This was a constant vhs rental for me as a kid. My mom always asked me if i ever got tired of watching the same movie over and over again and i never did. As an 80’s kid american ninja was part of growing up.
August 30, is the anniversary of the premier screening of AMERICAN NINJA. It was in 1985. How wonderful that this martial arts classic is still alive and kicking, and still resonates with millions of devoted and enthusiastic fans, all over the world. Congratulation to all participants in making this movie - creators, producers, distributors, cast and crew. 🎬🎥
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thanks for your kind reply ! Like many here, you gave me a big part of my Childhood and a great memory I look dearly back. Definitely will check out the book. Wish you all the best and really hope we hear more from you.
My entire childhood was growing up watching the American ninja movies... This documentary means so much. Just to get to see and hear the backstory and see Michael dudikoff again and some of the old actors and actresses is truly amazing and even seeing the writers and directors and the stunt Coordinators is great. Thanks again
I grew up on this and the sequels, when I went into the Marines, I got so many guys hooked on them. Still great movies, just went through them again and they're good!
I remember watching this movie over and over when I was 8-10 years old! I thought being a ninja was the coolest thing in the world! Now, at the age of 38, it’s nice being taken to those childlike daydream with this movie! Thank you for giving me Great childhood movie!
Absolutely, I had my first born, a little boy, 2 weeks ago and you will know that he too will grow up with them! The first two movies in the series were very deared to me. Thank you for acknowledging me and reaching out, it shows the kind man that you are!
This was my first ninja movie ever. I watched it a few years after it came out, I'm guessing around 1992. I was 12 and had to beg my mom if she could rent it cause it was rated R. She watched it alone, then told me I could. Great memories! I've watched it countless times ever since. I watched the other cult ninja movies later and had no clue until today that they were essentially made by the same group of people. American ninja got me into martial arts and gymnastics for over a decade.
Steve James was Curtis Jackson when 50 cent was an infant , imagine one of the most important rappers of all time sharing the name of an action character #crazycoincidence
I am a 45 year old Korean man. I still vividly remember seeing American Ninja 4 for the first time at the age of 12. I grew up watching many of your action movies. I found your channel by chance. I got to know the director's face for the first time. Thank you for making a fun action movie. I hope you always stay healthy.
I still watch this with my own kids on occasion, even their generation (young teens as I write this) enjoys this film, as I did at that age. Great work and thank you.
You are very welcome. It is a great satisfaction to learn that a new generation of viewers enjoy the movie, and the old guard is still loyal to it and enjoy it as well.
The American Ninja always brings back memories of my teenage days. I loved this movie the moment I watched it. Thank you for this informative documentary.
This was B movie karate film that hit on all the right emotions in a very good way. The director had a worldly way about him. The script, the hard working actors, the stunt people all had a hand in making this a very successful film.
Thanks for the movie, AN2, you are one of the best directors... the ambience of the places, choreography, music, camera perspectives,... what an inspiration!!!! Sweet childhood memories... Thanks from the bottom of my heart!!!
Thank you, Sam, for these great movies that were my favorite when I was a kid. Joe gave me so much confidence back then, and Jackson was such a funny character (in a good way). I still rewatch both movies every summer and can't stop enjoying them. I wish there were more installments directed by you. Thank you!
Thank you for this. This movie brings back great memories of my childhood. My cousins and I would wrap t-shirts around our faces and jump off trees like we were Joe Armstrong.
When I was a kid growing up in the late 80's I must have seen this movie 100 times. This movie is the reason why I got in inducted in 2008 World Grappling Hall Of Fame taking 3rd place. Thank you, American Ninja for your inspiration that continues to inspire the World with a razor sword American Ninja Slash.
My little brother and I taped American Ninja 2 off cable and watched it a hundred times. I don't have words to tell how excited we were to find the first movie in a video store in the city my grandparents lived. You started more than one decades-long love affair with ninja movies. Well done, everyone involved!
They don't make movies like this anymore. I was 12 when I saw it and man, did I love it! Great and precious memories. This making of was great to watch too. Nice to see the people who made the movie I enjoyed so much and really was a big part of my childhood. It's not on TH-cam, so let's see if I can find a DVD somewhere, really wanna see the movie again now, 35 years later...! Thank you for making this!
Yes, childhood memories are important and precious so I am glad that a movie that I directed was an important part of your childhood. This video is on the newly released Blu Ray version of the movie that also includes a commentary track.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you, it really was, and it's so cool that I'm able to tell you now, thanks to TH-cam. I wish you well, take care and thanks again!
This is great. I've always wanted to see these guys off the big screen. I used to watch this with movie with my grandma, who used to love Bruce Lee movies. Thanks for uploading
Thank you for making this film. It will always be one of my favorites...Micheal was and is a hamdsome and superb actor. He deserved to be in more bigger and recognised films.And yes,Judie Aronson still looks absolutely adorable. Time only makes what's good into what's classic 😊.......
Aaah, Judie Aronson. A never getting older beauty. 15 years older than me but I felt in love since Weird Science to her. Thank you for this Making of. I still love the American Ninja movies today.
Excellent documentary. It brings back good memories of the 80's and 90's. It's good to see how they made this movie that managed to make 4 more movies. Thanks Sam.
I love American ninja, I watched it when I was little with my dad and family...my mom was a huge fan of Michael dudicoff and she claimed including my dad and uncles at that time that I looked a lot like him...He is an inspiration in action movies....This movie is way better than the action movies produced today....I also loved Steve James..May his soul rest in perfect peace.. God bless all the cast and you too Mr. Firstenberg..
Believe it or not, I actually got all five American ninja movies on DVD the other day! I even saw the first three right here on TH-cam and now I can be able to have those movies along with the other two!
