Chris Evangelou: After a bad hand injury I was forced to take a long time out of boxing. I found myself going back to my first love of acting. I quickly started to book roles and landed an agent. I realised that this was still a passion of mine and decided this is what I want to do.

Budomate: What titles and ranks did you achieve in your boxing career, and how did it all start?

Chris Evangelou:

• X6 international Gold Medals
• 2006ABAs
• Professional International welter-weight masters title

I had n argument outside my college. I wasn’t was confident as I would have liked to be so I decided to start boxing to gain confidence. That’s really how it all started.

Budomate: Which boxing legends have you met throughout your travels, and who’s your idol?

Chris Evangelou: Mike Tyson was always a boxing idol of mine, I did get to meet him in Vegas when I was training at The Mayweather camp. That same week I got to meet Mayweather too. I’m friends with Freddie Roach, as I trained with him and Jesse Reid Sr just before I turned pro.

Budomate: Shifting to your film career, how did you land your first acting role?

Chris Evangelou: I joined websites that posted acting roles, which I could apply for without an agent. My first big role was a Samsung commercial. It’s very hard at the start of acting career, but you have to keep persistent and not lose hope.

Budomate: You played a boxer Primetime in Guy Ritchie’s The Gentlemen. What was it like working with a legend like Guy Ritchie?

Chris Evangelou: It was one of the best experiences of my life. Working with one of my favourite directors felt like a dream. As Lock stock and Snatch are two of my favourite films, it was a honour to be a part of Guy Ritchie’s collection of gangster films. Loved playing Primetime!

Budomate: Could you tell us about Shadow Boxer, the short film you wrote and produced? What’s the story behind it, and why should people watch it?

Chris Evangelou: Shadow Boxer was a story that I wrote, which was inspired by my experiences in my career and life. It was a way of me showing the world that a boxer, whose tough, durable, strong and disciplined can still suffer with mental health problems and anxiety. It’s a great one shot film that I think people would understand and some might reside with.

Budomate: In 2020, you worked on the TV show Devils for Sky Originals. Can you tell us a bit about that experience?

Chris Evangelou: I played a Hitman on Devils, it was a great experience to be on a show like that. It was fast paced and I had to run a lot!

Budomate: You also appeared on BBC’s EastEnders—can you share more about your role there?

Chris Evangelou: I played a boxer called Troy, I actually really enjoyed playing this role. I would have loved to have seen more of Troy in Eastenders, maybe that will happen one day. Working on such an iconic soap was a great experience, especially speaking with actors that Ive watched growing up.

Budomate: Recently, you played Harry Felix in the TV series La Máquina. Can you talk about that character and the show?

Chris Evangelou: I play the world champion boxer from London, Harry Felix. What an experience that was. 2 months of my life in Mexico, dedicated to the show. I prepared as if I was in a training camp, it was very intense. Attending the Hollywood and Mexican Premieres was really aa dream come true.

Budomate: If you could star in a remake of any famous martial arts film, which one would you choose?

Chris Evangelou: One of my favourite martial art films growing up is The Drunken Master with Jackie Chan. Id definitely love to remake that.

Budomate: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Chris Evangelou: I train a lot, almost everyday. I love going out to eat but my favourite thing to do to relax is go to the cinema. I can just switch off for a couple hours.

Budomate: And finally, what are three recent movies you’d recommend people to watch?

Chris Evangelou: ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’, ‘A quiet place 3’, but the first one is the best. My last one isn’t too recent but ‘Upgrade’ is a really good film with a great story.

Joe: Sheriff Kelly is now involved in a deep and loving relationship with Jenny Gray (Kerry Goodwin) who was also in GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO. There are rumors of an upcoming marriage when she and her cousin Valerie are kidnapped by “compradores”. This puts Kelly and Ivan on the trail to save these and other kidnapped women from the slave trading band of thugs.

You’ve made 5 Westerns. What do you like about the genre? What’s the hardest part of making a Western?

Joe: I have had a lifelong love for the Western genre. I like them because the stories are often universal and timeless, dealing with subjects such as heroism, duty, honor, and ethics. They are much like Greek Mythology in that respect. The hardest part of shooting a Western is keeping it authentic. This does not mean every detail needs to be specifically appropriate to another time in history but the characters need to be authentic. Also, the choreography of all the action, which includes horses, fights, and gunplay, must be well planned in advance and can take much time to shoot.

Your Rio Bravo franchise is quite physical. Is there anything you do to change up your workouts to prepare for these kinds of stunts?

Joe: My workouts change all the time. One needs to regularly change the gym routine, adding weights, new routines, etc. My workout is basically strength training 4 or 5 times a week, cardio on off days. I also hike and I own a beautiful horse who I get to ride frequently.

What was your favorite scene to shoot?

Joe: I have two. The early scene with Cynthia Rothrock, Kerry Goodwin, and Irina Antonenko is a very nice one. I like the lighting and the interplay between the three of them. I also had a good time with the scene between Alexander Nevsky and me when we are discussing our plan. Excellent dialog by Craig Hamman in both scenes

How involved were you with the casting of the film?

Joe: Usually the casting is a collaborative process between Alexander Nevsky and myself. We discuss each character and have “wish lists” of actors we feel would be the best for each role. Fortunately, Alex knows just about every actor in this town, so we usually find exactly the right person for the right role.

Let’s talk about your working relationship with star Alexander Nevsky, who also produced the movie with you and co-wrote the story.

Joe: We are currently in production on our fourth movie together. I think what makes the partnership work is trust in each other’s judgement and we plan everything out in a strategy in advance (as much as we can). When we begin a production, many pieces of “the puzzle” are already in place.

Your new Western is quite popular on NBCUniversal’s Xumo Play streaming platform in North America. What do you think it is about Taken From Rio Bravo that is going to make it such a fast fan favorite action movie?

Joe: I believe the audience will love the scope of the film and its fun, outrageous action.

What was it like working with action legends Don “The Dragon” Wilson and Cynthia Rothrock?

Joe: This was a dream come true. These two were so professional and great fun to work with, I even got Cynthia to perform her signature spider kick. Having stars like this brings up the production level quite a few notches. Cynthia even went on to do her second Western after our production wrapped.

You’ve worked with fight choreographer Art Camacho several times now. Please describe your working relationship with him.

Joe: Art is another top tier pro. Always prepared, he arrives on set with the action concepts ready to execute. He also performs very well on spur of the moment creation. With a guy like this, I just give him his freedom and let him do his thing.

What can we expect to see in Last Heroes of Rio Bravo?

