August 19: Enter the Dragon (1973)

Milestone Years

• 50th Anniversary: August 19, 2023
• 55th Anniversary: August 19, 2028
• 60th Anniversary: August 19, 2033
• 75th Anniversary: August 19, 2048

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Enter the Dragon was inspired by the global popularity of martial arts and Bruce Lee’s personal mission to bring Chinese martial philosophy to the Western world. It was co-produced by Warner Bros. and Golden Harvest, with Lee contributing significantly to the story and action choreography. The movie drew from Lee’s real-life martial arts experience and philosophy of Jeet Kune Do.

You Might Not Know

• It was Bruce Lee’s final completed film before his sudden death just weeks before the premiere.
• The mirrors scene was Bruce Lee’s idea to reflect the theme of illusion versus reality.
• Enter the Dragon was one of the first martial arts films produced by a major Hollywood studio.
• Bruce Lee helped direct several scenes uncredited due to his strong vision for the film.
• The movie was selected for preservation in the U.S. National Film Registry for its cultural significance.

Food Ideas

• Dim sum platter with dumplings, buns, and spring rolls
• Spicy Szechuan noodles inspired by Lee’s Hong Kong roots
• “Dragon Claws” — crispy chicken wings with a chili glaze
• Kung Fu Fruit Salad with dragon fruit and lychee
• Chopstick snack tray with edamame, wontons, and fortune cookies

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a martial arts movie marathon starting with Enter the Dragon
• Take a beginner martial arts or tai chi class with friends
• Dress up in classic kung fu outfits for a themed party
• Play a Bruce Lee trivia game or quiz
• Create DIY nunchucks or other safe props for photo fun

Filming Locations

Enter the Dragon was filmed in Hong Kong, including scenes at the Shaw Brothers Studio and real outdoor locations such as the picturesque Han’s Island (shot on Palm Island and other parts of Hong Kong). The mirrored room scene was built on a soundstage, adding a surreal layer to the climax that became iconic in martial arts cinema.