Growing up in the late 70s and early 80s was one of the biggest joys this writer has experienced. I pity later generations. They missed out on so much in life. Like Saturday Morning Cartoons, playing outside with friends, the streetlamps acting as curfew indicators, and fantastic movies. This was the golden age of unforgettable classics such as Star Wars, Back to the Future, and Jaws. We also had many campy knockoff movies that have stood the test of time. These unique marvels await a new generation to find them and realize they are the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
To help this audience, this writer wanted to introduce one of the most treasured campy movies of the 80s: The Last Dragon. It was a masterpiece released in 1985 and was a darling of the martial arts action-comedy genre. For Generation X, The Last Dragon undeniably earned its place as a cult classic. Its masterful blend of over-the-top action, infectious 80s style, and a surprisingly heartfelt core resonates to this day. It is begging to be rediscovered by a new generation, offering them a unique cinematic experience compared to the overused green screen CGI Hollywood has grown to rely on.
At the very core of The Last Dragon, we have the story of Leroy Green, a young martial artist striving to achieve the ultimate state of enlightenment and power, The Glow. Leroy’s journey takes him from the streets of Harlem to the glitz and glamour of Show Biz, where he must confront the evil of that world. In this case, it takes the form of Eddie Arkadian, a low-life talent agent who uses violence as his tool of choice to get his less-than-talented pool of athletes, actors, and pop stars breaks that are less than deserving.
Along the way, Leroy encounters a cast of memorable characters. One of them is the radiant Laura Charles, a glamourous TV personality who would rival Ryan Seacrest today. Through what some would call destiny, his accidental encounter with Miss Charles fighting off the distasteful acts of Eddie Arkadian set off a series of events that ultimately lead to the showdown with Sho’nuff, the Shogun of Harlem. In this final act, these two titans put it all on the line for the Glow, the streets of Harlem, and the future of Laura Charles.
To this writer, what truly sets The Last Dragon apart from its contemporaries is its unapologetic embrace of the campy style it was created under. The film revels in its absurdity, with over-the-top antics, cheesy dialogue, and a soundtrack that perfectly captures the spirit of the 80s. While sometimes inadvertently hysterical, the action sequences are indisputably entertaining, featuring Kung-fu, breakdancing, and even a memorable showdown at a disco. However, a surprisingly heartfelt story lies beneath the surface of all that fun stuff. One of self-belief, overcoming adversity, and staying true to one’s values. We can all relate to Leroy’s journey, even in 2025. This inner strength and ability to confront fears is within us if we only stop and do the proper interreflection and not worry about what the world thinks.
The film also offered a refreshing perspective on race and representation, which was generations ahead of its time. Leroy, a young Black man, is portrayed as a confident and capable hero that everyone could get behind. This was a unique departure from the stereotypical roles often assigned to Black characters in mainstream cinema at the time. The Last Dragon celebrates Black culture, a soundtrack filled with soul, and showcases the vibrant energetic community of Harlem. Forty years later, we still struggle to accomplish what this film did flawlessly. Most movies that involve Harlem or Black culture still focus on the negatives of violence, drugs, and gang lifestyle. Why do we allow that to continue? If nothing else, this film proves it does not have to be so.
Make no mistake, The Last Dragon is a product of times forgotten and themes long passed. Still, its message of self-belief, individuality, and the importance of the human spirit remains timeless. It’s a film that celebrates the power of dreams, encourages people to embrace their inner light, and reminds everyone that hope and joy can always be found in the face of adversity. In closing, this writer will share one last thought. In a society that often takes itself too seriously, The Last Dragon offers a refreshing dose of escapism and the joy of pure entertainment. So, turn up the volume, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be transported to a world of over-the-top action, infectious energy, and a lot of heart. You won’t regret it, and perhaps you will be able to find your Glow!
