Pui Chan: Kung Fu Pioneer
September. 01,2012
Step into the extraordinary life of a Chinese immigrant who overcame the challenges to achieve the American dream. This biography follows the path of a young boy who learns the value of hard work and perseverance through kung fu training. He escapes the harshness of political oppression, bravely ventures out on his own, and embraces opportunity in a new land. The now highly recognized Grandmaster Pui Chan is one of the pioneers responsible for bringing traditional kung fu to America. He built his first kung fu temple in America, and leads and internationally renowned martial arts system across the world. Pui's eldest daughter and successor Mimi Chan confronts a new set of challenges, trying to keep the traditional values alive in an increasingly modernized era.
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Reviews
good film but with many flaws
Don't Believe the Hype
an ambitious but ultimately ineffective debut endeavor.
There are moments that feel comical, some horrific, and some downright inspiring but the tonal shifts hardly matter as the end results come to a film that's perfect for this time.
This biography of a living Kung Fu Grandmaster, by his exceptionally talented daughter, shows how a skillful Kung Fu artist resisted oppression and survived multiple challenges to plant and grow Wah Lum Kung Fu in a new country. The skill, and compassion of Pui Chan shine through this documentary produced with love, and respect. Learn about the early days of Pui Chan in China, the government restrictions that impacted his life. See how he escaped as a young man and struggled in a new and foreign land. Learn how he met his wife, and grew his school into an internationally recognized and respected system. Meet a living Grandmaster with great heart, unsurpassed skill, and incredible talent. See how Grandmaster Pui Chan has replanted, and nourishes his Kung Fu system, and how thrives today in its home in the United States, as well as worldwide.
This movie is not about Kung Fu like you know it through the movies and T.V.. This is partially the story of how a country can turn its back on its own traditions and its own citizens, as China did during the Cultural Revolution, and yet the traditions find a way to live on, and even flourish, through the lives of the same people that were outlawed. It is also the story of the spirit that drives people to overcome adversity, despair, and dis-advantaged circumstances, the spirit that produces perseverance, dedication,and determination.Pui Chan is not just a Master of Kung Fu, but a living symbol of the deeper meaning of Kung Fu. Pui Chan's life shows how a continual belief in hard work and intrinsic self-value can produce a life lived like Art, in this case also a life in the Martial Arts.
This is truly an inspiring movie. Pui Chan risked his life to come to the United States, yet never lost sight of his roots. His life story is amazing. He combined cleverness with his martial arts training to survive many overwhelming moments. You will chuckle at some of them, but be moved to tears at others. This is a well conceived and executed film, set in the many scenes of Grandmaster Chan's life. I respected the man before seeing this movie, but love him more now. He makes Kung Fu look effortless, and is in incredible shape. I have seen him do in person what was done in the movie, and there is no trick photography! He really is THAT GOOD! His Kung Fu precision will amaze those knowledgeable in martial arts. His reverence for his homeland will touch those who hold traditions dear. His sense of humor will have you laughing. Really...a must-see indie film!
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