@@samfirstenberg3719 Great indeed. Are you still working on film projects? It's great to be able to connect with social media nowadays with other creatives.
Great documentary Sam. I remember my childhood best mate Darren and I relentlessly braining each other in his backgarden trying to be Ninjas after watching these movies. What a touchstone, and the cast all look great still.
I love this video post. I'm having a beer and looking back at my childhood when I first watched this amazing film. I honestly watch it once a month on my weekends, it never gets old to me. Thanks so much for sharing, good to see Michael & the cute girl from the movie 🙏
There are 5 films for me that I would want if I was stranded forever on an island. This is one of the 5. A pure, simple, no holds barred no fake BS no CGI obsessed REAL FILM with a heart, a serious message, and pure entertainment. Brilliant from top to bottom this film literally has no flaws. Kill Bill cannot hold a candle to this. This, the 5 Deadly Venoms, Crippled Avengers, and Zatoichi are the creme of the crop. Thank you Mr Firstberg for this film and thank you to everyone who was involved in it.
This is my favourite movie ever.When my father bought the first VHS player back in the 80's this was one of our first movies.Pirated,badly dubbed and badly recorded.Still,i have watched this about 1000 times.Years later i bought the dvd then blu ray,and i was shocked how many things i hadnt seen and heard before.Also,Judy Aronson was my first crush i think!Thank you Mr.Firstenberg.Greetings from Poland.
Childhood memories are precious so enjoy your future viewing. You might be interested in the book Stories From The Trenches. Check it out at: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1
Thank you for making this Film i Born 1988 and i think i was 6 years old and saw The Film at the First Time i dont now how often i looked that film 100 of Times...Im from Germany and i think because your movies I do martial arts since my age was 9 years and im a German Airborn Soldier for a Long Time ... Thank you a Lot
One of the definitive movies from my childhood, I still watch it a few times a year. I'm so glad this film exists and that this documentary was made, it shows a level of deep affection from the filmmaker and others involved, to the global audience that have embraced it. Judie is still a FOX btw lol...thanks for helping me and so many others to have some positive childhood memories!
@@samfirstenberg3719 thank you Sam! I always remember seeing your name on the credits, so great to actually speak with you..bless you for your dedication!
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you Sam, I actually directed my first feature last year, COMMANDO NINJA, an indie action comedy tribute to the 80's Action Hero movies, and specially to American Ninja, Revenge of the Ninja and Ninja 3. We did 3 million views total in 7 languages and having your feedback, even on the trailer, would be the best day in my life ahah! th-cam.com/video/xfBTOZu2jik/w-d-xo.html Regards, Ben
Thank you for posting this ! I am a huge fan of your films. i still love American Ninja and have probably seen this and Revenge of the Ninja more times than any other films. Judie still looks absolutely stunning, wow ! Such a shame to have lost the legend Steve James, he was the coolest !
I really hope at some point I can meet Michael and tell him how much I just absolutely loved him as Joe Armstrong. Hopefully at some comic con or something I can. I was OBSESSED with this movie as a kid.
You directed all three of my favorite ninja movies: Revenge of the Ninja, Ninja III: The Domination, and American Ninja. We got our first VCR in 1988 when I was 13, and my friends Corey, Tom, and I rented all three of those movies countless times. I have them on Blu-ray now; I just wish the picture quality of the Revenge of the Ninja and American Ninja Blu-rays was as good as Ninja III, which is phenomenal. The colors, contrast, and sharpness are perfect, and it has just the right amount of film grain. It's one of the best looking film-to-Blu-ray transfers I've ever seen. I wonder why that is. Did a different company do the transfer, and/or were Ninja III's film source elements in better condition than the other two's?
EthnoEuropean's CountriesAreBeingInvaded the one where she becomes possessed by the ninja who gets killed at the beginning. I actually liked that one especially the beginning. It was number 3 In a series I believe.
I probably watched this over 100+ times as a kid and didn't realize so many other people also loved this movie as much as me until now that I'm seeing all the comments. I used to watch this on VHS and practice the moves and wanted to be a ninja during this time just like everyone else. Really fun movie, great job to everyone involved in making it.
By some estimates more then 100 million viewers saw this movie in the last 36 years around the world. Even today it has many dedicated followers. I am glad you enjoyed it so much.
thank you so much for this video. it brought tears to my eyes. when i was a young boy i got bullied alot and then i saw this movie and michael became a big role model for me , since he was alone he had a tough time and fought hardships. and i loved the sequels. and now 20 years later i see this video and i hear that alot of the team is still friends today. thank you so much for this movie, it really inspired me from a young age and have stayed with me through all these years.
yes american ninja 1 and 2 are very nice movies, when i was a child i asked my mom if i can see it on tv and go to bed later, i was immediately impressed by it, after seeing the movies i play ninja outside with my friends for a long time haha, great to see this again
Always loved that movie just seen it for the first time in 25 years but still loved it. Remembered judge aronson's nane without having to look it up and dudikoff is 1 of my favorites
Sam, this movie meant the world to me back then and still does today. I also loved the soundtrack and wish we could buy it. Some of the music during the fight scenes is so intense and amazing. Great job on casting. The generals daughter may have also been my first crush. Thanks for all the memories!!!
