As an actor and producer who works in this business I will say the “X” or “it” factor is very real. I met with Wesley Snipes first manager and she said he just had “it’’. I have seen people I personally know who had “it” and years later went on to be bigger stars, but one thing people forget is that this is a film BUSINESS. So if you’re not in in the right circles, don’t have a good agent, publicist, manager or pick good projects to help raise your stock and keep you working within the industry your “X” factor will go unseen while the non “X” factor who had their business together will rise above… I love how you’re covering the politics of the the martial arts/action industry. Keep it up, Viking Samurai
@@hip-hopbodybuildingmotivat1804 there’s no one answer to that, but the best 3 options I can offer you is to get your package together (headshots, reel, resume) and send it to producers/directors who create those type of films or go the Wesley Snipes route and get into non-action films first, build your credits and name, then start making action films. Last option, produce your own action film content and build your own following. Good luck
But first being a movie star and a actor are 2 different things, you can have the X factor for a movie star, but may not be a real actor, or suck at acting, and just play themselves evey movie. But you can also just have it as a actor and be a natural born actor. The best category to be in is if your both at the same time which is a rare small group, They are movie stars and can act as well. Stallone did enough good acting roles to qualify, but this main group would be Like Al pacino, Deniro, Mel gibson, Sean Penn, Johnny Depp, Leo Dicaprio, guys like this. Then there are really good actors that are in a lot of movies even win acting awards but are not famous. I am not famous so I am not a movie star and really dont care about that, I been a working actor, for over 20 years, in all aspects and range of acting, and have real training in it, I did eveything, from TV, series, movies, plays, and shakespere plays. I would say I was a natrual born actor, not a movie star and too me that is way better I would rather someone say man that guy was a good actor, rather then well he was a huge movie star but his acting sucked lol.
thank you for uploading the interview with Sheldon Lettich. it was captivating to hear his experience and describing JCVD in his prime in the movie industry. when you have the chance to interview JCVD, can you interview Claude Goetz? they both seemed to have had a great friendship whilst CG trained him.
@@VikingSamurai i've always found that the relationship between a master and a champion disciple is interesting and insightful. Claude Goetz will scotch all the haters' comments with his words and will expose JCVD's 🏆 legitimacy. this is becoming interesting 🥋
Michael Jai White had the lead role from Undisputed stolen out from under him. I love that so much. I'm not a Jai hater. He's done a bunch a cool stuff over the years. It's just that Mr. Adkins was so much better.
I think those guys just were there at the right time where the musclebound action hero genre was in full swing. Now its all about marvel movies which is different.
@@Kuroganemk2 i'm bpred eith the marvel crap. I might watxh those movies once but i'd never need to rewatch. Not the case with these classics. Have rewatched them many times from childhood till now.
On a side note yes Stallone is proof of that X factor that people don’t see right away and I’m glad he stuck it out because Rocky is possibly one of the greatest characters ever to grace a movie screen, just a magical film
movie stars are like tv stars are like music stars ..sometimes it just happens and sometimes it dont. Not only does the person have to have the "X factor"..BUT they need to have a good work ethic and also people pushing them and supporting them and helping them and seeing their greatness..Its like lightening in a bottle..
Sheldon is just the best! He never disappoints; he always has some totally awesome and epic behind-the-scenes story that nobody else has told before. I could listen to this guy for hours and be on the edge of my seat the whole time.
I'm championing Scott Adkins for Union Jack a British Marvel hero who's an expert in armed and unarmed combat who fights vampires and other monsters. Scott needs that defining role.
It must be AWESOME to be so good at your craft that you can stroll through other's sets giving out ideas and helping where you can. Hats off to you Mr. Lettich!
sheldon should have directed Assassination Games. i remember liking it but it would have been much better if he directed it van damme and scott adkins in it.
Based on the Assassination Games story I’m guessing Scott and Van Damme didn’t get as close to a strong friendship and maybe that’s why in your interview with Scott he didn’t talk too long about his relationship with Van Damme.
Its something missing from a lot of stars today actually - that X factor which people like Van Damme, Stallone, Segal, Schwarzenegger and Harrison Ford have. Back in the 80s and 90s producers and directors would help support actors come up. Is Hollywood still like that now??? I always love your Sheldon interviews - Great content again Viking Samurai.
Another fantastic video VS! I just love hearing your conversations with Sheldon, he has such an awesome perspective! Ordered his book on Amazon and can’t wait to jump into it 🎃
The reason Scott Adkins has not gotten so popular is because the Hollywood studios have not invested into any of his projects. Also Scott Adkins needs his film's to get better promotion, but that's going to be hard from Scott to do if he keeps taking these lowbuget movies. Also I believe Van Damme is more heart felt actor more than Scott Adkins. When Van Damme acts you can feel it in his martial arts and his acting ability as well.
That is very true. They talk about the x factor. But it is more then screen presence. It is the whole package including. I know why michael jai white and Scott atkins aren't bigger. I study film so you ready for the answer here's why? Every single actor has others to compete with. You must be in the top of your field to get hollywood excited. In michael jai White's case. The answer is simple. We have Wesley Snipes. In no way shape or form can Michael compete with Wesley.. So why would hollywood come knocking. Plus once you turn out too many low budget movies. Your turn at the a list is over. As for Scott Adkins. There is a Jason Statham. I picked these example because there very similar to the people I'm comparing them to. A lot of luck, timing all plays a big role. There is no need for then because Jason gets the better scripts. They get the left overs. The ones the bigger stars pass on. You must have your own identity.For Scott Adkins my advice would be to stop only making action movies. Try to better his acting and get cast in a big movie that hits theatres maybe even in a small role. Show the people a different side. Then once he gets established. Then he might get a good action film. This is the route Wesley and Jason took. In the beginning of their careers they didn't do as much martial art films. Wesley was in major league, New Jack City and Sugar Hill none of these a martial art films. Theatre movies are how you get big and noticed. People in straight to video never get famous and any famous people you may mention. Have theatre movies in their filmography. Michael jai white has several that is why he's known. I'm not sure Scott Atkins has any? As for van damn he has personify. Even when he is cheesy. At least he's entertaining. Cheese is better then boring. I totally agree with you. I just like to give my thoughts sometimes.
You are so correct on every thing you said. Also you need money, a good director, cast and most importantly put in the effort to make a good action movie. Because you can be the best martial artist actor in the world, but if you don't put in the effort the film will not come out good.
Safe is my favorite Statham flick. I always felt like us getting robbed of the final fight between The Stath and Anson Mount was a really strange cop-out. It's nice to get the inside scoop on what was up with that. Also, it totally destroys me that Scott Adkins didn't get that role. That would've elevated Safe to being a classic movie instead of just a great movie.
I completely agree with Sheldon. Scott Adkins does have comparable charisma to guys like Wesley Snipes and Jason Statham. The difference being, that he's never been given a chance to be in a film that was given the proper resources to present him to a mainstream audience like those other guys were.
The X-factor is the look, luck of oppertunity to show case good acting in a good movie, sometimes having fame in other industries, like music or in Arnold's case being Mr. Olympia. Alot of politics in the movie business.
If you have the charisma it can get you very far, but you need a lot of luck too. I feel like Bruce Campbell had the x factor, but the big Hollywood execs wouldn't give him a chance.