Joe: LAST HEROES OF RIO BRAVO will be even bigger in scope! The story will open up with our heroes going to a whole new location and meeting up with some very sinister villains. There will be some new characters as well as the favorites from the first two. Check out the character Ellen Teal (Tatiana Neva) in TAKEN. She will have an even bigger role in LAST HEROES.

Any other upcoming projects you can tell us about?

Joe: Yes. We are currently in production on THE WIDE WEST, a story that combines the Western and elements of Japanese culture such as Sumo and Martial Arts set in 1907. It is based on a true incident.

I also have my first book of fiction coming out on October 12. It is a novel version of my first feature length film (with quite a few surprises added) titled “A Prayer for the Damned and other Tales of The West”. It will be available on Amazon as well as select bookstores.

What is your favorite Western? What is your favorite Action film?

Joe: Favorite Western is THE OUTLAW JOSEY WALES. Favorite Action is TOTAL RECALL.

What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of you and the work you do on our screens?

Joe: I want them to have fun with all these movies and I hope it inspires the audience to enjoy more Westerns! Of course I am deeply grateful to all the audience for taking their time to watch whatever the genre is I continue to work in.

In 2019 she moved to Hollywood where starred in two horror movies Night of the Caregiver and Spooky+. Her recent role is the character of Arlene in the western movie Gunfight at Rio Bravo alongside Alexander Nevsky.

Besides her film career, she continues working as a model and runs her Youtube channel named Actress’s journal in Hollywood.

Social profiles:

1. https://www.instagram.com/anna_oris_la/
2. https://www.instagram.com/annaoris_official/
3. https://www.tiktok.com/@annaoris_official
4. https://twitter.com/anna_oris_
5. https://www.facebook.com/anna.orisik/
6. https://www.cameo.com/anna_oris
7. https://soundcloud.com/anna-oris-720411024
8. https://www.youtube.com/@MrsOrisik

How did the idea of GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO come about?

Alexander Nevsky and I were in discussion about doing a film together. He came up with the idea of combining elements of great action films in the context of a very stylized, spaghetti and/or traditional western. Screenwriter Craig Hamann created the original story with Alex and we were off!

What made you want to star as well as direct?

I usually appear in most of the films I direct. I enjoy the different challenges of being in front of the lens as well as behind the camera. It has become second nature for me to do both and I am having a wonderful time.

You’ve made a Western but sometimes it felt like a throwback to 80’s Action classics; what influences were behind it?

Certainly, the great action films of the 80’s and 90’s loomed large on this set. I mean look at who is in it! There was certainly a good deal of Sergio Leone vibe on that set, as well as a bit of Howard Hawks. In fact, our sheriff’s office set is an almost exact duplicate of the one in the 1959 classic RIO BRAVO.

It’s great to see you working with Alexander Nevsky; how did you guys meet?

Alexander and I met through film composer Sean Murray. Sean had already composed five film scores for Alexander and he was just then completing the score for my western PROMISE. The three of us had a meeting and Alexander and I hit it off immediately. We started planning this film right then.

You’ve got a fantastic cast: Nevsky, Matthias Hues, Olivier Gruner, Natalie Denise Sperl; can you talk about getting them all together?

From the beginning we wanted to get iconic giants who were identified with classic action. What could be better than the two stars from DARK ANGEL and SAVATE? Matthias (more sinister than ever!) and Olivier (truly heroic) were a blast to work with, wait till you see their action scenes.

After several discussions about the character of Nora, we called Natalie Denise Sperl. She is a real pro and brought her “A” game. Watch for Kerry Goodwin in the film as well. The combination of all this talent is electric.

What were the most challenging moments of working on the film?

The most challenging moments of shooting a film like this are always the action sequences, the choreographed fights, the gunplay and the horses. This is especially grueling when the temperature gets above 95! However, the job is always more pleasant when working with the great fight/stunt coordinator Art Camacho. Talk about a pro and a legend.

What’s the deal with the sequel? When should we expect Taken from Rio Bravo?

Expect more action, more epic, sweeping vistas! You will see some characters you already know, a few new, intriguing ones and the most vile bad guys ever. TAKEN FROM RIO BRAVO is already in the can and you should see it in the very near future. – Growing up, what were some of the Westerns that you loved the most?

Here’s a quick list of the westerns that informed my vision:

A FISTFUL OF DOLLARS
THE SEARCHERS
UNFORGIVEN
ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE WEST
THE WILD BUNCH
HIGH NOON
THE OUTLAW JOSEY WALES
DJANGO (1966)

GUNFIGHT AT RIO BRAVO is out now in North America. Would you like to say something about who you’re hoping the audience is for this film?

I am counting on action fans as well as classic western fans will watch. Certainly it will appeal to those who are curious what the mash up of these two genres might look like. Most importantly. I hope the audiences have fun!

Thank you for you time today and your continued support!

Budomate: You have phenomenal kicking skills, could you please tell what or who led you to martial arts and which arts have you been studying?

Brahim: Thank you for the nice words about my kicking skills. I started martial arts after watching a Jackie Chan movie called First Strike back when I was 14 years old.

At the time there wasn’t a lot of options around my house so I took up Aikido first at 14 years old and added Karate Wado Ryu cause I wanted striking more than joint locks.

Two years later I discovered tricking through a friend of mine who took me to watch a tricking competition. I fell in love with it and focused on that side for many years. My kicking and acrobatic background purely came from tricking. I never took gymnastic and my style for flipping is really trickster oriented.

When I started my film career I realized a lot of the tricking kicks and acrobatics needed to be adjusted for movies and camera angles so I adapted my style for film work. I also studied Boxing a bit of Muay Thai and nowadays I train BJJ at least 4 times a week if I am not working.

Budomate: I’ve heard you have been tricking with a stunt group called Cascade. Could you tell about these guys and what they do?

Brahim: You did your homework I am surprised you know I started tricking with this group. Team Cascade is a group of martial artists who at the time had classes for kids who wanted to learn to trick and compete in musical forms.

Every one of the teachers came from a Taekwondo or Vovinam background. The main coach was Maurice Chan who still runs the group but nowadays it is more oriented on big events and also stunt work for movies in Europe. I trained there for 3 years.

Budomate: I suppose you are in the movies since 2007, how did you get into the business?

Brahim: I was teaching tricking in Paris on the weekends in a group called X Swipe. After travelling to the US and competing in a few tournaments over there, I thought it was time to stop doing tricking for fun and start to make a living out of it.

In 2006 I stopped competing and focused on trying to get into stunt work first in France but I quickly realized the market in France was controlled by a few older performers who kept young and hungry guys like me out. I went to a few castings and many times could not even cast so I got very depressed for a year and stopped putting efforts into it.