I am glad you like the movie and thanks for the compliments. The General daughter is #JudieAronson facebook.com/JudieAronsonFanPage. Here is a link to the soundtrack th-cam.com/video/_XH8r_jp4ZI/w-d-xo.html
@@samfirstenberg3719 During certain periods of time i watch all parts of American Ninja, and i feel very nostalgic. In 2004, there was a small television in Bulgaria - "Diema +" which shows 1,2,3 parts almost every month and esspecialy in the summer. Nowdays, all the stunts, effects and other things compared to new movies but for their time they were great.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you Sam. Hope you had great Christmas with your family. I wish you a Happy New Year 2023 :) All of your movies are a great memory from my childhood but I can remember that many people were watching them in Poland before 1989 and got positively inspired in their political fight to bring down the Iron Curtain, thanks to their fight and your inspiring stories we live in a much better reality now in Central Europe, although it seems that since Feb this year the old ghosts of the past have returned, maybe we need new movies and a reactivation of Canon Studios :) All the best from Poland :)
You are welcome and thank you for this story. Few years ago, I was in Gdansk Film Festival for screening of American Ninja. Let's hope that central Europe will be safe.
My all time favorite action film starring my all time favorite action star Dudikoff!!! I still own all my VHS copies of AN, AN2, Avenging Force etc.. Thanks for letting me see how my favorite film was made.. You're the man Sam!
Glad i came upon this. I watched AN many times as a young boy back in the day. I thought it was so cool merging the military with martial arts. As a military brat who spent time in the phillpenes at the time this movie was made, I can't help but be reminded of the Philippenes whenver I see this movie.
Sam, Im a Filmmaker from Spain. See you throught youtube speakin in you making of is a dream for me. I grew up watching this movie, you are great director and this is aweasome film. You should have more subscribers. Mielche and Sam, You are a LEGENDS.
Sam, thank you so much for the American ninja movies, I just love part 1, and American Ninja 2 is one of my favorite movies of all times, I can watch it from any moment. I grew up, I love a lot of different movies, but American Ninja 2 holds a special place in my heart. Thanks a million!
Awesome to find this!! Thank you! Sooooo soooooo much Mr Firstenberg !! Great work!! What great memories. Ninjas was what it WAS in the 80s!!! Brings me back to my childhood as well. Thank you!! Saving this for multiple watches from now on!!
Thanks a lot for posting this video Mr Firstenberg. It offered a rare insight into the making of the American Ninja. The photographs on set of the crew were great too. Your movies are truly inspiring and entertaining. American Ninja 1, American Ninja 2 and Avenging Force were my 3 favourite movies in the 1980s. Your movies inspired me to study martial arts. Thanks for being an excellent film director and for bringing many happy childhood memories. I wish you well in the future. Shalom.
Wow! These documentarys are incredible! I've always wondered what the behind the scenes was like. Thank you for making these films and caring. The 10 year old boy in me was absolutely gob smacked by these films and watched them repeatedly. You gotta make another American Ninja film! America needs Joe Armstrong now more than ever!!!
I love these making ofs. I was an 80s kid. How lucky we were. Canon had a lot of crappy movies, but they knew hiw to make great action movies. And Judie Aronson, wow, still gorgeous!
When I was little kid my dad bought me VHS, and the first movie I have seen on the videotape is American Ninja.Before that I was in the cinema and I had watch American Ninja 2.At least 100 times i had watched the both of them when I was growing up. I wish to thank you Sam for making those movies, because that part of the childhood was the best. And also because in that time I had learned english watching those movies over and over again. I wish you Sam a future succes in your carrier and also in private life.Greetings from Croatia
@@samfirstenberg3719 I watched all of your films, from Enter to all of the American Ninja films! You all did such an amazing job. Some of those locations must have been brutal getting equipment to. The logistics alone was immense I'll bet! Wish I could have an autographed shirt from anyone of those films lol. God bless you Sam!
You are correct some of the locations were challenging but but providing exiting entertainment to the viewers was always my goal. send me an email address or Facebook message and I'll send you back an autographed photo.
@@samfirstenberg3719 OMG, thank you so much. I am truly grateful!!! f.v.s.p.industries@gmail.com My name is Robert Roggenstein, if there is anything I could ever do to help you please let me know. 🙏❤️
One of the greatest film franchises of all time! I would love to see another American Ninja film. But it must have Michael Dudikoff and hopefully David Bradley. I miss Steve James.
Im 45 now. back in the 80s i was a little kid and when i first saw enter the ninja i was amazed. best movie i had ever seen. I really thought ninjas had all these powers and abilities. Then came revenge of the ninja and that was even better. But when American ninja came out it blew me away. The action was incredible. The visuals were off the charts beautiful and i must have watched it 100 times. it was my feel good movie after a tough day at school. it still today is a fun movie to sit back and enjoy and let the problems of the world go away while you watch Dudikoff kick butt. Good job mr Firstenberg!
This is so refreshing to see the cast after all these years are still in touch and sort of family like. It speaks volumes to the type of unique individuals they are and thus, why this film was a success and still revered till this day. From the director to all the actors, I get a sense they are all pretty selfless and genuine people. Sam has even took that time to respond to most of the comments which is indication to the type of man he is. Salute to the crew for making a great film and being great human beings more importantly.
Sam first of all I wanna to say -Thank You for this funtastic movie, my uncle bring the video tape with it (he was seaman) and I watched it in my at this time comunist country and that was absolutly fantastic.Iam big Fun od your movies. The film was chep-but You All create a real art, Fantastic story, great Actors (Rip Steve James actor with great potencial),Music and this is IT...todays movies are big volume, budget, and there is no passion,there is completly nothing! I watching your movies with pleasure over and over again!
Thank you for writing about viewing American Ninja back in the time that it was illegal and dangerous to see it. And thank you for the compliments. Check out this book: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1
Thank you so much for making this beautiful movie that I loved since I was a child. When joe was reunited with his father and the lessons of bushido I still follow till this day. The code of bushido is truly amazing way .
I grew up watching all these movies and I love all of them and still watch them to this day ...they will never get old some of the best movies of the 80s.
The 80's movies had an innocence about them that today's movies don't have. It was so much fun. Even today these movies entertain.
