doctor look at that - most likely a result from the autopsy

[@alfredleung3738]

@@TheKungFuGenius Thank you for the info!

[@jdjjdjd2667]

Sifu? About " Once A Upon A Time In Hollywood "I 💚 the 🎥 👌. Tarantino let his emotions digress the main conclusion of the story. I thought Tarantino had 🧠 enough to say " it's art imitating life!" " The Manson kids did go to the other 🏡!" Bruce's part in the story should be looked upon like a supporting role ( in our reality Bruce gave Sharon Tate lessons 4 the part she played in The Misfits 📽 & he attended her funeral, also, The Lees lived a few blocks away from that horrible crime the killers committed to Sharon & her friends) This movie is a "What If "of sorts & we have Rick Dalton to thank. It was HE who redirect the killers to his 🏡 . What If Manson killers went to TV action 🌟 's 🏡 instead of the film director & his pregnant wife's 🏘

[@sash9249]

That's exactly right. "Bruce" the character was only there to support the narrative that came from Tarantino's wet dreams.

[@jdjjdjd2667]

@@sash9249 Wet 🌊dream 🌈?? Sash they don't seem too appropriate to say 😉!! Bruce was a looking guy & probably had "suitors "of the same sex as he! Tarantino putting BL's fans just makes his problems worse

[@JKDVIPER]

45,000 views nice dog

[@joshblack2570]

Could you direct me to Bruce admitting to marijuana use in the interview you mentioned? Thanks

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Incomparable Fighter with Mito Uyehara.

[@anthonytidwell7155]

Please tell me what you think Bruce lee died of ?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Ate too many potato chips

[@whonowsus]

Do you remember 1980s movies Kill or be Killed - and Kill and kill again starring James Ryan ? i used to love those two movies llolol but mite be crap now if i watched them now lol

[@TheKungFuGenius]

I did not see those movies - any good?

[@vortexsophia]

But i loved the ninja episode!

[@vortexsophia]

ok, the outtakes alone were a hit by themselves watching Dre's reactions

[@TheKungFuGenius]

The one person who did lol

[@vortexsophia]

@@TheKungFuGenius so what about " the amazing sexploit adventures of ashida kim". Because that'd be a trip

[@vortexsophia]

I have a good nostalgic affection for Steve James and Michael Dudikoff 80's stuff in general but American Ninja 2 is just epic

[@TheKungFuGenius]

The Amorous Adventures of Ashida Kim

[@ramondiaz2851]

I never seen a picture of Bruce with a cigar or smoking in that manner!! But I still love him !! BL.

[@rw7269]

Imagine actors that took coke had they’re academy awards took from them because they used coke to get into character.i don’t think coke would have helped physical performance but I could be wrong because it is a banned substance in the Olympics etc.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great comment. I think Bruce wrote that coke helped him write rather than act.

[@rw7269]

@@TheKungFuGenius I thought he wrote that he took it to help him get into character ?

[@nathanieljeffers3334]

He did not take Drugs or Koke

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Because you wrote it in a comment it’s “real”

[@JKDVIPER]

So much trash on social media in martial arts. A guy who teaches wing chun teaching girls to step off the line on a rushing guy attacker. No two hands in? No strikes to the neck n eyes? Just dancing I guess? If you only step aside .. he’ll do it again (new entry) and now we’re dancing?? Lol

[@flaviusmaximus2051]

What did he die of again?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

The Illuminati got him

[@jdjjdjd2667]

Sifu Alex? I think Samuel Hung , Har Fung On & Yip Chun ( Yip Man's son ) worked & trained Donnie Yen to be the grand-master . I liked all 4 Ip-Man movies 🎥 & to the world 🌎? Donnie was fantastic 👏 👌!! What I don't like is Yip Chun changing his family name from Yip to Ip-Man ! Life should never imitate art 📽.,

[@Garywball09]

Thank you for sharing the letters. I am 59 years,a big fan of Bruce Lee, And the whole martial arts community. I could say that he was my 1st.teacher as I was self taught studying all of bruce's move back in the day, In west Baltimore, and then when I got older and could afford to go to a dojo, I have studied martial arts off and on probably most of my life! These letters Does not change how I feel about Bruce Lee and his legacy!