Spot on Jordan . So Van Damme had the same reservations about Scott Adkins I do and which I have said many times on here. JCVD is right. He knows it. That's why he's where he is. It's also about the character like Viking says and the story and also the MUSIC SCORE!!!. Some actors can't get this into their head i.e. Scott Adkins. Hollywood are seldom wrong. Look at their choices which have been proven correct: Stallone, Arnold, JCVD, Seagal, Charles Bronson, Chuck Noriss. And they have been on the money with all the b and c list action actors; like Bernhard, Scott Akins, Lundgren, The rock etc etc etc. The girls know about the "Xfactor" like Jordan explained below. If you are GOOD ENOUGH, the stars will align and you WILL get there. It has been proven time and time again. Remember the story Trautman told Rambo in Rambo 3 about the sculpture and the stone? "There was a sculptor , he found the stone - a Special Stone , he dragged it home ,he worked on it for months until he finally finished . When it was ready he showed it to his friends and they said he had created a great statue . The sculptor said he hadn't created anything , the statue was always there , he just cleared away the small pieces . We didn't make you (RAMBO) this fighting machine , we just chipped away the rough edges ." Those stars i.e. Stallone, JCVD, Arnold always had it. Stallone struggled at the start until the starts aligned and the rough edges were chipped away.
I think, perhaps, the reason we are having these conversations about Scott is because he *does* have the X-factor and it's somewhat befuddling that he hasn't yet had the breakthrough role he should. I think it is more down to the film industry than any reflection of Adkins himself. One immediate thing that comes to mind is how movies these days favour the 'badass' action character that's largely devoid of normal sensitivity and vulnerability. Boyka is a good example. Compare him with Van Damme's Lionheart and Stallone's Rambo in First Blood. As you touch on in this video with the former, there's real emotion there for the audience to side with the character. I mean, I could imagine talking to either of these characters and liking them. Boyka? I'd run a thousand miles to get away from that guy. I say this whilst acknowledging that Scott played the role written for him to perfection. Those are my thoughts. Another great video, Viking Samurai.
Just like Damon Killian told Arnie in his Running Man show......"I got the Marines, and you got talent"......."and you got more, you got talent, you got charisma.......and you got balls!"
Nobody tops "prime Seagal" in terms of charisma. The guy had so much charisma in his early films, it was amazing. Adkins and Michael Jai White have no chance in that department.
@nico merker not for me.I found him boring.he always talked soo soft and slow.couldn't understand him.he never lost a fight to play the underdog. only movie seagal was decent was,above the law and out for justice
Scott Atkins and Michael Jae White are proof that you don't really need to have your name on huge banner in tinsletown to be successful. They might not make films that are shown in movie theaters, but they constantly work and produce a lot of films back to back, which seems they have made some decent money in the process. When you're a so called movie star, for example, lets use once again, Collin Farrell. During the early 2000s he was starring in a few semi decent flicks. But later on he was making one flop after the next (Alexander, Miami Vice, Total Recall remake) and what happened to his career? He's lucky if he even gets a supporting role now. The big studios don't have faith in him anymore. Same happened to Jamie Foxx. Heck, he even won an Oscar, but what has happened to his career as a leading man? The same. One too many flops have left him doing maybe as a supporting cast in a film here and there. But Scott Atkins and Michael Jae White are good at what they do. They have their own fanbase, they make some decent direct to streaming action flicks, they are fun to watch, and they get plenty of work left and right as the lead actor in their film. And yes. I know some of their films can be questionable from time to time. But lately I've been seeing a plethora of films starring both of them on ROKU, FREEVIE, and TUBI, and they are fun to watch. But I believe if both of them would work on a project with Sheldon, they would do extremely great. Heck, I would pay to see a collaboration like that.
@Isty that might be the case, but it took him almost two decades to get back into the good graces of the big studios. And his role as the penguin, like I pointed out, he is a supporting cast; not the main actor. So I stand by my post, whether you agree or not. And that's ok. There is no shame to agree to disagree
Let me start by saying, Sheldon is a very talented and smart Director, he is legendary. The biggest problem that martial arts actors like Scott Adkins face today is the fact that action movies back in the 80s and 90s have became overshadowed and dethroned from the box office charts by Superheroes and comic galore, and also most of Hollywood have forgotten how to write and produce original action movies and just movies in general as they only remake or reboot everything or pull from sources such as comics and video games. They have to throw out massive budgets to make these films and honestly that's crazy because back when JCVD was in the tops, his movies weren't on a massive budget, like Jackie Chan he was the special effect. They took time with the script and improvising within the scene on a more of a creative level instead of relying on special effects and computers to create that scene for them. You actually had to immerse yourself into the production with actually using your creativity skills and imagination, the actor had to use their body, their emotions and their heart to sell the character that they were playing. Its not so much that Scott Adkins doesn't have that X Factor or anything its just the fact that besides for a few modernized action movies like John Wick and The Bourne Identity series, Marvel and DC have took over the action movie world. Im not knocking all superheroes movies fully but movies like Only the Strong, LionHeart and Rocky had more passion behind their creations by the Directors, writers and producers that were creating them, you could tell that it wasn't all about throwing a big action movie together to make bank, they had more passion and creativity back then. Thank you Sheldon for giving us movies like Only the Strong, Double Impact, LionHeart, Bloodsport and being part of that era and time. Miss those times.. lol Thank you Viking Samurai for also sharing with this generation and keeping the era alive.
“A handsome face and a strong body”- I forget exactly how that Greek saying goes…Bruce Lee, Steve Reeves, Reg Park (Jackie Chan and Jet Li?) Sylvester Stallone, Carl Wathers, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Daniel Bernhardt, Dolph Lundgren, JCVD, Scott Adkins, (James Bond characters : Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan,)Tom Cruise, MJW, Wesley Snipes, Tommy Morrison, Brad Pitt, Batman and all the superhero’s, Mr. T. Chuck Norris’ body wasn’t great but he was somewhat muscular at one point.
Love what you're doing with these interviews dude! This and "Art of Action" making me relive my childhood! Been my swan song for years that Yen, Adkins, and White aren't bigger stars in American films, at least on the level of Statham, Grillo, and Bernthal.
I think there is an X-Factor to a certain extent after the fact Stallone and Arnold and Van Damme came out. Seagal had the potential to be great. Just look at Above The Law and Under Siege. It just depends on who they work with. Andrew Davis brought out the best in Seagal.
I so agree with Sheldon! Rocky was awesome. Rocky II was good but Rocky III was the banger of the series, better than the rest for sure. I put it ahead of Rocky IV in story and character development but IV did have better battle montages. And his training sequence was really what Mohammed Ali trained like in real life. However, still wasn't as good as III! I loved V, but wished he wasn't retired and came out of retirement to beat Tommy Gun in the ring instead of the street as that would have been supremely satisfying. It did not have IV's big fight and it didn't have any of the heart of III even though they tried to tie it in using the old neighborhood and his son (R.I.P.) like VI. Which I am also not a huge fan of. The Creed movies are the fix after Rocky III IMO. Edit: I paused this to type. When I resumed, Sheldon said what I just said about the heart that was in III that wasn't in II or IV, V or VI.
I believe the reason Scott hasn't broken out into more mainstream, large scale films as a leading man is that at this point he is seen so firmly as a B action movie guy, and after so many "lower level" action movies, sadly that is just what he is seen as now, it is a matter of perception. I think that him being perceived in that way, it makes it where casting people now basically write him off and don't consider him etc, "Oh he is the direct to video action guy". Sadly that is the nature of the business. They see him as that and after so many "lower tier" action films I think it gets where they would be almost scared to attach him in a big way because they think it may create the perception that the film itself is one of those "lower level" movies. Even though if given the proper legit role he could likely do well, this is just how producers and such think in Hollywood. As for MJW, I think it's a similar situation, and also MJW had a major meant to be maimstream breakout role with Spawn and the film didn't do well, no fault of his own, he did great actually, but it didn't do well and sometimes one bomb can totally ruin the perception of an actor, unfortunately the way it is. But hey, the guys do many films, have fans, and are steady going, maybe not in the major studio world but there are far worse Hollywood fates than what they are doing.
