MEMO FROM BRUCE LEE TO "HAIL
TO JACK CHO" aka "'04 BRUCE LEE VEHICLE" PRODUCTION TEAM,
25/11/03
Hey guys. First of all, just let me say how much I appreciate your candor in
coming to me with your concerns. I know that the script-related clauses in
my contract are a little off-putting, and I want to assure you that the only
reason they're there is that I care about my work and feel an obligation toward
my fans.
I understand your hesitation in accepting the "Hail to Jack Cho" script
as-is. "Where is the Jeet Kun Do?" is the question, I think. And
I understand the question. So I am rewriting the script. Before everybody gets
too excited about this, I should lay my cards on the table. I won't be turning
this into "Re-Enter the Dragon," and the movie isn't going to the
the action blockbuster you were probably all hoping for. But you're right:
the public won't stand for a movie where everybody just stands around throwing
non-sequiturs at one another. So, for example, I'm going to have a band of
ninjas enter the store in the opening sequence. Then my character and the butcher
will fight them off. This will recall the high energy of my earlier work, but,
by keeping the scene's focus on the conversation and cameraderie, will allow
me to develop my craft as I see fit; which, I'm sure you'll understand, is
-- and must be -- my central focus in this and in all future projects.
I do think the movie will be a success! Don't underestimate the general public.
Bruce Lee superfans will love it no matter what happens, and people who are "sitting
on the fence" have more complex tastes than I think you're allowing them.
Excited to have you all on board!
Bruce