An action thriller, Year of the Dragon is, at times, shocking and still controversial.
After the failure of the epic western Heaven's Gate, which nearly ruined Academy Award-winning director Michael Cimino's (The Deer Hunter) career, Year of the Dragon was set to be his comeback.
Starring Mickey Rourke and John Lone, the movie pits a newly assigned Chinatown Police Captain up against a young, rising Chinese Triad member ready to take power. As their battle continues, the situation becomes increasingly personal between the two.
The film did only okay business at the worldwide box office. Still, over time, it has emerged as a cult favorite among some audiences.
Featuring a complete replica of Manhattan Chinatown, a gripping score, and arresting cinematography, it's not hard to see why.
But the film remains mired in controversy and divides opinion.
Join me for this episode as we delve into what makes the film work, where it falls short, and discuss the problematic way it handles its characters' treatment of Chinese Americans.
Connect with us on Bluesky:
@not-ni-theaters.bsky.social
And to read more of Will's writing or check out more podcast episodes, you can visit him at: willturntale.com
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