Thanks for another great video. Totally agree there is something to do with the Mystical Factor regarding about actors and performers. I seem to have similar vibes when I create scripts for certain performers, ofcourse its also the right archetype character that fits them. That 'factor thing' is something acting school cant even teach you. Its a damn shame about SAFE, final fight woulda been better with Scott. I know they fought in EXPENDABLES 2, but from what I heard in an interview they only had like a day to film it, way too short. They should make Scott Johny Cage in the next MK.
13:24 White has more charisma than Snipes as Snipes fell off post jail stint. It really hurt him. Adkins has anti hero charisma which is so different than the stereotypical hero. Deadpool charisma if you will
I've been involved in stage performing my whole life. Either theater or mostly music. I've played countless gigs in both big and small venues and coached dozens of upcoming musicians . The thing is you can have all the skill and talent in the world, but if you aren't born with stage or screen presence your road is going to be very very hard. Before a single note is played I will know, and not just me . The crowd does too wether they realize it or not. I've seen people playing INCREDIBLE music and nobody paid attention, and the next person barely get through songs and the whole place is riveted . Theres a reason its called a screen test. They aren't looking for acting skills, that can be taught. They are looking for presence .
X or IT factor is real and the people decide at the end of the day. The Hollywood machine did try to push Carrot Top as the next comedy guy in the 90's and it didn't work out. Thet were also trying to push Val Kilmer as the next lead guy in the 90's, great character actor but he's not Tom Cruise.
Yeah, Val Kilmer was supposed to be very big as he has even played Batman, The Saint and in that lion themed movie he co-starred with Michael Douglas but he was also a nightmare to work with according to many accounts. I think the industry got also tired of his attitude and then they really decided to push the more easy going Brad Pitt instead of VK at some point.
Hello, Viking Samurai. I think some humans have an "It" factor, but it needs to be couple with the right material, timing needs to be good, and there must be a consistency. I've heard plenty of stories or Arnold, Stallone, even Bruce Lee was dissed by the Americans, that's why he went to China and became a juggernaut over there, went back to the states, to make the most successful Martial Arts film of all time - Enter the Dragon. Created the Martial Arts boom, that led to all the stuff, and guys you and Sheldon speak about. The world is difficult, all the cylinders have to be working to have real success, and to main it. TERRANCE OUT
Taking about Statham have you checked out his screen debut in the shamen music video comin on pretty hilarious , Scott Adkins would be cool in a new big trouble in little china as jack Burtons son
Safe is one of my all-time favorite action movies. Statham rocks it. The only letdown was the ending as it was anticlimactic. Definitely worth your time.
@@VikingSamurai fast editing made Anson Mount’s character look talented in his one “action” scene. But one-on-one with Statham would’ve been hard to fake.
Scott Adkins and Michael Jai White did and still doing amazing movies, but now is a fantasy and Superheroes Era with other billions of dollars franchises. Doesn't matter how good the action and marital art the movie is... they dont have a chance in a boxoffice even against the most week Marvel, DCU or any Disney Pixar movie. Even the great Epic movies are not selling anymore. The great Gladiator movie from Riddle Scott would be a flop in boxoffice today. Scott Adkins Undisputed 2,3,4 are the reference in martial art today from screen to reality. If I'm not mistaken he got some awards on those movies. Scott made the Ninja movies cool again. In Avengement we saw a different side of him even more badass than Boyka in Undisputed. Every single cameo he does in movies are absolutely remarkable. And he can act pretty well. So is not about Scott or Michael not being charismatic. Is about the Hollywood fever today. Is not about the Actor anymore is all about the movie name, the franchise itself sells without any name.
Van Damme is Van Damme. He is specially gifted. He does everything so cool and naturally so you trust him whether it is fighing scene or just emotions. On top of that his kicks and movemens are so cut clear and precise so they are just pleasant to watch. Who has the clue about martial arts shall understand that if you are not trained perfectly are just not capable to do such splits and kicks what he does. Specially if one does martial arts, he or she should realize how hard it is in the reality. That is the justified fact that on the screen JCVD looks much more better than others.
Thats a fact! Were not all born to be physical fighters...and even if we are....were not always...Hollywoods camera standards as in height..build and more important..."looks and charisma"!
Christian Slater just started talking to me like a cool normal dude on this like spy show he did w Taylor Lotner? (Vamp suck films) was like his 15 yr old kid doing a staff fighting scene. Huge True Romance fan but talked to them both they were really chill and cool not stuck up at all
I do really think that MJW or Scott Adkins have both that X-Factor, the problem is that they need to come with something new and fresh, especially in that superhero movies and heroic fantasy tv shows ruled era. Nowadays, people aren't into action heroes and superstars anymore like that but whole universes and franchises, so in order to really get big an actor should have his name closely associated with a particular character. That's why and how Keanu Reeves got to icon status, he's both Neo and John Wick. Henri Cavill is Superman and Gerard the Witcher, Michael B Jordan is Killmonger and still Adonis Creed, Matt Damon is Jason Bourne, Milla Jovovich is Alice, Kate Beckinsale is Selene, Hugh Jackman is Wolverine forever, Jason Momoa is Khal Drogo and Aquaman, Chris Pine is Captain Kirk and Steve Trevor, Vin Diesel is both Dominic Toretto and Riddick, Jason Statham will always be seen as The Transporter, and Channing Tatum wrote himself Magic Mike. Even Stallone wrote himself as Rocky and I think Sly wouldn't have been successful otherwise. People say that Stallone got that X-Factor but I really disagree, hence why he portrayed Rocky so well. Think about it : Rocky is the epitome of the underdog, the guy nobody would notice, well that's originally Sylvester Stallone. An Average joe with a funny face, not really physically attractive and a funny voice who isn't tall either but with a big heart and soul. Same as Rambo. Both characters seems even a little bit slow but you would absolutely get destroyed but underestimating them. Jackie Chan too besides being very talented doesn't originally have that noticeable X-Factor so he created his own style : A very funny Average Joe looking guy with mad stunt and martial arts skills. In brief, I think both MJW or Scott Adkins needs to portray a fictional character who has the potential to lead a franchise or to write themselves one. It would be way better if it's in a science fiction, fantasy or action horror material. Boyka is a cool character who has even a big potential for a type of Starz, Cinemax or Netflix series but Scott needs something more intriguing. If they want to become bigger MJW and Scott need geeks and nerds audience.
Safe is fantastic, and completely underrated. Happy to see Sheldon praise it, Viking have you seen it yet? It would've been incredible to have Adkins in there though...the Expendables 2 fight vs Statham was decent, but a little bit rushed...this would've given the pair up a proper spotlight.
Make sure to buy writer/director Sheldon Lettich's book (Bloodsport, Rambo 3, Lionheart, Double Impact, Only The Strong) from amazon (affiliate link) here: amzn.to/3hkmnBq
@@perryfan49 it is, I tried getting the word out in a pinned a comment on my latest video, it's been getting spammed all over. A bunch of people reached out to me, I heard it's been happening on a lot of TH-cam channels right now.. will make a Community post.