Yes I agree with you
The earnestness too!
80s movies were actually much more violent and graphic than what we have now. Not this film specifically of course, but others.
@@Maverick.D. guess you haven’t seen any of the John Wick movies, last Rambo movie, any of the Quentin Tarantino movies. Should I continue?
That's the 80's for ya. Innocence, entertainment and fun. Oh yeah, and cocaine.
This movie makes me think of my dad. He passed away a year ago, but this was one movie we always watched together. Thanks for the memories, Sam.
Yes, memories are precious and I am happy to be part of yours. You are very welcome.
Yes bro same I always watched this movie with my dad and we both loved it but now I have to watch it alone without him
same we watch this movie at midnight
I always watch this movie. I miss the cast a lot.
🙏🙏🙏🙏
This was a constant vhs rental for me as a kid. My mom always asked me if i ever got tired of watching the same movie over and over again and i never did. As an 80’s kid american ninja was part of growing up.
Childhood memories are precious I'm glad that a movie I directed was part of your growing up.
August 30, is the anniversary of the premier screening of AMERICAN NINJA. It was in 1985. How wonderful that this martial arts classic is still alive and kicking, and still resonates with millions of devoted and enthusiastic fans, all over the world. Congratulation to all participants in making this movie - creators, producers, distributors, cast and crew. 🎬🎥
Michael Dudikof is a legend!
Yes he is
The 80s were so much simple no cell phones no social media and movies like this one , thank you for taking me back 30 years😥
You are very welcome
He should have been in Stallone's "The Expendables" . What a missed opportunity ! Great Doku, Thanks
I agree, and you are welcome
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thanks for your kind reply ! Like many here, you gave me a big part of my Childhood and a great memory I look dearly back. Definitely will check out the book. Wish you all the best and really hope we hear more from you.
@@wizards-themagicalconcert5048 Childhood memories are precious so I am happy that I had a part in yours.
True
This one holds a special place in my heart. As an 80’s kid it was by far my fave ninja movie, unique in it’s genre.
Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them. Glad to know this movie was special to you.
My entire childhood was growing up watching the American ninja movies... This documentary means so much. Just to get to see and hear the backstory and see Michael dudikoff again and some of the old actors and actresses is truly amazing and even seeing the writers and directors and the stunt Coordinators is great. Thanks again
You are very welcome, my pleasure. Childhood memories are important.
So cool to see all this people now. Loved all these movies when i was younger. So many great memories. Thanks Sam!!
You are very welcome.
This movie wasn't as big as the karate kid, or the Goonies etc, But for me and my brother when were boys, it was the greatest film in the world.
I am happy that as a kid you felt this way, thanks for being a loyal fan.
Ditto.
#djcol77 same here! brings back such fond memories as a kid.
Cult status ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fuk yeah
I grew up on this and the sequels, when I went into the Marines, I got so many guys hooked on them. Still great movies, just went through them again and they're good!
I'm happy to know you still like them.
I remember watching this movie over and over when I was 8-10 years old! I thought being a ninja was the coolest thing in the world! Now, at the age of 38, it’s nice being taken to those childlike daydream with this movie! Thank you for giving me Great childhood movie!
You are very welcome, It is my pleasure to know that the movie was such an influence in your childhood.
Absolutely, I had my first born, a little boy, 2 weeks ago and you will know that he too will grow up with them! The first two movies in the series were very deared to me. Thank you for acknowledging me and reaching out, it shows the kind man that you are!
This was my first ninja movie ever. I watched it a few years after it came out, I'm guessing around 1992. I was 12 and had to beg my mom if she could rent it cause it was rated R. She watched it alone, then told me I could. Great memories! I've watched it countless times ever since. I watched the other cult ninja movies later and had no clue until today that they were essentially made by the same group of people. American ninja got me into martial arts and gymnastics for over a decade.
Childhood memories are priceless, I am happy to know I contributed some to yours.
RIP Steve W. James 1954-1993
Curtis Jackson ?
He was the man
He inspired so many of us him and Michael this movie was our childhood in Africa
I was very sad to just learn this. He was a very active and healthy man, and he did not live long. Life doesn't seem fair sometimes. RIP Steve James
Steve James was Curtis Jackson when 50 cent was an infant , imagine one of the most important rappers of all time sharing the name of an action character #crazycoincidence
I am a 45 year old Korean man. I still vividly remember seeing American Ninja 4 for the first time at the age of 12. I grew up watching many of your action movies. I found your channel by chance. I got to know the director's face for the first time. Thank you for making a fun action movie. I hope you always stay healthy.
You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious, and thank you for wishing me health.
A childhood favorite... :) and I still love the movie to this day. Thank you mr Firstenberg. :)
I still watch this with my own kids on occasion, even their generation (young teens as I write this) enjoys this film, as I did at that age. Great work and thank you.
You are very welcome. It is a great satisfaction to learn that a new generation of viewers enjoy the movie, and the old guard is still loyal to it and enjoy it as well.
The American Ninja always brings back memories of my teenage days. I loved this movie the moment I watched it. Thank you for this informative documentary.
Michael ADOS You are welcome.
Still and purely classic ninja action movie of all time. 👊👊👊
Best movie ever thanks Sam firstenberg
You're very welcome
Mr sam firstenberg did all the ninja 🥷 movies from the 80s including the show kosugys ones revenge of the ninja 😊
Watched this movie so many times on VHS as a kid in the 80’s and early 90’s, made quite the impression on me as a young boy. Thank you!
You are welcome, childhood memories are presious so we cherish them, glad to know that my directorial wok left such an impression.
This movie was my childhood! It made us all Ninjas! The 80's ruled!