The owner of the X swipe school asked us if we wanted to go on a holiday to Thailand and do a casting for Ong Bak 2 at the same time. So the trip was fully paid and I did not have a job in France so I just packed my bag and followed my friends.

We landed in Bangkok completely exhausted I remember sleeping and waking up around 2 am. Walked outside and it was a cultural shock. I hated it at first and just wanted to leave. My friend told me we will leave after the casting was done so we went to the casting and of course we didn’t get it.

We met Tony Jaa, took a few pictures and most of the guys took the plane back to France to go back to their usual routine. My instinct told me to stay so I told my friends “Guys I am gonna stick around here for a bit more”.

My gut told me to stay and something was gonna happen here. After running out of money after 2 months I had to leave back to France but I managed to meet a few people who did movies there.

Went back to Paris found a few small jobs to save up money and in 2007 I packed my bag once again but this time I made a promise to myself – If I did not have a stable film career in 3 years I would quit and change job.

With a lot of hard work, I managed to make my dreams come true and until today still work in the film business.

Budomate: I remember the first time I noticed you in the Man of Tai Chi alongside Keanu Reeves and Tiger Chen in 2013, was it different to work with Keanu?

Brahim: Working with Keanu Reeves was an amazing experience. I got cast on the film by a very good friend of mine and I consider him like a big brother, my good friend Mike Leeder. He asked me to send him a reel of me doing all kind of kicking. I did and a week later I was on a plane to work with Keanu and Yuen Woo Ping. Keanu Reeves is just a down to earth human being.

Budomate: You already played in a few movies with Jackie Chan, how did you meet him and his team?

Brahim: I met JC stunt team back in 2014 when I worked on the film Dragon Blade. They were looking for a lot of Roman looking action actors. They contacted me back in January 2014 and at first, I thought it was a joke so I didn’t really take it seriously but then again later around July of the same year they messaged me again asking me if I had a Chinese visa and to my luck I did.

Next day after 3 flights, I was in the Gobi desert getting to work with Jackie Chan. The whole process was quite crazy as out of nowhere I was finally working with Jackie Chan and his team.

Budomate: You worked with Van Damme on a few of his movies as well, what was the most memorable moment on sets?

Brahim: Jean Claude is one of the nicest actors I ever worked with. We always speak French on the set and when I first met him on The Eagle Path, he told me “I reminded him of this french Muay Thai fighter called Dida Diafat”.

So later on Pound of Flesh when Mike brought me to work, Jean Claude cast me as well in the movie. I remember him taking me to his trailer and showing me footage from the Eagle Path last time I saw him in China and we talked about his old films and how to stay in shape over the years.

Budomate: I’m a big fan of Strike Back TV Series, how did you get there for the role of Russian Soldier?

Brahim: I got to work on Strike Back through a casting director from Malaysia. They did shoot in Thailand before but for some reason, I did not get to work on it until season 7.

Budomate: I suppose you spend a lot of time in Thailand now, where many movies are filming, what made you move over there like many other stunt guys?

Brahim: As I said earlier moving to Thailand was not what I was planning at first. I came for a holiday which turned into a whole different plan. After Ong Bak, Thailand was the new Hong Kong for martial arts action movies and a lot of westerners moved there to pursue their dreams to be in that kind of films.

I met people here who became my best friends like Tim Man. It was an amazing cause in a gym we had at least 20 westerners training and we all went to the same castings or jobs. It was almost like the foreign legion and every job we had guys with big egos or guys who came for a few months then discovered how hard this business was then to go home.

Budomate: Do you remember your first day on sets when you have to act not fight?

Brahim: That day was when I did Streetfighter the Legend of Chun Li. I was cast in the film with 2 lines and a little fight with Kristin Kreuk. I was never really worried about acting I just never really thought of myself of an actor even today, I am just a guy who enjoys doing action movies and if there are lines well I will just say them as naturally as possible without thinking too much. I think that is where people get it all wrong about acting and fighting. Doing stunts for me is acting.

You don’t say lines but you perform your body movement and facial expressions. So I have been acting since my first stunt job in my eyes but lines to me are just words so when I had to do lines I try to be as natural as possible just like when I do a stunt.

I always laugh when I read other action actors who do minor roles like me say they had to go method acting for this role or that role, I think it’s just plain bigotry. We ain’t doing Shakespeare at least not yet so let’s not make it more difficult than it is.

Budomate: I suppose most of the fans know you by the role of Igor Kazmir in Boyka movie, who invited you for the role and why nobody invited you in previous movies?

Brahim: I met Tim Man in 2007 in Thailand. He was already a stuntman in Sweden and was also doing a lot of work in Thailand. I remember emailing him when I was in France asking him questions and how to get into the film business? He was very nice to take me on some films he did as a fight coordinator like Kill Em All and Ninja Shadow of a tear.

We met Isaac on Ninja Shadow of a Tear and Scott of course. Later on, when they were doing Boyka Undisputed they were having a hard time to find someone to play Igor Kazmir and Tim suggested they use me. I think they were, of course, a bit septical at first since it was such a big part in what is considered by many to be the best western martial art franchise.

Tim convinced Isaac, Isaac convinced Scott and this is how I got to be in the film. I would have never been able to work on the previous ones as I was a very slim guy back then so I needed time to put on muscle. The luck I had was I am always working out so I am always in ready shape so I did not need to pump up that hard to get how you saw me in the film.

Budomate: You used you to double Scott Adkins for some of his trademark aerial kicks when he injured his back. Was it hard to repeat what Scott does?

Brahim: The hardest part was to make my hair look like his hahaha. Scott can do all the moves I do, to be honest, it was not hard since we have a very similar style and also the same body structure and height. Scott is an amazing martial artist and also a great person. I am glad to call him my friend today and he has been very supportive of me over the years.

Budomate: Please tell about your Broto character and why it is so good at Vanguard? Any plans for a spin-off?

Brahim: I am very happy that people liked the character I played in the film. Broto is a special force that is doing a lot of dirty work in the middle east. He gets hired by Omar who wants to kidnap an accountant who used to work for his dad. Broto goes on the mission but then gets stopped by the Vanguard group lead by Jackie Chan. Then the story takes us from England to Dubai.

I don’t know if there will be a spin-off but if Stanley Tong wants me to come back in Vanguard 2 I will be happy to join again.

Budomate: What is your favourite role so far?

Brahim: Broto was by far my favourite role

Budomate: What is your dream role and who do you want to work with on the future?