Jcvd movies like Double impact,Lion Heart and Kickboxer these movies had heart and soul to it there stories were about his family or helping his brothers family after a terrible ordeal people can feel the pain and feel connection to these movies it's not just action theres justified drama that keeps you hooked to the storyline, Hollywood just don't care about these stories anymore a few fair enough are good like John Wick some Jason Statham Movies, Extraction just very few,I was impressed with Raid a couple of years ago but these are few and far between, Scott Adkins and MJW have it in them to make the kind of movies from the 80s and 90s and just some of their movies are good but we need the missing story connection and and exceptional Action then we may just get it and enjoy but not any time soon I hope we do think about it MJW in his 50s and Scott in his 40s which is fine and they both still kick ass and look amazing but who is there next after these guys I see no one sadly it's a shame, I mean what's even coming out of Hong Kong Cinema? Come on Sheldon please Double impact 2 and Lion Heart 2 or prequels since that's the trend with Hollywood.
Charisma, movie, and timing...x y z... u need all three... scott has had x and z.. needs the movie.. thats character.. that force behind it. He needs batman, or nightwing, something where he can explode
The villain didn't have a fight because the actor they cast was not a fighter. If Scott had been in the movie, you bet your ass there would have been a fight.
Van damn comes across as a nice guy, but very self conscious around these younger guys with these trick kicks, Michael jar white had same issue with van damn in universal soldiers where VD cut MJWs cool kicks out.
...uhhh...the more i hear Van Damme stories like him saying about Scott Adkins 'I dont know about this guy' to Sheldon and even Scott saying their not really friends....my statue and view of Van Damme begins to crumble little by little.
As per X Factor? I can see it 20 years before it happens. I saw it in Natalie Portman (All the pretty girls) Uma Thurman (The Adventures of Baron Munchausen) and Kiera Knightly from an old commercial. These are just instances. I have so many more. But with each one you can almost see them as an adult at that point. You know if they make the right choices in life they are going to be household names, which all three are. I've been able to do this since 13. Guess i've watched way too many movies lol.
It's like seeing gold flashing in the pan. I saw it with Alec Baldwin when he played a character in Knots Landing and Geena Davis as a character in Riptide. You basically say "Wow! This person belongs in a big movie! They're out of place here."
Uncle Arnold, Stallone, Van Damm even Seagal is was and always will be the greatest 80's action star hero's EVER! 👍Mikal jai, Scott and Bernard and everyone else especially Duan J. are all just cookie cutter ideals. They all do what's already been done they bring nothing new to the table 👎
I would love to hear your opinion on what you think of the movie replicant I think it's a fantastic movie and one of his best acting performances. Thanks for all you do love your videos😉
I am going to ask something that is not meant as a slight. I am genuinely curious as to opinions: Movies Stallone was in that weren't derivative of Rambo and Rocky ?
Cliffhanger, Nighthawks, Daylight and the massively underrated Cobra are all personal favourites of mine when it comes to Sly. Not to mention Tango & Cash and Lock Up!
VD, Segal, Arnold, Stallone they had the charsma the charm you cant teach it no acting class can put that in you. Wesley, Bruce and Brandon lee, Donnie Yen definitely has it. It also poltics in HW what circle you end etc high school games. I think HW to a degree no about other people like Tony jaa, Ilko Uswais, Scott and MJW they have it etc. But because in HW eyes there actors there click Leo, Mark Whalberg, Matt Damon can't do what they can do physically they resent that are not going to let them get bigger than there people. MJW said he been on casting calls and interview where he shows them what he can do. They say man we wish we had some one who can do that MJW said just give me the roll they not doing that. Its a game they play in HW people sell out etc. MJW said he knows all those famous people who are so called bigger than him. They do things for fame and money then they are unhappy. MJW said he was asked to hang out with other famous people to do things for more money more fame he said no but alot of them do sell out then wonder why they have problems
I have to disagree David. Those critics, like Siskel and Ebert, were art film critics that liked little else. When they praised an action flick, it was paid promotion that they did not disclose 99% of the time. That time period was not kind to our beloved genre unless the film had Arnold in it. And to be fair, no one on your Mt Rushmore of Action Stars has Marlon Brando or Johnny Depp method chops. None of them. They were strongman-martial/arts first, acting second. No critic back then would have chosen the one over the other. Sadly. That was the trend. If it weren't, and action flicks exploded mainstream, the Hong Kong exports would have dominated the 90s beyond what Hollywood was doing.
@@VikingSamurai He is. But as far as critical acclaim goes? Its been all down hill since Rocky if you ask the same people. I loved the Expendables franchise even though critically it's barely above average. I thought they were 9/10 across the board myself.
@@NH1973 No way, watch his interviews. This is a consummate professional, Sly. I could never confuse Sly with Rocky. Sly's wisdom lives in Rocky's more simple views. Every line he writes has a piece of him in it.
I think its a mix because you can have it and do nothing with it or true hard work trying to get there...... Look at Arnold Schwarzenegger, Stallone and all the great action stars. Now a day you see people that get fame by TH-cam and even that does not come true stick on your ass but you must do something good too get fame. Like you 😉 75 000 members 👍👍 true hard work. Greetings from the Netherlands 🥋 OSU 🥋
All this action film talk and no mention of Charles Bronson who was also a beast just look at him the 1950's. First big action star got big in his 50's
For Me Its a Bit Of Both I Believe Talent Can Be Thought & Honed But The People That Really Make It To The Top Are Born With Talent Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, Jean Claude Van Damme All Born With Talent - Assassination Games With Seagal & Van Damme Would Have Been Brilliant But These 2 Stars Really Dont Like Each Other More Down To Seagal's Lack Of Respect Towards Van Damme Among Other Martial Artists - For Me Its a Martial Arts Tragedy That Van Damme Never Made a Movie With Chuck Norris Or Steven Seagal Just WHY? To Answer Your Question Talent Always Shines Through.
They should get a big name like Statham then put him on the side of Scott then make a cop movie like lethal weapon so Scott can shine and VOILA. Pll will appreciate Scott more. He has talent, looks and etc but he's poorly marketed. Bad movies choices etc. Maybe he should make me his agent hahaahaha
As an actor and producer who works in this business I will say the “X” or “it” factor is very real. I met with Wesley Snipes first manager and she said he just had “it’’. I have seen people I personally know who had “it” and years later went on to be bigger stars, but one thing people forget is that this is a film BUSINESS. So if you’re not in in the right circles, don’t have a good agent, publicist, manager or pick good projects to help raise your stock and keep you working within the industry your “X” factor will go unseen while the non “X” factor who had their business together will rise above… I love how you’re covering the politics of the the martial arts/action industry. Keep it up, Viking Samurai
Bro, how could i become an action actor like Sly, Arny and Van Dame?
@@hip-hopbodybuildingmotivat1804 there’s no one answer to that, but the best 3 options I can offer you is to get your package together (headshots, reel, resume) and send it to producers/directors who create those type of films or go the Wesley Snipes route and get into non-action films first, build your credits and name, then start making action films. Last option, produce your own action film content and build your own following. Good luck
Thank you bro, i am very happy of your attention
But first being a movie star and a actor are 2 different things, you can have the X factor for a movie star, but may not be a real actor, or suck at acting, and just play themselves evey movie. But you can also just have it as a actor and be a natural born actor. The best category to be in is if your both at the same time which is a rare small group, They are movie stars and can act as well. Stallone did enough good acting roles to qualify, but this main group would be Like Al pacino, Deniro, Mel gibson, Sean Penn, Johnny Depp, Leo Dicaprio, guys like this. Then there are really good actors that are in a lot of movies even win acting awards but are not famous. I am not famous so I am not a movie star and really dont care about that, I been a working actor, for over 20 years, in all aspects and range of acting, and have real training in it, I did eveything, from TV, series, movies, plays, and shakespere plays. I would say I was a natrual born actor, not a movie star and too me that is way better I would rather someone say man that guy was a good actor, rather then well he was a huge movie star but his acting sucked lol.
