Matthew Polly’s thoroughly researched and riveting biography Bruce Lee: A Life gives fans of the late Chinese American martial arts film star (1940-1973) the most informative account of their idol’s life and career. Starting with an in-depth search into Lee’s family roots, Polly gives us the facts about Lee’s upbringing in Seattle and Hong Kong, how he became a child film star (and later Cha Cha dance champion!) in the latter country, his move back to America in the early 60s to establish and teach others his own form of fighting skills which he called Jeet Kune Do, and his desire to become the first major international “oriental” movie star.
Polly also recounts Lee’s courtship & subsequent marriage to Linda Emery and their struggles in raising two kids, paying the bills, and dealing with racism (some of Linda’s relatives refused to accept Lee as one of the family). Lee’s work as a martial arts instructor in Hollywood allowed him to become friends (and sometimes rivals) with the likes of Steve McQueen, James Coburn, and Chuck Norris, as well as having numerous affairs with various actresses. Using connections, Lee was able to get a regular role on the 1966-67 TV series “The Green Hornet”, where, despite being underpaid, he quickly became the breakout star. But it wouldn’t be until he returned to Hong Kong in 1971 to do two films (1971’s The Big Boss & 1972’s Fist of Fury, not to mention Lee’s directorial debut with 1972’s The Way of the Dragon & the then unfinished Game of Death) for kung fu movie producer Raymond Chow that Lee was finally on his way to get the stardom he craved.
Unfortunately, just as Lee was ready to become a superstar with his role in the American/Hong Kong co-production (& cult classic) Enter The Dragon, released in 1973, tragedy would strike. Polly does a great job of detailing the bizarre events that led to Lee’s death & subsequent cover-up, as well as quoting various friends, family & colleagues who knew Lee during his all too brief life. No, Lee doesn’t come off looking good all the time (besides the affairs, he had a quick temper & held grudges longer than anybody should have), but Bruce Lee: A Life is still a terrific tribute to this actor’s influence & body of work.
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