Brahim: I would like to come back in the Undisputed series and showcase more of Igor cause I think there is something more to do with this character in a similar fashion of what they did with Boyka in part 3. Why not one more episode of Undisputed and bring back Igor again that would be something I will be glad to do.

Budomate: Could you name your three favourite martial arts movies?

Brahim: Drunken Master 2, Drive and Kickboxer.

All rights for this interview reserved by budomate.com and can not be used without official permission.

Enjoy!

Budomate: How did it all started? Do you remember yourself dreaming of playing a fighting girl in the movies or falling from the roof to please the movie goers?
Amy: I grew up in the martial arts and watching kung fu films was the normal. I never thought of making it a career until I saw Michelle Yeoh in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon. Michelle’s strong yet feminine essence was so inspiring to me. That film is still one of my favorites!

Budomate: Please tell about your martial arts experience, do you remember your first class?
Amy: My dad owned a martial arts school so I was always running around at a young age. I do remember my first serious class when I turned 5 – because I was a big girl and could finally train with the big kids. Woot!

Budomate: How often do you train and how do you manage to stay in share between sets?
Amy: Working out can be difficult when busy but I always try to get in some movement, stretching and a little sweat. I always feel better for it. If I am not working then I am working out every day in one way or another!

Budomate: Who is your inspiration and what was the first martial arts movie you seen?
Amy: I am inspired daily by my peers as well as several influential people throughout history, although my mom has influenced me the most. Bruce Lee, Michelle Yeoh and my dad inspired my martial career. Meryl Streep, Robyn Williams, Jim Carey and Angelina Jolie inspired my acting career. The first martial arts movie I remember watching was Enter the Dragon.

Budomate: As I understand it all started with The Adventures of Senor Toro in 2009 where you played a victim. Please tell about that.
Amy: Senor Toro! A good family friend named Shane Stanley knew I had just moved to Los Angeles and brought me out to help him in his comedy short.

Budomate: We all know about male stuntmen but hardly can hear about females, what does it take to be a professional stunt woman?
Amy: I think more and more people are becoming aware of stuntwomen with all of the major action films. I am actually apart of a documentary right now titled “Stuntwomen: The untold hollywood story”, directed by April Wright. It is based off of the book and goes in depth of the life of a stuntwoman from the early ages of film to the present! Like any profession you need to be able to do what is asked, which can be a wide range of things including martial arts, gymnastics, horse riding, fire burns, wire work and so much more. Train hard and smart, be professional and a good sport.

Budomate: You worked on a lot of video shorts such as Angering the Gods, Mickey & the Fly, or The Gate, does it help to grab the attention of producers and land a role?
Amy: Yes, I think it is so important as an artist of any sort to create without hesitation. The control is in your hands to create your own content or collaborate with others. The internet gives us all a way to communicate and share with the world, so why not share your art. I started booking stunt work and even acting jobs based off of some the youtube videos I was in.

Budomate: There is a really tough short where you take on 7 male fighters. What was the idea of this project?
Amy: The Amy vs 7 video with the “Thousand Pounds Action Team” was a conceptual piece for Jace Hall and HD films.

Budomate: In Kung Fu Femmes and Angering the Gods you served as a fight choreographer, is it difficult to make a good fight scenes on a budget or it just a matter of creativity?
Amy: I don’t believe that you need a budget of any sort to create a good fight scene. Although, budget is needed for safety and respect to the performers and crew. There are so many talented choreographers creating amazing fight scenes with nothing but creativity, skill and a camera. It’s all about the team. You could have all of the budget in the world but you need good artists at the end of the day.

Budomate: You were a Scarlett Johansson’s stunt double in the Captain America 2, what was the most dangerous trick you made, and how did you find this job? How was it in comparison with Harley’s role in Suicide Squad?
Amy: Yes, I was one of Scarlett Johansson’s stunt doubles for Captain America 2. James Young who was the choreographer and winter soldier double brought me on to do a previs test fight and I was hired shortly after. That was my first long run on a film and I learned so much. Heidi Moneymaker, Scarlett’s main double did most of the stunts but I did get a few fun ones in and was able to contribute to the creative process. I loved swinging under the bridge! For Suicide Squad I was only brought in for a day to work on a previs for a fight scene as Harley.

Budomate: In 2013 you worked on Raze with Zoe Bell. This movie looks like a good preparation for your latest leading role in the Lady Bloodfight, was it difficult to work on a female fighting movie?
Amy: Raze was a really fun movie to be apart of. There were so many talented ladies in that film and all so lovely. Zoe Bell is a joy to work with.

Budomate: You worked a very popular TV shows such as Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and NCIS: Los Angeles, is there a difference between movies and TV when it comes to stunt work?
Amy: Every job in general is so different which is one of the many things that I love about my career!

Budomate: Video gaming is absolutely different industry for actors and stuntmen or I’m wrong? Please tell about your work on Spider-Man, Uncharted 4 and Rise of the Tomb Raider?
Amy: I love to be apart of video games and motion capture. I have always had wonderful experiences with each motion capture job. It truly is always a blast and the people are fantastic. I have mostly worked on the Uncharted series as the character “Nadine” who is a complete badass!

Budomate: The Gate short looks very promising and having Yayn Ruhian in the movie makes it a very exciting project. Please tell how did you land this role and how was it to work with such a master?
Amy: The Gate is one of my favorite projects that I have been apart of. There is so much passion coming from Kellie Madison, the writer/director/producer. Yayan is so humble and sweet, yet an absolute master of his craft. Plus I got to work with two of my favorite peer Martial Artists; Malay Kim and Xin Wuku.

Budomate: You worked on Deadpool and now joined the sequel, as I understand it will be much more action sequences as David Leitch is directing?
Amy: Yes I worked on Deadpool and then did some previs work for Deadpool 2 but I am no longer working on Deadpool 2 as the director and coordinator have changed.

Budomate: Let’s talk about Lady Bloodfight. This movie is like the answer to manly Kickboxer Vengeance. Please tell how did you land the role, how was it to work with a legendary Bay Logan? Will it be a sequel?
Amy: Lady Bloodfight was my first lead role in a film and I was super anxious! I had been seen on a youtube video and then brought in for an audition with Voltage Pictures. They were very supportive of me and so great to work with. The director Chris Nahon was such a pleasure to work with! Bey Logan is one of the most knowledgable people when it comes to the martial arts, from cinema to history of the arts. As of now, I don’t know of a sequel.

Budomate: You just finished working with Scott Adkins on Accident Man playing Jane The Ripper, please tell about your role and what we can expect from the movie?
Amy: I am really looking forward to the release of Accident Man. Scott Adkins was incredible to work with – a true gem. Jesse Johnson, the director was fantastic as well! A really great team all around. You can look forward to incredible action and such fun characters!! I can’t wait!