How does Sheldon look so good. He is more than 70 years old. True legend. He did a lot for action movie genre. BIG Respect...
thank you for uploading the interview with Sheldon Lettich. it was captivating to hear his experience and describing JCVD in his prime in the movie industry.
when you have the chance to interview JCVD, can you interview Claude Goetz? they both seemed to have had a great friendship whilst CG trained him.
Thanks so much for the extra support, as always, greatly appreciated! Getting Claude Goetz would be quite something, I'll try my best.
@@VikingSamurai i've always found that the relationship between a master and a champion disciple is interesting and insightful. Claude Goetz will scotch all the haters' comments with his words and will expose JCVD's 🏆 legitimacy.
this is becoming interesting 🥋
If you want the ultimate view on Van Damme when he got to Hollywood, watch The Go-Go Boys documentary. It's insightful.
@@Trick-Framed thanks very much. the Bluray is in my To-Buy list 😁
@@Hung_P Most welcome.
They all had the look with good presence on screen. I'm impressed with Scott's newer movies. He and Micheal Jai white deserve to be in leading roles.
Michael Jai White had the lead role from Undisputed stolen out from under him. I love that so much. I'm not a Jai hater. He's done a bunch a cool stuff over the years. It's just that Mr. Adkins was so much better.
I think those guys just were there at the right time where the musclebound action hero genre was in full swing. Now its all about marvel movies which is different.
@@Kuroganemk2 i'm bpred eith the marvel crap. I might watxh those movies once but i'd never need to rewatch. Not the case with these classics. Have rewatched them many times from childhood till now.
On a side note yes Stallone is proof of that X factor that people don’t see right away and I’m glad he stuck it out because Rocky is possibly one of the greatest characters ever to grace a movie screen, just a magical film
Great video , keep the great work !!! thanks !!! Sheldon Lettich is a fantastic action director.
I really enjoy these Sheldon interviews. Hope there's more to come.
Great interview with Sheldon Lettich, Love his book!! Great reading Awesome pictures!! Thank you Viking Samurai for this awesome interview!!
movie stars are like tv stars are like music stars ..sometimes it just happens and sometimes it dont. Not only does the person have to have the "X factor"..BUT they need to have a good work ethic and also people pushing them and supporting them and helping them and seeing their greatness..Its like lightening in a bottle..
What he said is quite true. Yes action star needs charisma and screenpresence but also an amazing story with heart and soul.
Love it when you interview Sheldon lettich. it's always a good listen.
Sheldon is just the best! He never disappoints; he always has some totally awesome and epic behind-the-scenes story that nobody else has told before. I could listen to this guy for hours and be on the edge of my seat the whole time.
I'm championing Scott Adkins for Union Jack a British Marvel hero who's an expert in armed and unarmed combat who fights vampires and other monsters. Scott needs that defining role.
I just can't get enough of the Sheldon Lettich interviews.
Awesome video keep up
It must be AWESOME to be so good at your craft that you can stroll through other's sets giving out ideas and helping where you can. Hats off to you Mr. Lettich!
Your Show Has become my therapy Thank You VS ❤😎
Yeah. The camera has to love them, the right part, look, voice etc not everyone is STAR quality...and luck, support etc
Great chat. Adkins would have been awesome in Safe. Mount is a deserving actor though. I’d love to see Scott and Sheldon work together.
I could listen to you and Sheldon talk for hours haha. I love hearing his story’s and you always bring up the best questions and points
U need to have screen presence. When I saw van damme on no retreat no surrender, I knew he was gonna be big.even as a kid
"It is the truth." That is my favorite clip pull on this channel.
Not only MJW and Adkins, let's go back to 30 years ago. Billy Blanks, Jeff Speakman, Mark Dacascos, etc, should've been bigger names in action cinema.
King of the Kickboxers was awesome
sheldon should have directed Assassination Games. i remember liking it but it would have been much better if he directed it van damme and scott adkins in it.
Based on the Assassination Games story I’m guessing Scott and Van Damme didn’t get as close to a strong friendship and maybe that’s why in your interview with Scott he didn’t talk too long about his relationship with Van Damme.
Its something missing from a lot of stars today actually - that X factor which people like Van Damme, Stallone, Segal, Schwarzenegger and Harrison Ford have. Back in the 80s and 90s producers and directors would help support actors come up. Is Hollywood still like that now??? I always love your Sheldon interviews - Great content again Viking Samurai.
Another great listen with Sheldon, what a brain to pick for stories, great stuff mate 👍
Lots more coming this week!
@@VikingSamurai 👍
There are many important factors for sure, always happy to see Sheldon on your channel 💪😎
Another fantastic video VS! I just love hearing your conversations with Sheldon, he has such an awesome perspective! Ordered his book on Amazon and can’t wait to jump into it 🎃
The reason Scott Adkins has not gotten so popular is because the Hollywood studios have not invested into any of his projects. Also Scott Adkins needs his film's to get better promotion, but that's going to be hard from Scott to do if he keeps taking these lowbuget movies. Also I believe Van Damme is more heart felt actor more than Scott Adkins. When Van Damme acts you can feel it in his martial arts and his acting ability as well.
That is very true. They talk about the x factor. But it is more then screen presence. It is the whole package including. I know why michael jai white and Scott atkins aren't bigger. I study film so you ready for the answer here's why? Every single actor has others to compete with. You must be in the top of your field to get hollywood excited. In michael jai White's case. The answer is simple. We have Wesley Snipes. In no way shape or form can Michael compete with Wesley.. So why would hollywood come knocking. Plus once you turn out too many low budget movies. Your turn at the a list is over. As for Scott Adkins. There is a Jason Statham. I picked these example because there very similar to the people I'm comparing them to. A lot of luck, timing all plays a big role. There is no need for then because Jason gets the better scripts. They get the left overs. The ones the bigger stars pass on. You must have your own identity.For Scott Adkins my advice would be to stop only making action movies. Try to better his acting and get cast in a big movie that hits theatres maybe even in a small role. Show the people a different side. Then once he gets established. Then he might get a good action film. This is the route Wesley and Jason took. In the beginning of their careers they didn't do as much martial art films. Wesley was in major league, New Jack City and Sugar Hill none of these a martial art films. Theatre movies are how you get big and noticed. People in straight to video never get famous and any famous people you may mention. Have theatre movies in their filmography. Michael jai white has several that is why he's known. I'm not sure Scott Atkins has any? As for van damn he has personify. Even when he is cheesy. At least he's entertaining. Cheese is better then boring. I totally agree with you. I just like to give my thoughts sometimes.
You are so correct on every thing you said. Also you need money, a good director, cast and most importantly put in the effort to make a good action movie. Because you can be the best martial artist actor in the world, but if you don't put in the effort the film will not come out good.
I've seen a few of his one was shite but the other two assault and the witness were his best ones so far well the ones I've seen so far
Safe is my favorite Statham flick. I always felt like us getting robbed of the final fight between The Stath and Anson Mount was a really strange cop-out. It's nice to get the inside scoop on what was up with that. Also, it totally destroys me that Scott Adkins didn't get that role. That would've elevated Safe to being a classic movie instead of just a great movie.
I agree, I was ready for them to throw hands too
@@thebrownbaldy They built up the hype for half of the movie, and then didn't pay up! Not cool!
