top of page

Return of the Dragon History

"Return of the Dragon" was produced in Hong Kong and directed by Bruce Lee himself. It was released in 1972 and became an international hit, especially in the United States, where it was distributed by Bryanston Distribution.

​

"Return of the Dragon" was one of the last films that Bruce Lee completed before his untimely death in 1973, and it is considered by many to be one of his best films. The film was released internationally and was a huge success, grossing over $130 million worldwide. It helped to popularize martial arts cinema in the West and solidified Bruce Lee's status as a martial arts icon.

​

Bryanston Distribution played a crucial role in the film's release in the United States. The company acquired the distribution rights to the film and marketed it as a martial arts blockbuster. They even changed the title of the film to "Way of the Dragon" in order to appeal to American audiences.

​

Overall, "Return of the Dragon" and its release through Bryanston Distribution played a significant role in the history of martial arts cinema and helped to solidify Bruce Lee's status as a cultural icon.

​

Return of the Dragon (1974).png
Anchor 1

Return of the Dragon Plot

"Return of the Dragon" is a martial arts film released in 1972, written, directed and starring Bruce Lee. The movie follows the story of Tang Lung, a skilled martial artist from Hong Kong who travels to Rome to help his cousins who are being harassed by a local crime boss.

​

Upon arrival, Tang Lung is confronted by a group of thugs who are hired by the crime boss to scare him off. However, Tang Lung defeats them easily, earning the respect of his cousins and the admiration of the local community. Tang Lung is then challenged to a final showdown against the crime boss and his henchmen, which takes place in the Colosseum.

​

The movie features several impressive martial arts fight scenes, including a legendary showdown between Bruce Lee and Chuck Norris. Beyond the action scenes, "Return of the Dragon" also explores themes of cultural identity and the struggle of immigrants in foreign lands.

​

Overall, "Return of the Dragon" is a classic martial arts film that showcases Bruce Lee's incredible talent and charisma as an actor and martial artist. The movie has become a beloved cult classic and remains a significant part of Bruce Lee's legacy in the world of martial arts cinema.

Return of the Dragon Scenes.png
bottom of page