Budomate: As time goes we see more and more fighting movies with female leads, how bright is the future for this kind of movies?
Amy: I think it’s a great time to be a woman in action right now! It is more common to see women in leading roles and leading action roles now!

Budomate: Who do really wanna work with, what is your dream project? Maybe some kind of Expendables?
Amy: I’d love to work with so many..the list is long but here are a few directors: Quentin Tarantino, Martin Scorsese, Ang Le, Baz Lurhmann, Ridley Scott, Steven Spielberg- I’ll stop now

Budomate: What next for Amy Johnston?
Amy: I just wrapped on a pilot titled “Paloma’s Flight” that I am very proud of and can’t wait to share! It’s about a young lady named Paloma who is a photojournalist. She lost her husband, a US Navy Seal, to a botched raid in Afghanistan. She continues to fulfill their dream of exploring Mexico. Its a beautiful story and directed by multiple Emmy award winning director Lee Stanley.

Budomate: My traditional question: which three martial arts movies you can call a classic?
Amy: Enter the Dragon, Drunken Master 2 and The 36th Chamber of Shaolin!

You can contact Amy on her official site, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

All rights for this interview reserved by budomate.com and can not be used without official permission.

Budomate: Please tell how did you get involved in the movie business?

William: I first got involved in the film business in high school when I lived in Bangkok Thailand. As a young teenager I got to work on the Robin Williams film Good Morning Vietnam, then in film school, I went on to work for a special effects and movie weapons coordinator, a really super talented guy who worked on lots of big films like Robocop and The Abyss. This led me to eventually begin directing commercials and short films before eventually doing my first film The Prodigy.

Budomate: Your first movie was the Prodigy in 2005 starring Diana Lee Inosanto and her husband Ron Balicki worked and starred in your movies. How did you meet Inosanto’s family?

William: I was a huge fan of Ron’s as a martial artist so with fingers crossed I reached out to him to ask him if he’d lend his expertise to the project and luckily he said yes. This partnership lead to an opportunity to connect with Diana, she sent in a great audition and the rest is history. Ron was the stunt coordinator and fight choreographer for The Prodigy. Super proud of what we all accomplished with the film.

Budomate: It was a 5 years break after the Prodigy, have you been working on something.

William: During that time I worked a lot in video production and began developing the script for Sinners and Saints. It was a long road to get that film made but that’s not unusual if you’re going to work outside of the studio system.

Budomate: You made two movies about soldiers, how close this topic to you?

William: I come from a long line of family that served in the army and so I definitely hold the military in high regard. And I think that combined with some really amazing former spec operators that I proudly call my friends. This all has really shaped that passion and allowed to be as honoring and authentic as I can be when approaching this kind of stories.

Budomate: Cuba Gooding Jr. starred twice in your movies, how does he fit into the action roles?

William: Cuba’s a great actor, he is part of a very elite team of actors that hold the title of Oscar winner. I think that inherently that alone makes him a very unique and unorthodox choice for a leading man in an action film. He worked his tail off for me and was very collaborative. We had a blast working together.

Budomate: In 2012 you worked with Big Swede on One in The Chamber, how was to work with Dolph, I suppose you been his fan like many of us?

William: As a kid, I was definitely a fan of Dolph’s. I think The Punisher and I Come In Peace movies we’re really underrated. Dolph is one of those guys that knows exactly what he wants to do and goes and does it.

Budomate: In 2015 you worked on Marine 4. Do you think this franchise moving the same direction after the first film of 2006 with John Cena or changed its spirit?

William: The Marine franchise has been a huge moneymaker for WWE Films. It plays to that “Guys who love movies for Guys” demographic and does really well.

As far as the spirit of it, no I don’t think it has changed. The budgets have definitely shrunk dramatically but the tone and what they set out to do have been very consistent. Take my installment “MOVING TARGET” it’s basically one giant running gun battle, very straightforward storylines where the action constantly drives the plot forward, propelling from action set piece to action set piece. WWE knows exactly what they want and that’s what they deliver.

Budomate: Budget of first Marine movie was $20,000,000 and Marine 4 was made for just $1,950,000. How hard is it make action film on such a small budget?

William: I would definitely say it’s challenging especially when you consider the scope of the action required in the script for my installment. But that said, WWE is really great about surrounding directors with top-tier talent to handle that kind of production.

I can’t speak for the other directors but I definitely felt very blessed to be working with some incredibly talented guys on the crew when I found my film in Vancouver. Without that level of support it can’t be done.

Budomate: WWE studio making movies with wrestling stars, what the future holds for WWE?

William: I really don’t know where they’re headed but I imagine they will be focusing eventually on bigger and bigger films. I recently saw Scott Adkins and director James Nunns new film Eliminators and I thought it was great. James is a really talented director and I love Scott. Very cool film.

Budomate: UFC is going to start film movies too and this is just a question of time when it will happen. Who do you want to work with from UFC champs and who do you think can become the new action star?

William: I was lucky enough to get to work with two of the scariest guys to ever enter the octagon – Bas Rutten and Krzysztof Soszynski. Both absolute monsters in the cage but also two of the coolest guys anyone would ever get to work with.

I hear there’s talk of Connor MacGregor doing movies but these guys make so much money that unless it was a giant studio project I’m not sure that luring them away from that is very likely.

Budomate: Sinners and Saints is one of the best action films ever made and I can put it on the same level as Tony Scott’s Last Boyscout or John Woo‘s Killer or Hard Boiled. Really love the film spirit – gritty, tough and deadly. How did you come up with the idea?

William: Thank you, I’m super proud of that film. Definitely one of my favorites. I guess to start with I think it goes without saying I am very unapologetic about how much I love the action genre. So my writing partner Jay Moses and I knew we wanted to do something very old-school and very gritty… a kind of the throwback to the action cop films we grew up with.

The next thing to decide was where to send the story. We both wanted to place it in the South and we knew we wanted it to be very urban. So the answer for me was pretty obvious.

New Orleans is my absolute favorite city in the South and there’s absolutely nowhere else like it. There have been very few films filmed in New Orleans – Mardi Gras or Voodoo.

I really wanted to showcase the New Orleans I knew. The boroughs and neighborhoods surrounding the Quarter. The underbelly places the tourists would never even consider going, but places where the locals really live and breathe.

It’s such a cool, gritty, city full of so much energy, history and such an incredible mix of cultures… French, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, Irish-German the ultimate melting pot.