@@MatrixCobretti Nothing but facts my guy
I think that being at the right place at the right time is the x factor.
Well, to add to that, right place at the right time but prior to that, having spent years to be prepared for that opportunity.
I completely agree with Sheldon. Scott Adkins does have comparable charisma to guys like Wesley Snipes and Jason Statham. The difference being, that he's never been given a chance to be in a film that was given the proper resources to present him to a mainstream audience like those other guys were.
@@simond7225 Exactly.
The X-factor is the look, luck of oppertunity to show case good acting in a good movie, sometimes having fame in other industries, like music or in Arnold's case being Mr. Olympia. Alot of politics in the movie business.
If you have the charisma it can get you very far, but you need a lot of luck too. I feel like Bruce Campbell had the x factor, but the big Hollywood execs wouldn't give him a chance.
Look at Gary Daniels. Hes good and not gotten big breaks either.hes been in good martial arts movies,but,desvered better
Spot on Jordan . So Van Damme had the same reservations about Scott Adkins I do and which I have said many times on here. JCVD is right. He knows it. That's why he's where he is. It's also about the character like Viking says and the story and also the MUSIC SCORE!!!. Some actors can't get this into their head i.e. Scott Adkins. Hollywood are seldom wrong. Look at their choices which have been proven correct: Stallone, Arnold, JCVD, Seagal, Charles Bronson, Chuck Noriss. And they have been on the money with all the b and c list action actors; like Bernhard, Scott Akins, Lundgren, The rock etc etc etc. The girls know about the "Xfactor" like Jordan explained below. If you are GOOD ENOUGH, the stars will align and you WILL get there. It has been proven time and time again. Remember the story Trautman told Rambo in Rambo 3 about the sculpture and the stone? "There was a sculptor , he found the stone - a Special Stone , he dragged it home ,he worked on it for months until he finally finished . When it was ready he showed it to his friends and they said he had created a great statue . The sculptor said he hadn't created anything , the statue was always there , he just cleared away the small pieces . We didn't make you (RAMBO) this fighting machine , we just chipped away the rough edges ." Those stars i.e. Stallone, JCVD, Arnold always had it. Stallone struggled at the start until the starts aligned and the rough edges were chipped away.
True but in the end Hollywood is filled with chomos and r@#$_&_ as well P Diddy anyone, Harvey Weinstein anybody amongst quite a few others
Love your vídeos vilking, keep up the good work!
I think, perhaps, the reason we are having these conversations about Scott is because he *does* have the X-factor and it's somewhat befuddling that he hasn't yet had the breakthrough role he should. I think it is more down to the film industry than any reflection of Adkins himself. One immediate thing that comes to mind is how movies these days favour the 'badass' action character that's largely devoid of normal sensitivity and vulnerability.
Boyka is a good example. Compare him with Van Damme's Lionheart and Stallone's Rambo in First Blood. As you touch on in this video with the former, there's real emotion there for the audience to side with the character. I mean, I could imagine talking to either of these characters and liking them. Boyka? I'd run a thousand miles to get away from that guy. I say this whilst acknowledging that Scott played the role written for him to perfection.
Those are my thoughts. Another great video, Viking Samurai.
Just like Damon Killian told Arnie in his Running Man show......"I got the Marines, and you got talent"......."and you got more, you got talent, you got charisma.......and you got balls!"
Nobody tops "prime Seagal" in terms of charisma. The guy had so much charisma in his early films, it was amazing. Adkins and Michael Jai White have no chance in that department.
@nico merker not for me.I found him boring.he always talked soo soft and slow.couldn't understand him.he never lost a fight to play the underdog. only movie seagal was decent was,above the law and out for justice
@@paulsmith9192 Everything is a matter of taste. I love "early" Seagal.
His first five movies are classics i can watch them over and over again
Another great interview!
Scott Atkins and Michael Jae White are proof that you don't really need to have your name on huge banner in tinsletown to be successful. They might not make films that are shown in movie theaters, but they constantly work and produce a lot of films back to back, which seems they have made some decent money in the process. When you're a so called movie star, for example, lets use once again, Collin Farrell. During the early 2000s he was starring in a few semi decent flicks. But later on he was making one flop after the next (Alexander, Miami Vice, Total Recall remake) and what happened to his career? He's lucky if he even gets a supporting role now. The big studios don't have faith in him anymore. Same happened to Jamie Foxx. Heck, he even won an Oscar, but what has happened to his career as a leading man? The same. One too many flops have left him doing maybe as a supporting cast in a film here and there.
But Scott Atkins and Michael Jae White are good at what they do. They have their own fanbase, they make some decent direct to streaming action flicks, they are fun to watch, and they get plenty of work left and right as the lead actor in their film. And yes. I know some of their films can be questionable from time to time. But lately I've been seeing a plethora of films starring both of them on ROKU, FREEVIE, and TUBI, and they are fun to watch. But I believe if both of them would work on a project with Sheldon, they would do extremely great. Heck, I would pay to see a collaboration like that.
@Isty that might be the case, but it took him almost two decades to get back into the good graces of the big studios. And his role as the penguin, like I pointed out, he is a supporting cast; not the main actor. So I stand by my post, whether you agree or not. And that's ok. There is no shame to agree to disagree
Let me start by saying, Sheldon is a very talented and smart Director, he is legendary. The biggest problem that martial arts actors like Scott Adkins face today is the fact that action movies back in the 80s and 90s have became overshadowed and dethroned from the box office charts by Superheroes and comic galore, and also most of Hollywood have forgotten how to write and produce original action movies and just movies in general as they only remake or reboot everything or pull from sources such as comics and video games. They have to throw out massive budgets to make these films and honestly that's crazy because back when JCVD was in the tops, his movies weren't on a massive budget, like Jackie Chan he was the special effect. They took time with the script and improvising within the scene on a more of a creative level instead of relying on special effects and computers to create that scene for them. You actually had to immerse yourself into the production with actually using your creativity skills and imagination, the actor had to use their body, their emotions and their heart to sell the character that they were playing. Its not so much that Scott Adkins doesn't have that X Factor or anything its just the fact that besides for a few modernized action movies like John Wick and The Bourne Identity series, Marvel and DC have took over the action movie world. Im not knocking all superheroes movies fully but movies like Only the Strong, LionHeart and Rocky had more passion behind their creations by the Directors, writers and producers that were creating them, you could tell that it wasn't all about throwing a big action movie together to make bank, they had more passion and creativity back then. Thank you Sheldon for giving us movies like Only the Strong, Double Impact, LionHeart, Bloodsport and being part of that era and time. Miss those times.. lol Thank you Viking Samurai for also sharing with this generation and keeping the era alive.
Great points!
“A handsome face and a strong body”- I forget exactly how that Greek saying goes…Bruce Lee, Steve Reeves, Reg Park (Jackie Chan and Jet Li?) Sylvester Stallone, Carl Wathers, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Daniel Bernhardt, Dolph Lundgren, JCVD, Scott Adkins, (James Bond characters : Sean Connery, Pierce Brosnan,)Tom Cruise, MJW, Wesley Snipes, Tommy Morrison, Brad Pitt, Batman and all the superhero’s, Mr. T.
Chuck Norris’ body wasn’t great but he was somewhat muscular at one point.
Chuck never had a great body but his body held up very well with age. The older he became, the better he looked relative to the average man his age.
Some people are born with it, some can recognize it and the rest wait until they can't ignore it anymore.