Childhood memories are precious so we cherish them. Glad to be part of yours.
This was B movie karate film that hit on all the right emotions in a very good way. The director had a worldly way about him. The script, the hard working actors, the stunt people all had a hand in making this a very successful film.
You are absolutely right, everyone involved in making this movie was very enthusiastic.
American Ninja 1 and 2 were my favorite ninja movies when growing up.
That's wonderful
Hello mikey
Hey
Hello Matilda
Thanks for the movie, AN2, you are one of the best directors... the ambience of the places, choreography, music, camera perspectives,... what an inspiration!!!! Sweet childhood memories... Thanks from the bottom of my heart!!!
You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious.
I love this film. Michael Dudikoff is amazing. The cast in these films is awesome.
Correct, Michael was the perfect actor to portray the American Ninja. I'm glad you love this film
Why does this sound like Michael have a Japanese last name Dudikoff 😂
Thank you, Sam, for these great movies that were my favorite when I was a kid. Joe gave me so much confidence back then, and Jackson was such a funny character (in a good way).
I still rewatch both movies every summer and can't stop enjoying them. I wish there were more installments directed by you.
Thank you!
You are very welcome; it is good to know that the heroes I directed had such a positive influence on you as a child.
Judie aronson still looks hot
Cool down
Yes, it’s true. I the women don’t look like that anymore. That perfect yet approachable mix.
Courgar is the word your looking for
You damn right
@@alexrain1188 I like the way you put it, Alex...
Thank you for this. This movie brings back great memories of my childhood. My cousins and I would wrap t-shirts around our faces and jump off trees like we were Joe Armstrong.
Thats great childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them.
When I was a kid growing up in the late 80's I must have seen this movie 100 times. This movie is the reason why I got in inducted in 2008 World Grappling Hall Of Fame taking 3rd place. Thank you, American Ninja for your inspiration that continues to inspire the World with a razor sword American Ninja Slash.
Great story and you are very werlcome
My little brother and I taped American Ninja 2 off cable and watched it a hundred times. I don't have words to tell how excited we were to find the first movie in a video store in the city my grandparents lived. You started more than one decades-long love affair with ninja movies. Well done, everyone involved!
Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them.
They don't make movies like this anymore. I was 12 when I saw it and man, did I love it! Great and precious memories. This making of was great to watch too. Nice to see the people who made the movie I enjoyed so much and really was a big part of my childhood. It's not on TH-cam, so let's see if I can find a DVD somewhere, really wanna see the movie again now, 35 years later...! Thank you for making this!
Yes, childhood memories are important and precious so I am glad that a movie that I directed was an important part of your childhood. This video is on the newly released Blu Ray version of the movie that also includes a commentary track.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you, it really was, and it's so cool that I'm able to tell you now, thanks to TH-cam. I wish you well, take care and thanks again!
@@nlsyt3845 Thank you as well
I loved these movies growing up. Now my son watches them nonstop on Amazon Prime with me and he loves them. RIP Steve James.
I am very happy to learn that a second and their generation are still enjoying this movie. Let's attribute it to the memory of Steve James.
So glad they mentioned my friend Steve James. He is missed so much...
This is great. I've always wanted to see these guys off the big screen. I used to watch this with movie with my grandma, who used to love Bruce Lee movies. Thanks for uploading
You are welcome.
Watched it with your grandma? I am flattered to know that your grandmother watched movies that I directed.
Judie still looks great
Chris Coop hasn’t aged a day.
Yes, Indeed
Sam Firstenberg would you be up for a remake or continuation of the series?
Omg shes soo sexy
Judie hasn't aged a bit loved her in Friday the 13th weird science cool blue after midnight kiss kiss bang bang
His first action movie as a director was revenge of the ninja!! An amazing ninja film well done sir
Yes you are right.
Thank you for making this film. It will always be one of my favorites...Micheal was and is a hamdsome and superb actor. He deserved to be in more bigger and recognised films.And yes,Judie Aronson still looks absolutely adorable. Time only makes what's good into what's classic 😊.......
You are very, very welcome.
Aaah, Judie Aronson. A never getting older beauty. 15 years older than me but I felt in love since Weird Science to her. Thank you for this Making of. I still love the American Ninja movies today.
You are very welcome and it's great that you still love the ninja movies even nowadays.
Excellent documentary. It brings back good memories of the 80's and 90's. It's good to see how they made this movie that managed to make 4 more movies. Thanks Sam.
Ariel vargas you are welcome .
I love American ninja, I watched it when I was little with my dad and family...my mom was a huge fan of Michael dudicoff and she claimed including my dad and uncles at that time that I looked a lot like him...He is an inspiration in action movies....This movie is way better than the action movies produced today....I also loved Steve James..May his soul rest in perfect peace..
God bless all the cast and you too Mr. Firstenberg..
Thank you very much, childhood memories are precious.
American Ninja was a “Cult Classic”
And still is today
Sam Firstenberg agreed
Believe it or not, I actually got all five American ninja movies on DVD the other day! I even saw the first three right here on TH-cam and now I can be able to have those movies along with the other two!
Great behind the scenes talk and a special thank you for creating a classic iconic film in the era where ninja movies reigned supreme. Thank you Sam!
You are very welcome, good that you enjoyed the behind the scene.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Great indeed. Are you still working on film projects? It's great to be able to connect with social media nowadays with other creatives.
No' I am not directing anymore.
Great documentary Sam. I remember my childhood best mate Darren and I relentlessly braining each other in his backgarden trying to be Ninjas after watching these movies. What a touchstone, and the cast all look great still.
Also, RIP Steve Lambert - that sequence in Revenge of the Ninja going through the window of the moving van is 🔥
Yes, Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them.