I thought it was a city begging to be put on film. So that’s what we tried to do, combine a gritty dark cop film with a unique city on the planet.

Budomate: Gun fights are so awesome so only John Wick can keep up on the same level. Who was working on scenes and what is the secret?

William: I got really lucky on that film originally the villains of the peace were Russian mafia, so during my research, I stumbled across Sonny Puzikas, a former Soviet commando, known as one of the top tier firearms trainers in the US.

I reached out to him and as luck would have it it just so happened he also lived in Dallas where I live. We connected and I asked him to step in and be the tactical advisor for the film. Hands-down his input really took it to the next level. So I guess if I have a secret, my secret is being really honest with myself, looking at my shortcomings and then finding really talented people to fill those deficits.

Budomate: Johnny Strong played the lead, how did you meet him?

William: It’s a long story but basically I was a fan of his from Black Hawk Down and Get Carter, and a fan of his music and reached out to him under the pretext that I wanted to use a couple of his songs in my first film The Prodigy. We connected in a venue that he was performing at and hit it off, I got him the script and the rest is a history.

Budomate: You started talking about Sinners & Saints 2, can you share any ideas of what we can expect in the second part?

William: Sinners & Saints 2: Vengeance is basically the original film turned into a vengeance story cranked up on steroids. Sean Riley crosses paths with the new nemesis and that leads him on an international hunt. Think something in the vein of the original film meets Man on Fire with a LOT MORE ACTION. A very cool, gritty, brutal story that definitely won’t disappoint

Budomate: In 2016 you worked with Scott Adkins on Jarhead 3, how was it to meet one of the popular kicking stars of today?

William: I’m a huge fan of Scott and so that was a great opportunity for the two of us to connect and collaborate. Although as far as action goes I definitely didn’t get to showcase Scott potential we’ve got plans in the future to do exactly that. A couple very cool projects in the works.

Budomate: You work a lot with Chad Law, I can say you are like Luc Besson and Robert Mark Kamen, doing a lot of great stuff together to please action fans. How did you meet each other?

William: Wow! That is an amazing compliment, thank you.

We actually met through my producer and very good friend Jay Stamper. The two of us really hit it off, we both love the genre and Chad really “get’s it “… exactly the kind of collaborative partner I needed.

I owe Chad a lot, he was really the one responsible for getting me hired on for his script for Sony’s The Hit List. We’ve basically been connected at the hip since then. Chad wrote my pride and joy Daylights End, co-wrote Sinners 2 with Jay Moses and has also penned several projects I currently have in development, lots of very cool stuff coming together in the future.

Budomate: Many great action directors such as Craig Baxley or Andrzej Bartkowiak don’t do films anymore, what do you think is the reason?

William: Man, both those guys are awesome. I love Craig Baxley’s action, his second unit work on The Predator. The attack on the rebels by Arnold and the team is still some of the best action work put on camera, and I personally think that Andrzej Bartkowiak’s Maximum Risk is one of Van Damme‘s best.

But to your point, I think it’s such a shame that theses two don’t direct more but this is a tough game and the business has changed dramatically. In my opinion, I really doubt films like I Come In Peace or Maximum Risk would be theatrical productions now. All those kind of movies go straight to video and DTV probably is not something either of those guys want to do. If they did want to do then they would be.

It’s a tough game and the industry has changed dramatically. With all the rampant piracy budgets have shrunk and studios primary interest at this level is to do sequels from their own internal vault of films. I can only assume neither one of them have found anything that they really want to do or otherwise they would be doing it.

Budomate: Action movies involve a lot of stunt work, could you please tell about the most dangerous scene you worked on?

William: Probably the most dangerous scene I had performed was in One in The Chamber. It was basically a “Highfall” repel by Cuba Gooding’s stunt double Mark Hicks. The stunt was coordinated by Diyan Hristov and what made a particularly challenging was it was a high-speed descent/repel down the center of this very small opening in the center of this old building. One false move and Mark would’ve pendulum back-and-forth smashing into the side of the building as he fell all the way to the ground. Super sketchy… I was very glad when that shot was over.

The other one would probably be the double car hit with Mike Mukatis (doubling for Johnny Strong) and Keith Davis (doubling for Kevin Phillips)… The stunt was coordinated by Jeff Galpin and again there wasn’t much room for error. Both Mike and Keith’s wardrobe didn’t give them much opportunity for wearing any protective gear and getting hit at the same time by a speeding car and not knowing where the other one would go and land on concrete was pretty ugly, was definitely holding my breath on that one.

Budomate: What can you recommend to guys who want to break into the movies and bring back the spirit of good action films?

William: The best advice I can give is to surround yourself with talented people. With people who know more than you do and then get out there and shoot. In a world where you can buy an HD camera and zoom recorder and premier editing system for under $10,000 you really have no excuse.

If you really want your opportunity, the only way you’re going to get it is to go do it. That’s exactly what we did with my first film The Prodigy. If I hadn’t fought like hell for that opportunity and along with my team pushed it across the finish line I would have never been given any of the opportunities I’ve had since then. I would still be talking about what I’m gonna do some day. In my opinion, it’s all about hard work and determination and putting it all on the line.

Budomate: What’s next for William Kaufman?

William: Right now I’m in the middle prep and Bulgaria from my latest film Lazaret Burning. A very cool, unique action film with an almost entirely European cast produced by Joe Zaroui.

As for after that as I mentioned before I’ve got a handful of very cool projects in the works. Super excited about doing Sinners & Saints 2 with Johnny Strong and my producing partner King Hollis. And I’m also knee-deep in developing a great project in Thailand called SAVAGE with producer Daniel Zirilli, and once again starring my partner in crime Johnny Strong.

Budomate: My traditional question: which three martial arts movies you can call a classic?

William: Hmm that’s a tough one, lots of great ones. Off the top of my head I would have to say, I love Above The Law, The Matrix and The Raid.

All rights for this interview reserved by budomate.com and can not be used without official permission.

All rights for this interview reserved by budomate.com and can not be used without official permission.

Sitting under the tight contact with Thai studio he couldn’t get enough freedom to showcase his abilities in Hollywood and with the offer to play a character in Fast 7 in 2013 he has got this chance. He may not have gotten a whole load of screen time but world found out about the new action star – Tony Jaa.

Soon after he was touted to appear in the Hong Kong production SPL 2, and another action flick Skin Trade with two titans of action – Dolph Lundgren and Michael Jai White, produced by Jaa’s new manager, Michael Selby, and also designed to get Hollywood’s attention.

Currently working on The Return of Xander Cage movie in Canada alongside Vin Diesel and Donnie Yen, Tony found a time to talk to me and tell about his movie career.