Love what you're doing with these interviews dude! This and "Art of Action" making me relive my childhood! Been my swan song for years that Yen, Adkins, and White aren't bigger stars in American films, at least on the level of Statham, Grillo, and Bernthal.
I think there is an X-Factor to a certain extent after the fact Stallone and Arnold and Van Damme came out. Seagal had the potential to be great. Just look at Above The Law and Under Siege. It just depends on who they work with. Andrew Davis brought out the best in Seagal.
I so agree with Sheldon! Rocky was awesome. Rocky II was good but Rocky III was the banger of the series, better than the rest for sure. I put it ahead of Rocky IV in story and character development but IV did have better battle montages. And his training sequence was really what Mohammed Ali trained like in real life. However, still wasn't as good as III! I loved V, but wished he wasn't retired and came out of retirement to beat Tommy Gun in the ring instead of the street as that would have been supremely satisfying. It did not have IV's big fight and it didn't have any of the heart of III even though they tried to tie it in using the old neighborhood and his son (R.I.P.) like VI. Which I am also not a huge fan of. The Creed movies are the fix after Rocky III IMO.
Edit: I paused this to type. When I resumed, Sheldon said what I just said about the heart that was in III that wasn't in II or IV, V or VI.
I believe the reason Scott hasn't broken out into more mainstream, large scale films as a leading man is that at this point he is seen so firmly as a B action movie guy, and after so many "lower level" action movies, sadly that is just what he is seen as now, it is a matter of perception. I think that him being perceived in that way, it makes it where casting people now basically write him off and don't consider him etc, "Oh he is the direct to video action guy". Sadly that is the nature of the business. They see him as that and after so many "lower tier" action films I think it gets where they would be almost scared to attach him in a big way because they think it may create the perception that the film itself is one of those "lower level" movies. Even though if given the proper legit role he could likely do well, this is just how producers and such think in Hollywood. As for MJW, I think it's a similar situation, and also MJW had a major meant to be maimstream breakout role with Spawn and the film didn't do well, no fault of his own, he did great actually, but it didn't do well and sometimes one bomb can totally ruin the perception of an actor, unfortunately the way it is. But hey, the guys do many films, have fans, and are steady going, maybe not in the major studio world but there are far worse Hollywood fates than what they are doing.
Thanks for another great video. Totally agree there is something to do with the Mystical Factor regarding about actors and performers. I seem to have similar vibes when I create scripts for certain performers, ofcourse its also the right archetype character that fits them. That 'factor thing' is something acting school cant even teach you.
Its a damn shame about SAFE, final fight woulda been better with Scott. I know they fought in EXPENDABLES 2, but from what I heard in an interview they only had like a day to film it, way too short. They should make Scott Johny Cage in the next MK.
13:24 White has more charisma than Snipes as Snipes fell off post jail stint. It really hurt him. Adkins has anti hero charisma which is so different than the stereotypical hero. Deadpool charisma if you will
I've been involved in stage performing my whole life. Either theater or mostly music. I've played countless gigs in both big and small venues and coached dozens of upcoming musicians . The thing is you can have all the skill and talent in the world, but if you aren't born with stage or screen presence your road is going to be very very hard. Before a single note is played I will know, and not just me . The crowd does too wether they realize it or not. I've seen people playing INCREDIBLE music and nobody paid attention, and the next person barely get through songs and the whole place is riveted . Theres a reason its called a screen test. They aren't looking for acting skills, that can be taught. They are looking for presence .
Thanks for sharing!
I'd like to see Scott Adkins play Richard Dragon, and Michael Jae White play Bronze Tiger!
I absolutely love Lettich.
BTW where did you got your Cannon shirt?
Red Bubble
@@VikingSamurai thanks a lot!
X or IT factor is real and the people decide at the end of the day. The Hollywood machine did try to push Carrot Top as the next comedy guy in the 90's and it didn't work out. Thet were also trying to push Val Kilmer as the next lead guy in the 90's, great character actor but he's not Tom Cruise.
Yeah, Val Kilmer was supposed to be very big as he has even played Batman, The Saint and in that lion themed movie he co-starred with Michael Douglas but he was also a nightmare to work with according to many accounts. I think the industry got also tired of his attitude and then they really decided to push the more easy going Brad Pitt instead of VK at some point.
Hello, Viking Samurai. I think some humans have an "It" factor, but it needs to be couple with the right material, timing needs to be good, and there must be a consistency. I've heard plenty of stories or Arnold, Stallone, even Bruce Lee was dissed by the Americans, that's why he went to China and became a juggernaut over there, went back to the states, to make the most successful Martial Arts film of all time - Enter the Dragon. Created the Martial Arts boom, that led to all the stuff, and guys you and Sheldon speak about. The world is difficult, all the cylinders have to be working to have real success, and to main it.
TERRANCE OUT
Taking about Statham have you checked out his screen debut in the shamen music video comin on pretty hilarious , Scott Adkins would be cool in a new big trouble in little china as jack Burtons son
Safe is one of my all-time favorite action movies. Statham rocks it. The only letdown was the ending as it was anticlimactic. Definitely worth your time.
I did see it after talking with Sheldon. It was entertaining.
@@VikingSamurai fast editing made Anson Mount’s character look talented in his one “action” scene. But one-on-one with Statham would’ve been hard to fake.
Ya, his action scene looked pretty good the way it was shown
Scott Adkins and Michael Jai White did and still doing amazing movies, but now is a fantasy and Superheroes Era with other billions of dollars franchises.
Doesn't matter how good the action and marital art the movie is... they dont have a chance in a boxoffice even against the most week Marvel, DCU or any Disney Pixar movie.
Even the great Epic movies are not selling anymore.
The great Gladiator movie from Riddle Scott would be a flop in boxoffice today.
Scott Adkins Undisputed 2,3,4 are the reference in martial art today from screen to reality. If I'm not mistaken he got some awards on those movies.
Scott made the Ninja movies cool again.
In Avengement we saw a different side of him even more badass than Boyka in Undisputed.
Every single cameo he does in movies are absolutely remarkable.
And he can act pretty well.
So is not about Scott or Michael not being charismatic.
Is about the Hollywood fever today.
Is not about the Actor anymore is all about the movie name, the franchise itself sells without any name.
Van Damme is Van Damme. He is specially gifted. He does everything so cool and naturally so you trust him whether it is fighing scene or just emotions. On top of that his kicks and movemens are so cut clear and precise so they are just pleasant to watch. Who has the clue about martial arts shall understand that if you are not trained perfectly are just not capable to do such splits and kicks what he does. Specially if one does martial arts, he or she should realize how hard it is in the reality. That is the justified fact that on the screen JCVD looks much more better than others.
Sheldon is a great guest
60% Born
30% Made
10% Luck
Facts
Thats a fact! Were not all born to be physical fighters...and even if we are....were not always...Hollywoods camera standards as in height..build and more important..."looks and charisma"!
that expendables/adkin fight scene gave me hope for old school action in modern movies. It truly did.