I love this video post. I'm having a beer and looking back at my childhood when I first watched this amazing film. I honestly watch it once a month on my weekends, it never gets old to me. Thanks so much for sharing, good to see Michael & the cute girl from the movie 🙏
Childhood memories are precious that's why we cherish them.
I was a kid in the 90s and American Ninja was a staple 9f my childhood. That's one of the reasons why I was so unto ninjas as a child.
Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them. I'm glad that movies I directed are positive part of your childhood.
There are 5 films for me that I would want if I was stranded forever on an island. This is one of the 5. A pure, simple, no holds barred no fake BS no CGI obsessed REAL FILM with a heart, a serious message, and pure entertainment. Brilliant from top to bottom this film literally has no flaws. Kill Bill cannot hold a candle to this. This, the 5 Deadly Venoms, Crippled Avengers, and Zatoichi are the creme of the crop. Thank you Mr Firstberg for this film and thank you to everyone who was involved in it.
You are so very welcome, It's my pleasure, I appreciate the generous statement.
Mine would be American Ninja 1&2 revenge of the Ninja, Ninja 3 pray for death 👍🏻
This is my favourite movie ever.When my father bought the first VHS player back in the 80's this was one of our first movies.Pirated,badly dubbed and badly recorded.Still,i have watched this about 1000 times.Years later i bought the dvd then blu ray,and i was shocked how many things i hadnt seen and heard before.Also,Judy Aronson was my first crush i think!Thank you Mr.Firstenberg.Greetings from Poland.
You are very welcome. "My favorite movie ever" is a great statement, Dziękuję
I adored these movies as a kid. So glad to have stumbled across this documentary. I must watch all of these films again.
Childhood memories are precious so enjoy your future viewing. You might be interested in the book Stories From The Trenches. Check it out at: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1
this is one of the best movies ever made about ninjas, probably also my favourite one... 🤩
This is a wonderful statement
Thank you for making this Film i Born 1988 and i think i was 6 years old and saw The Film at the First Time i dont now how often i looked that film 100 of Times...Im from Germany and i think because your movies I do martial arts since my age was 9 years and im a German Airborn Soldier for a Long Time ... Thank you a Lot
You are very welcome, I am glad that a movie that I directed influenced you in a positive way.
One of the definitive movies from my childhood, I still watch it a few times a year. I'm so glad this film exists and that this documentary was made, it shows a level of deep affection from the filmmaker and others involved, to the global audience that have embraced it. Judie is still a FOX btw lol...thanks for helping me and so many others to have some positive childhood memories!
You're welcome, I'm glad to be part of making your positive childhood memories.
@@samfirstenberg3719 thank you Sam! I always remember seeing your name on the credits, so great to actually speak with you..bless you for your dedication!
Thanks
Thanks for the upload, I was sometimes watching this movie 2 times a day as a kid... love it so much
You are welcome. that's great, childhood's memories are irreplaceable. I am happy that a movie that I directed was part of yours.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you Sam, I actually directed my first feature last year, COMMANDO NINJA, an indie action comedy tribute to the 80's Action Hero movies, and specially to American Ninja, Revenge of the Ninja and Ninja 3. We did 3 million views total in 7 languages and having your feedback, even on the trailer, would be the best day in my life ahah!
th-cam.com/video/xfBTOZu2jik/w-d-xo.html
Regards, Ben
@@CommandoNinja Congratulation! The trailer looks very campy and funny with the right attitude for this kind of genre action flick of the 80s.
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thanks very much for taking the time, and congratulation for your entire carreer, you made incredible movies. Benjamin
We are forever indebted to you Sam, for your vision and for giving us these Great movies, much Respect always 🙏🥷
It is my pleasure.
Thank you for posting this !
I am a huge fan of your films.
i still love American Ninja and have probably seen this and Revenge of the Ninja more times than any other films. Judie still looks absolutely stunning, wow ! Such a shame to have lost the legend Steve James, he was the coolest !
Swifty Chap Steve was indeed the coolest and thank you for being such a devoted fan.
I would like to thank my great grand father for getting me into the Ninja movies man I love them back then and still now 💪
Your great grandfather watched some movies that I directed? that's impressive, I'm honored.
This movie will always bring back lots of memories from my childhood.
Childhood memories are precious
@@samfirstenberg3719 Indeed they are
I really hope at some point I can meet Michael and tell him how much I just absolutely loved him as Joe Armstrong. Hopefully at some comic con or something I can. I was OBSESSED with this movie as a kid.
That's great, childhood memories are important to cherish.
I hope American Ninja 6 will happen when Michael Dudikoff meet Sho Kosugi in that movies because them both was legend in Hollywood Ninja's Movie 😍😘👍💕
Good Idea
You directed all three of my favorite ninja movies: Revenge of the Ninja, Ninja III: The Domination, and American Ninja. We got our first VCR in 1988 when I was 13, and my friends Corey, Tom, and I rented all three of those movies countless times.
I have them on Blu-ray now; I just wish the picture quality of the Revenge of the Ninja and American Ninja Blu-rays was as good as Ninja III, which is phenomenal. The colors, contrast, and sharpness are perfect, and it has just the right amount of film grain. It's one of the best looking film-to-Blu-ray transfers I've ever seen. I wonder why that is. Did a different company do the transfer, and/or were Ninja III's film source elements in better condition than the other two's?
I don't know the answer but any of the condition you are mentioning might be the reason.
I love all the old ninja movies and still go back to them for my ninja fix 2019
Very well
EthnoEuropean's CountriesAreBeingInvaded the one where she becomes possessed by the ninja who gets killed at the beginning. I actually liked that one especially the beginning. It was number 3 In a series I believe.