[@jdjjdjd2667]

Garywball09 I was a student of the man who taught me to view him as a window to the world of martial arts. It's a Bruce Lee type of self discovery & paving ones own path. I a self taught Wing Chun practitioner now. I have the knowledge of a master, yet, the still set of a student.

[@k14michael]

He was asking for Coca Cola! It’s hard to get authentic Coca Cola drink in Hong Kong. You guys are way off.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Hahaha

[@postersandstuff]

@@TheKungFuGenius Nah , hes into texan coke : Dr Pepper ;)

[@ramondiaz2851]

If Bruce was alive!! Tarantino would think twice!! Boy!! He would!!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Who cares about QT?

[@1JacKaL1984]

Gordon Liu had a stroke?....SAD!!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Indeed! That happened in 2011

[@adolfogonzalez1305]

Great episode. The segment of studying WT when coming from another martial art spoke to me because I have this problem. I study WT and Fu Jow Pai so from time to time I am corrected when performing drills. My question for the next AMA… besides Bruce Lee, which other martial arts actors do you believe made an impact for Kung Fu in the US (or for yourself)? Personally for me it is Jet Li (Kiss of the Dragon / Lethal Weapon 4), Michelle Yeoh and Zhang Ziyi (Couching Tiger Hidden Dragon), and more recently the actors from Warrior Andrew Koji, Olivia Chong, and Joe Taslim.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Great question!

[@DacaTainoKiskeya]

If Tarentino removed the Bruce Lee scene the movie still sucked. I don't understand what people like about this movie.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Movie tastes are very subjective. I liked the flamethrower at the end, but then again I’m a child.

[@DacaTainoKiskeya]

@@TheKungFuGenius Classics Tarentino movies. Pulp fiction, kill Bill 1 & 2, Reservoir Dogs, Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight etc etc. Those movies I watched many times. Even back to back. Once Upon a Time In Hollywood I was like when is this peace of garbage going to end. In my opinion Tarantino worst work. BTW Sifu Enjoying the podcast. I am actually watching #28 now.

[@JoelEZ1]

Ninjas are awesome! Comment 420 bro! 🤪

[@latetodagame1892]

What is this?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Your handle fits you perfectly

[@nathanieljeffers3334]

He never took drugs or Coke cane

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Love the evidence you present

[@dragondragons]

I never have anything other than an open mind in all things, anything can be not what it looks or sounds like, anything can be forged ,so I and hopefully others will not believe 100% untill proven ,and the letters that elude to coke ,acid etc ,just ironically are not on headed letters ,they look more as if could be forged ,only saying as it is as I says,I not a crazy fan boy ,I a open minded untrusting in some humans that wouldn't hesitate to make money from unreal letters ,I will also consider Bruce did as the letters explain ,but just food for thought the coke letters are bit ironically on crap paper ? And how many autographed material isn't authentic ,yet sold as such .there's my views

[@TheKungFuGenius]

What you believe is up to you.

[@axman5296]

How come Linda Lee Cadwell and Shanon Lee, to my knowledge, haven't commented on the letters? If these were faked letters don't you think these two particularly Linda (since she was implicated) would be raising hell?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Absolutely

[@dragondragons]

@@axman5296 yes that is also a point I am pondering ,still time though to get her response , although Shannon seems to say more in her father's legacy currently, let's see what transpires

[@dragondragons]

@@TheKungFuGenius I'm still on the fence at moment Alex ,and great podcasts as always

[@AlienAI51nomad]

Cubano 😇🤙

[@TheKungFuGenius]

🇨🇺🇨🇺🇨🇺

[@riverdean7]

jeez wat are we gonna learn next about bruce lee? that him and linda had regular 3 ways with james coburn?

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Let’s hope that revelations end with these letters lol

[@williamstevens6135]

Tom Bleeker, sure like to cosip like a old lady. That peeking out the window. I bit his friends learn to be careful what they do or say.

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Good to know

[@robd1329]

Who would of thought bruce did cocaine?? Wow..the letters say it all!

[@TheKungFuGenius]

Seems that way!

[@robd1329]

@@TheKungFuGenius it makes sense now. His weight dropped to featherweight class in his last 2yrs. It was the cocaine did the trick in making him look well defined...i always thought it was from working out non stop. I should have known better..even i do tons of boxing cardio and cant drop weight like he did!