Budomate: You were born as Panon Yee-rum but what is the story behind Tony Jaa name?

Tony: Actually there is not much of a story behind it. It was just easier to take the Ja from Japanom and use it as a last name. At first Ja was spelled with one A. The Tony was just an easier stage name. Friends and family call me Jaa or Jaaski.

Budomate: As far as I know Panna Rithikrai was your mentor, please tell how did you meet him?

Tony: I had a number of mentors including my father, but Panna was very important to me. I met him when I was trying to get some stunt work. He was doing some local action films and gave me a chance to participate. I learned a lot about choreography from him.

Budomate: Do you remember your first ever stunt, when and where it was and how did it go?

Tony: It was in a local film, basically just a short fight scene. There wasn’t much to it.

Budomate: Your first opportunity came with a stunt double for Robin Shou in Mortal Kombat 2, not everyone knows about that. Please tell how did you find this opportunity?

Tony: I had done a fair amount of stunt work by this time, my size was right, and I was familiar with the style they wanted for Robin, so I was approached for this and happy to do it.

Budomate: Is it true that you doubled Sammo Hung in a commercial?

Tony: Yes I did, I had to wear quite a few pillows.

Budomate: In 2003 you shifted the world with Ong Bak movie and fans desperately started looking for information about you as the new action star. Don’t you think you raised the bar of Thailand action movies since than?

Tony: I think it was not so much that I raised the bar, but that we were able to draw attention to Thailand and how much talent there is here.

Budomate: Tom Yum Goong movie deals with animal trafficking, how close it to your heart? What is the main message of this movie?

Tony: I am very concerned with conservation, nature is part of the world we live in and we should treasure and protect it. Elephants in particular are important to me. I grew up with elephants. My parents were elephant herders. I learned to ride and train elephants and take care of them at a very early age.

Budomate: Do you remember how many world tours and presentations you made to promote Ong Bak and TYG?

Tony: I really don’t know how many, but it was a lot especially for Ong Bak. That was a very exciting time.

Budomate: In Asian movies characters are not so emotional and more about fighting skills, how it has changed with your break through to Hollywood market?

Tony: I always enjoyed acting and wanted to have a chance to extend my range. I think that with some Asian films although the action is very cool, the story lags behind. I like the idea of a complete movie that has great action, but also has good acting and an engaging story.

Budomate: What is the most dangerous stunt trick you have made so far?

Tony: The one where they set my legs on fire and had me do a flying knee at a guy on a motorcycle. I felt like I was part of a barbecue.

Budomate: In SPL 2 you have a role of prison guard with ill daughter, was it hard to play this role and how did you land this role?

Tony: I was approached by the producers and I really liked the story and cast. I also liked the idea of having a dramatic role combined with the action side of things. SPL II is the type of Asian film I like, action, story, acting.

Budomate: SPL 2 has so intense climatic fight and Max Zhang as the main bad guy is so impressive, how much time it took to film this scene and were there any injuries?

Tony: Max Zhang who played the bad guy is very talented both as an actor and a martial artist. Max does his own stunts. It took over a week to shoot that scene. The choreography was really well thought out. There was also great attention to safety and there were no injuries.

Budomate: Please tell how it is fight Dolph Lundgren and Michael Jai White as it is really hard to choreograph this kind of fights in the right way because of height and weight of fighters.

Tony: It is not hard to choreograph, you just need to think about how each person moves and what appears realistic. Michael and I choreographed our fight scene together over a four day period. Dolph is a real pro, so setting up the scene with him was easy.

“I’m more into power and he is into kicks and acrobatics. That’s tough to match, especially if you’re trying to make it feel real. It took us a couple weeks to rehearse. We shot for almost a week. I definitely got a lot of bruises.” – Dolph Lundgren

Budomate: How excited are you to be working among such a big-name as Vin Diesel, Paul Walker, Jason Statham and The Rock in Fast 7?

Tony: This was my first Hollywood production, I was like a little kid, excited every day.

Budomate: Will we see you in FF8 and FF9?

Tony: I can’t answer that, only time will tell.

“I have been a big fan of the Fast and Furious franchise,” said Jaa. “The films are fast-paced, fun and keep the audience involved. There is a great mix of humor and action, something I really appreciate. There is no better film to be involved in for a first U.S. studio production.”

Budomate: Currently you are working on Xander Cage alongside Vin Diesel, Donnie Yen and others. How is it to be a part of a such anticipated action movie?

Tony: Vin and I have become good friends. He took me in like I was family during the Fast 7 shoot. This is like working with family. Donnie has been great and I have really enjoyed spending time with him. The rest of the cast has been equally wonderful, Kris, Deepika, Nina are really fantastic people on and off set. The Director DJ is super fun.

Budomate: Is there any chance to see you alongside Jason Statham or Scott Adkins soon?

Tony: I am friendly with both of these guys, and would love to work with them.

Budomate: Now some martial artists such as Ron Smoorenburg, Gary Daniels or Brahim Achabbakhe moved and settle down in Thailand. More and more movies made there. What is the reason for that?

Tony: Thailand is a great place to make movies. Lots of talent, lots of potential locations, and very good local crews.

Budomate: Do you like superhero movies and have you been offered to play any? Or maybe you have some thoughts to make your own movie?

Tony: I think it would be fun to do a superhero movie. I have a few thoughts on some potential types, but I am holding those for the moment.

Budomate: Who is your dream actor who do you want to work with and accept the offer no matter what?

Tony: There are a number of people, it would be impossible to narrow it down to one.

Budomate: Have you seen The Raid movies?

Tony: Yes, very very good action.

Budomate: Don’t you think it could be a really kick-ass movie with you and Iko Uwais playing brothers and Michael Jai White playing a villain?

Tony: I like Mike playing a good guy, but I would enjoy working with Iko, he is very talented.

Budomate: As we all hope you are not going to slow down and just getting started. What next for Tony Jaa?

Tony: I have two other action films slated for this year. I will let you know about them in due course.

Budomate: My traditional question: which three martial arts movies you can call a classic?

Tony: There is one film that in my mind stands above all others, “Enter The Dragon”.

Budomate: Thank you for your time Tony, when I discovered Ong Bak in 2003 I couldn’t imagine that now I will be talking to you about it and other huge projects you have been involved into. Keep it up!

Tony: Thank you, best wishes, TJ.

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Simon Rhee has worked in movie industry for over 30 years in over 100 projects and known for creating the most dynamic fight and action sequences. His career includes works on such blockbusters as The Dark Knight Rises, Star Trek, Rush Hour, Walker Texas Ranger and many other films and TV Series.