I probably watched this over 100+ times as a kid and didn't realize so many other people also loved this movie as much as me until now that I'm seeing all the comments. I used to watch this on VHS and practice the moves and wanted to be a ninja during this time just like everyone else. Really fun movie, great job to everyone involved in making it.
By some estimates more then 100 million viewers saw this movie in the last 36 years around the world. Even today it has many dedicated followers. I am glad you enjoyed it so much.
thank you so much for this video. it brought tears to my eyes. when i was a young boy i got bullied alot and then i saw this movie and michael became a big role model for me , since he was alone he had a tough time and fought hardships. and i loved the sequels. and now 20 years later i see this video and i hear that alot of the team is still friends today. thank you so much for this movie, it really inspired me from a young age and have stayed with me through all these years.
You are welcome. I am so happy to know that a movie that I directed had such an important influence on you as a child, that's great.
Sam was the 80's Ninja filmmaker. He is someone I will never forget and his films will always be in my heart
yes american ninja 1 and 2 are very nice movies, when i was a child i asked my mom if i can see it on tv and go to bed later, i was
immediately impressed by it, after seeing the movies i play ninja outside with my friends for a long time haha, great to see this again
Many boys back then played Ninjas for a long tome. Childhood memories are precious so we cherish them. Happy to be part of yours.
Always loved that movie just seen it for the first time in 25 years but still loved it. Remembered judge aronson's nane without having to look it up and dudikoff is 1 of my favorites
It is nice that you are still an enthusiastic fan.
Sam, this movie meant the world to me back then and still does today. I also loved the soundtrack and wish we could buy it. Some of the music during the fight scenes is so intense and amazing. Great job on casting. The generals daughter may have also been my first crush. Thanks for all the memories!!!
I am glad you like the movie and thanks for the compliments. The General daughter is #JudieAronson facebook.com/JudieAronsonFanPage. Here is a link to the soundtrack th-cam.com/video/_XH8r_jp4ZI/w-d-xo.html
American Ninja 1 & 2 are awesome. Love those movies so much.
Excellent statement
Thank you Sam. Your company made my childhood happily. Especially
with American Ninja movies.
If the movies I directed mad you childhood happy I am happy I was part of it
@@samfirstenberg3719 During certain periods of time i watch all parts of American Ninja, and i feel very nostalgic. In 2004, there was a small television in Bulgaria - "Diema +" which shows 1,2,3 parts almost every month and esspecialy in the summer. Nowdays, all the stunts, effects and other things compared to new movies but for their time they were great.
Good memories are important
My absolute favorite from my childhood...I've seen it hundred times on our home VHS recorder back in the 80s between 1988-1989...
Childhood memories are so precious, so it is nice to know it was your favorite
@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you Sam. Hope you had great Christmas with your family. I wish you a Happy New Year 2023 :) All of your movies are a great memory from my childhood but I can remember that many people were watching them in Poland before 1989 and got positively inspired in their political fight to bring down the Iron Curtain, thanks to their fight and your inspiring stories we live in a much better reality now in Central Europe, although it seems that since Feb this year the old ghosts of the past have returned, maybe we need new movies and a reactivation of Canon Studios :) All the best from Poland :)
You are welcome and thank you for this story. Few years ago, I was in Gdansk Film Festival for screening of American Ninja. Let's hope that central Europe will be safe.
Absolutely LOVED 1&2 and still do!! RIP Steve James
Regarding Steve James check out this link: facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156703727792155&set=a.10150194258962155&type=3&theater
Thanks to the cast and crew of American Ninja for entertaining me day in and out when I was a child.
You are welcome
My all time favorite action film starring my all time favorite action star Dudikoff!!! I still own all my VHS copies of AN, AN2, Avenging Force etc.. Thanks for letting me see how my favorite film was made.. You're the man Sam!
I still have all the VHSs as well. You are very welcome and thanks for being such a devoted fan
Avenging Force is awesome. Even better than the American Ninja franchise.
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Glad i came upon this. I watched AN many times as a young boy back in the day. I thought it was so cool merging the military with martial arts. As a military brat who spent time in the phillpenes at the time this movie was made, I can't help but be reminded of the Philippenes whenver I see this movie.
Excellent, I'm happy to know that this movie I directed, evokes your childhood memories.
Sam, Im a Filmmaker from Spain. See you throught youtube speakin in you making of is a dream for me. I grew up watching this movie, you are great director and this is aweasome film. You should have more subscribers. Mielche and Sam, You are a LEGENDS.
JJ Filmart Thank you for the compliments, I am happy that you enjoyed the movies that I directed
Utterly brilliant film. I was 13 when I first saw this. Was captivated ever since. I used to train myself in my back garden to hone my ninja skills ♥️
Great statement
Sam, thank you so much for the American ninja movies, I just love part 1, and American Ninja 2 is one of my favorite movies of all times, I can watch it from any moment. I grew up, I love a lot of different movies, but American Ninja 2 holds a special place in my heart. Thanks a million!
You are very welcome, nice to know that you like so much a movie that I directed
Awesome to find this!! Thank you! Sooooo soooooo much Mr Firstenberg !! Great work!! What great memories. Ninjas was what it WAS in the 80s!!! Brings me back to my childhood as well. Thank you!! Saving this for multiple watches from now on!!
You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious so I am happy that movie I directed was part of yours.
Thanks a lot for posting this video Mr Firstenberg. It offered a rare insight into the making of the American Ninja. The photographs on set of the crew were great too.
Your movies are truly inspiring and entertaining.
American Ninja 1, American Ninja 2 and Avenging Force were my 3 favourite movies in the 1980s.
Your movies inspired me to study martial arts.
Thanks for being an excellent film director and for bringing many happy childhood memories.
I wish you well in the future.
Shalom.
