Martial arts enthusiasts and movie lovers alike will gather in Tempe next month as the U.S. Martial Arts Film Festival kicks off its inaugural run, bringing a slate of new and classic action films to the big screen.
The festival runs May 1 through 4. Co-organizer and Thunderbird Farms resident John Donohue promises a blend of modern martial arts films, kung-fu classics, actor appearances and live demonstrations. Organizer Leo Ramos, who has been developing the project for several years, finally saw his vision come to life with the help of longtime martial artist Donohue.
“Leo had tried to get it going a few years back but faced some setbacks,” Donohue said. “When he was ready to try again, I jumped in to help.”
Among the highlights is a special screening of Enter the Dragon, the Bruce Lee film that has rarely been shown in theaters since its 1973 release. The Bruce Lee Foundation gave festival organizers permission to show the film on the big screen, said Donahue.
The festival will feature new independent martial arts films, including fresh works by industry veteran and kickboxing champion Danny Lopez, alongside beloved “Kung Fu Theater” favorites from the 1970s and ’80s.
“It’s not just for die-hard martial arts fans,” said Donohue. “We’re also bringing in directors, sound engineers, lighting experts, people who can offer insight for anyone interested in filmmaking.”
The recently renovated Pollack Tempe Cinemas will serve as the festival venue. Donohue said he had to scout out the theatre before signing on and was happy to find a modernized cinema.
Beyond film screenings, the festival will include live martial arts demonstrations from local and international masters. A red-carpet event is scheduled for May 1 at 7:30 p.m., featuring appearances by industry stars and martial artists.
The USMAFF also coincides with a major martial arts seminar hosted by the Federation of International Traditional Martial Arts at the Holiday Inn near 44th Street and McDowell Road in Phoenix. With some 40 martial artists from around the world participating, Donohue said attendees can expect crossover appearances between the two events.
The festival is sponsored by the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Proceeds from the festival will also support breast cancer research, a cause close to Ramos’ heart after losing a loved one to the disease.
For Donohue, who has studied martial arts for 56 years, the festival is a dream come true.
“My favorite martial arts movies? Ip Man really touched me because it’s about Wing Chun, and of course, Enter the Dragon is iconic,” he said. “If you love action, movies, and meeting some of the top martial artists in the world, this is the place to be.”
Tickets and a full schedule are available at USMAFF.com.