But he is most recognisable for his iconic role as the eye patch leader of the Korean team Dae Han in the Best of the Best movie. He won the best fight award for Rush Hour 2 with Jackie Chan and the best fire stunt award for Letters To Iwo Jima with Clint Eastwood.

“I used to spar with Chuck Norris at his old studio before he got too famous, he is a very down to earth man.”

When he is not filming, he continues to enjoy teaching and training at his Woodland Hills Tae Kwon Do Center.

Budomate: Mr. Rhee, you was born in California, but spent much of your childhood in Korea, how did you manage to blend two such different mentalities?

Simon Rhee: I was born in the US, and when I was one year old, my parents took me back to Korea so that I could connect with the Korean culture and learn the history and language. As far as blending, I use what I have learned from both cultures to and incorporate the best of both into my life.

Budomate: You have a black belt in Hapkido too, are Taekwondo and Hapkido always go hand in hand for Korean martial arts practitioners?

Simon Rhee: Yes, because TKD is a more offensive style and HKD is the more defensive style, and it is good to know both to be a more complete practitioner of the Korean styles.

[gaad]

Budomate: Can you spoil the secret of your flashy and picturesque kicking technique?

Simon Rhee: There is no secret – it comes down to many, many hours of hard work – training and focus.

Budomate: You have been practising Wing Chun and now Ip Man movie buzzing everywhere, do you think Donnie Yen introduced the correct form of Wing Chun.

Simon Rhee: He made it very entertaining using some Wing Chun techniques, but I wouldn’t say that there is one style that is the correct style.

Budomate: Which movie of Ip Man series is your favourite?

Simon Rhee: The first one.

Budomate: Mr. Rhee, you are a many-time Grand Champion of the tournament circuit, do you remember your first one?

Simon Rhee: Yes, it was in San Francisco – I got disqualified because I kicked my opponent in the face too hard.

Budomate: Your pictures have graced the covers of many Martial Arts magazines, do you have the favourite one or maybe the article you like the most?

Simon Rhee: Black Belt Magazine, where I am kicking my brother Phillip, in mid-air.

Budomate: Now you are the teachers teacher with dynamic seminars. How people can contact you if they want to invite you for a seminar in their school?

Simon Rhee: They can contact my office: simonrheetkd@gmail.com.

Budomate: Moving to your film career, when movie studios noticed your talent in 80s what was the first offer you got?

Simon Rhee: Kentucky Fried Movie.

Budomate: Talking about classic movie Best of The Best and your Dae Han role, was it hard to fight your own brother in this movie? Why do you think this movie stands out?

Simon Rhee: I have received so many letters, emails and social media responses for this first “Best of the Best” movie – I think it hit a cord with a lot of people and got them interested in the martial arts because of it’s positive message of forgiveness. As far as doing a fight scene with my brother, that was easy, because we have been doing it all our lives.

Budomate: Why Dae Han became a good guy eventually in the sequel, don’t you think it could be more interesting to see him as a villain again?

Simon Rhee: No, because what makes people interesting is that they are multi-faceted.

Budomate: Your brother Phillip was so remarkable as Tommy Lee but disappeared for a long time from the movies, can you tell us the reason?

Simon Rhee: He has been busy with other work – in advertising and 3-D film conversion, and with producing other films.

Budomate: In 1991 you have been involved into work on Double Impact with Jean-Claude van Damme and Bolo, was it easy to work with them?

Simon Rhee: Yes, it was fun. After working with Jean-Claude, I trained his kids at my studio for a while.

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Budomate: You worked on stunts in Rush Hour 2 and 3, what can you tell about Jackie Chan and his stunts?

Simon Rhee: Jackie Chan is a very down to earth person, fun to work with, and a very generous person, and I had the honor to double him on Rush Hour 3. The stunts for his movies are serious and he always finds a way to entertain his audience.

Budomate: In 1997 you worked on Spawn movie with Michael Jai White who is one of the most complete martial artists nowadays. Are you still in contact and what can you say about his projects?

Simon Rhee: I have not been in contact with him lately, but he is one of the best kickers I have seen in the film industry.

Budomate: In Martial Law TV series you worked alongside Sammo Hung, why do you think he is not famous in US but so powerful in Asia?

Simon Rhee: Maybe his lack of English… for some reason the TV series lost its steam.

Budomate: You worked on two comedy films Beverly Hills Ninja and Kung Pow, is there any difference to work on stunts in comedy and action movie?

Simon Rhee: Not really – most of the time I’m either getting beat up or beating up somebody.

Budomate: Redbelt is one of a kind movie and not everyone knows about it, why do you think people don’t make movies using Jiu-Jitsu style, it is so popular and BJJ is another money making machine today?

Simon Rhee: Redbelt came out a little early for people to appreciate the style. Sometimes it is hard to translate and appreciate Jiu-Jitsu techniques on camera.

Budomate: Since 2000s you started working more on TV shows, what is the difference between TV show and blockbuster stunts?

Simon Rhee: TV shows shoot at a much faster pace than big movies. Movies tend to give you more time to prep and sometimes that is why there are more spectacular stunts in the movies.

Budomate: Daredevil is another popular TV show in 2015, what can you tell about stunts in it?

Simon Rhee: Daredevil had a really good stunt double, Chris Brewster. The stunt coordinator, Phil Silvera, is also a martial artist. When you have a martial artist doing the stunts and a coordinator as well who knows martial arts techniques, you can create very good action / fight sequences.

Budomate: In 2016 you helped to bring Rush Hour to TV, how is it working with James Lew and Jon Foo?

Simon Rhee: James Lew is one of my best buddies and we collaborate on ideas. James did the Pilot for the Rush Hour TV series, and Jeff Wolfe did the rest of the series – they are both talented martial artists and stunt coordinators and it is great working with both of them.

Budomate: Can you give your professional advice to guys and girls who want to break through into stunts?

Simon Rhee: Train hard in all facets of stunt work – martial arts, gymnastics, driving, etc. and if you are serious about it, you must join the Screen Actor’s Guild to be hired. You must also network with other stunt professionals and have integrity in everything you do.

Budomate: And my traditional question: which three martial arts movies you can call a classic?

Simon Rhee: My favorites are Enter the Dragon, Drunken Master 2 and The Raid.

Budomate: I really appreciate your time. You are a real inspiration to martial arts fans and it has been an honor to get to talk to you.

Simon Rhee: You are welcome, thank you.

If you are interested to know more about Simon Rhee and his works you can find him on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or official website.

All rights for this interview reserved by budomate.com and can not be used without official permission.