You are very welcome, and I am happy that you liked it so much.
Thanks very much for the reply. You made my day today.
I really appreciate it. 😊
I was 20 in 85. I remember this like it was yesterday. Loved these movies back then. Thanks for posting.
Wow! These documentarys are incredible! I've always wondered what the behind the scenes was like. Thank you for making these films and caring. The 10 year old boy in me was absolutely gob smacked by these films and watched them repeatedly. You gotta make another American Ninja film! America needs Joe Armstrong now more than ever!!!
I did not make this docus but just posted them. Childhood memories are precious so I am happy to be part of yours.
Thank you, this movie meant a lot to me as a kid. It's still one of my favorite movies.
You are very welcome, I'm glad it was so special to you as a child.
I love these making ofs. I was an 80s kid. How lucky we were. Canon had a lot of crappy movies, but they knew hiw to make great action movies. And Judie Aronson, wow, still gorgeous!
Yes Lucky we were
When I was little kid my dad bought me VHS, and the first movie I have seen on the videotape is American Ninja.Before that I was in the cinema and I had watch American Ninja 2.At least 100 times i had watched the both of them when I was growing up. I wish to thank you Sam for making those movies, because that part of the childhood was the best. And also because in that time I had learned english watching those movies over and over again. I wish you Sam a future succes in your carrier and also in private life.Greetings from Croatia
You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious we should cherish them. We love Croatia
i loved american ninja 2 much more . great classic of our childhood
יש סיר לכול מכסה As log as you love the American Ninja
What a throwback.... I can't thank you all enough for the memories!
You are more then welcome
@@samfirstenberg3719 I watched all of your films, from Enter to all of the American Ninja films! You all did such an amazing job. Some of those locations must have been brutal getting equipment to. The logistics alone was immense I'll bet! Wish I could have an autographed shirt from anyone of those films lol. God bless you Sam!
You are correct some of the locations were challenging but but providing exiting entertainment to the viewers was always my goal. send me an email address or Facebook message and I'll send you back an autographed photo.
@@samfirstenberg3719 OMG, thank you so much. I am truly grateful!!! f.v.s.p.industries@gmail.com
My name is Robert Roggenstein, if there is anything I could ever do to help you please let me know. 🙏❤️
All these Ninja movies were my childhood.
Childhood memories are important
Loved this movie as a kid. Rewatched it recently and still enjoy it.
Steve James is such a loss, rip :(
Yes he is. Glad you enjoyed it
One of the greatest film franchises of all time! I would love to see another American Ninja film. But it must have Michael Dudikoff and hopefully David Bradley. I miss Steve James.
Regarding Steve James check out: facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156703727792155&set=a.10150194258962155&type=3&theater
@@samfirstenberg3719 Peace and blessings be with Steve James.
Im 45 now. back in the 80s i was a little kid and when i first saw enter the ninja i was amazed. best movie i had ever seen. I really thought ninjas had all these powers and abilities. Then
came revenge of the ninja and that was even better. But when American ninja came out it blew me away. The action was incredible. The visuals were off the charts beautiful and i must have watched it 100 times. it was my feel good movie after a tough day at school. it still today is a fun movie to sit back and enjoy and let the problems of the world go away while you watch Dudikoff kick butt. Good job mr Firstenberg!
Yes it was meant to be a "feel good, after a though day" movie. That was our intention. Thank you for the compliments.
It just came to my mind somewhere: "I wonder if there is a making of -video of American Ninja in TH-cam". And there is! Awesome! Too bad it's so short
Check out the video of The making of American Ninja 2 in TH-cam as well. A longer one making of, will be posted soon.
@@ifirsten Yeah, I have watched the second one too. Good to hear there is more of this coming!
This is so refreshing to see the cast after all these years are still in touch and sort of family like. It speaks volumes to the type of unique individuals they are and thus, why this film was a success and still revered till this day. From the director to all the actors, I get a sense they are all pretty selfless and genuine people. Sam has even took that time to respond to most of the comments which is indication to the type of man he is. Salute to the crew for making a great film and being great human beings more importantly.
Thank you for the wonderful compliments and the astute observation
Sam first of all I wanna to say -Thank You for this funtastic movie, my uncle bring the video tape with it (he was seaman) and I watched it in my at this time comunist country and that was absolutly fantastic.Iam big Fun od your movies.
The film was chep-but You All create a real art, Fantastic story, great Actors (Rip Steve James actor with great potencial),Music and this is IT...todays movies are big volume, budget, and there is no passion,there is completly nothing!
I watching your movies with pleasure over and over again!
Thank you for writing about viewing American Ninja back in the time that it was illegal and dangerous to see it. And thank you for the compliments. Check out this book: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1
Saw it with my late father in 1986 at the cinemas
Still one of my favorite 80's movies that I've watched for more than 20 times
Yes, childhood memories are precious.
Revenge of the Ninja is one of your best films with a lot of action scenes. The original American Ninja score was good back in the day.
Correct in Revenge of the Ninja more then half of the movie is pure action.
Yes he was.
Revenge of the Ninja is legendary.
Thank you so much for making this beautiful movie that I loved since I was a child. When joe was reunited with his father and the lessons of bushido I still follow till this day. The code of bushido is truly amazing way .
You are very welcome, I am glad that the movie influenced you in a positive way.
Thanks Sam, i would work for free, if another Ninja movie was made!!!!!
I grew up watching all these movies and I love all of them and still watch them to this day ...they will never get old some of the best movies of the 80s.
Great statement
Michael dudikoff did a sitcom with Brian dennehy called Star of the family from 82-83
So much good memories! Here in Brazil the whole country watched your movies!!! I still do it!!! Thank You Sir!
You are very welcome, we love Brazil.