Christian Slater just started talking to me like a cool normal dude on this like spy show he did w Taylor Lotner? (Vamp suck films) was like his 15 yr old kid doing a staff fighting scene. Huge True Romance fan but talked to them both they were really chill and cool not stuck up at all
I do really think that MJW or Scott Adkins have both that X-Factor, the problem is that they need to come with something new and fresh, especially in that superhero movies and heroic fantasy tv shows ruled era. Nowadays, people aren't into action heroes and superstars anymore like that but whole universes and franchises, so in order to really get big an actor should have his name closely associated with a particular character. That's why and how Keanu Reeves got to icon status, he's both Neo and John Wick. Henri Cavill is Superman and Gerard the Witcher, Michael B Jordan is Killmonger and still Adonis Creed, Matt Damon is Jason Bourne, Milla Jovovich is Alice, Kate Beckinsale is Selene, Hugh Jackman is Wolverine forever, Jason Momoa is Khal Drogo and Aquaman, Chris Pine is Captain Kirk and Steve Trevor, Vin Diesel is both Dominic Toretto and Riddick, Jason Statham will always be seen as The Transporter, and Channing Tatum wrote himself Magic Mike. Even Stallone wrote himself as Rocky and I think Sly wouldn't have been successful otherwise. People say that Stallone got that X-Factor but I really disagree, hence why he portrayed Rocky so well. Think about it : Rocky is the epitome of the underdog, the guy nobody would notice, well that's originally Sylvester Stallone. An Average joe with a funny face, not really physically attractive and a funny voice who isn't tall either but with a big heart and soul. Same as Rambo. Both characters seems even a little bit slow but you would absolutely get destroyed but underestimating them. Jackie Chan too besides being very talented doesn't originally have that noticeable X-Factor so he created his own style : A very funny Average Joe looking guy with mad stunt and martial arts skills. In brief, I think both MJW or Scott Adkins needs to portray a fictional character who has the potential to lead a franchise or to write themselves one. It would be way better if it's in a science fiction, fantasy or action horror material. Boyka is a cool character who has even a big potential for a type of Starz, Cinemax or Netflix series but Scott needs something more intriguing. If they want to become bigger MJW and Scott need geeks and nerds audience.
I agree
@@jamesvaughn4126 👍🏾
Safe is the best Statham flick.
Safe is fantastic, and completely underrated. Happy to see Sheldon praise it, Viking have you seen it yet? It would've been incredible to have Adkins in there though...the Expendables 2 fight vs Statham was decent, but a little bit rushed...this would've given the pair up a proper spotlight.
I saw it, pretty good
The Michael jai white trolling always tickles me 😂
Make sure to buy writer/director Sheldon Lettich's book (Bloodsport, Rambo 3, Lionheart, Double Impact, Only The Strong) from amazon (affiliate link) here:
amzn.to/3hkmnBq
I think someone is spamming your videos. The reply to my comment is potential spam so you should warn people if that’s the case.
@@perryfan49 it is, I tried getting the word out in a pinned a comment on my latest video, it's been getting spammed all over. A bunch of people reached out to me, I heard it's been happening on a lot of TH-cam channels right now.. will make a Community post.
@@VikingSamurai yeah just clicking on the user name people can see it’s a channel that’s only 2 months old so that’s also sketchy.
Jcvd movies like Double impact,Lion Heart and Kickboxer these movies had heart and soul to it there stories were about his family or helping his brothers family after a terrible ordeal people can feel the pain and feel connection to these movies it's not just action theres justified drama that keeps you hooked to the storyline, Hollywood just don't care about these stories anymore a few fair enough are good like John Wick some Jason Statham Movies, Extraction just very few,I was impressed with Raid a couple of years ago but these are few and far between, Scott Adkins and MJW have it in them to make the kind of movies from the 80s and 90s and just some of their movies are good but we need the missing story connection and and exceptional Action then we may just get it and enjoy but not any time soon I hope we do think about it MJW in his 50s and Scott in his 40s which is fine and they both still kick ass and look amazing but who is there next after these guys I see no one sadly it's a shame, I mean what's even coming out of Hong Kong Cinema? Come on Sheldon please Double impact 2 and Lion Heart 2 or prequels since that's the trend with Hollywood.
Extraction was amazing!
Extraction Was indeed, David smashing videos keep them coming enjoy the content 😉 👍.
Charisma, movie, and timing...x y z... u need all three... scott has had x and z.. needs the movie.. thats character.. that force behind it.
He needs batman, or nightwing, something where he can explode
Safe is actually a pretty badass movie, but would have been a waste of Scott Adkins abilities because the villain doesn’t even fight
Well, that was the whole reason why they should've used Scott, to have an amazing fight at the end
The villain didn't have a fight because the actor they cast was not a fighter. If Scott had been in the movie, you bet your ass there would have been a fight.
Given the chance, I still think Scott Adkins would make a great Batman/Bruce Wayne.
Van damn comes across as a nice guy, but very self conscious around these younger guys with these trick kicks, Michael jar white had same issue with van damn in universal soldiers where VD cut MJWs cool kicks out.
...uhhh...the more i hear Van Damme stories like him saying about Scott Adkins 'I dont know about this guy' to Sheldon and even Scott saying their not really friends....my statue and view of Van Damme begins to crumble little by little.
Seagal was the original cast in Assassination Games?! 🤯
How could I become an action movie star, like Sly, Damme and Arny?
Short answer "yes"
yeah x factor sounds badass
As per X Factor? I can see it 20 years before it happens. I saw it in Natalie Portman (All the pretty girls) Uma Thurman (The Adventures of Baron Munchausen) and Kiera Knightly from an old commercial. These are just instances. I have so many more. But with each one you can almost see them as an adult at that point. You know if they make the right choices in life they are going to be household names, which all three are. I've been able to do this since 13. Guess i've watched way too many movies lol.
It's like seeing gold flashing in the pan. I saw it with Alec Baldwin when he played a character in Knots Landing and Geena Davis as a character in Riptide. You basically say "Wow! This person belongs in a big movie! They're out of place here."
@@0912v Something just like that, yes.
Uncle Arnold, Stallone, Van Damm even Seagal is was and always will be the greatest 80's action star hero's EVER! 👍Mikal jai, Scott and Bernard and everyone else especially Duan J. are all just cookie cutter ideals. They all do what's already been done they bring nothing new to the table 👎
I watched No Retreat No Surrender and all i wanted was more JVCD
I would love to hear your opinion on what you think of the movie replicant I think it's a fantastic movie and one of his best acting performances. Thanks for all you do love your videos😉
I may cover that in the future.
@@VikingSamurai thank you so much for the reply😉 looking forward to it 🤞🏻 have a great weekend🍻
Viking samurai when are you doing your cameo role in one of these films
I have plans for something quite a bit bigger
I am going to ask something that is not meant as a slight. I am genuinely curious as to opinions: Movies Stallone was in that weren't derivative of Rambo and Rocky ?
Cliffhanger, Nighthawks, Daylight and the massively underrated Cobra are all personal favourites of mine when it comes to Sly. Not to mention Tango & Cash and Lock Up!
@@81chipper89 thank you.
VD, Segal, Arnold, Stallone they had the charsma the charm you cant teach it no acting class can put that in you. Wesley, Bruce and Brandon lee, Donnie Yen definitely has it. It also poltics in HW what circle you end etc high school games. I think HW to a degree no about other people like Tony jaa, Ilko Uswais, Scott and MJW they have it etc. But because in HW eyes there actors there click Leo, Mark Whalberg, Matt Damon can't do what they can do physically they resent that are not going to let them get bigger than there people. MJW said he been on casting calls and interview where he shows them what he can do. They say man we wish we had some one who can do that MJW said just give me the roll they not doing that. Its a game they play in HW people sell out etc. MJW said he knows all those famous people who are so called bigger than him. They do things for fame and money then they are unhappy. MJW said he was asked to hang out with other famous people to do things for more money more fame he said no but alot of them do sell out then wonder why they have problems
U should do video on kickboxing
Xfactor........ Wasn't that a finishing move from the WWF???
I have to disagree David. Those critics, like Siskel and Ebert, were art film critics that liked little else. When they praised an action flick, it was paid promotion that they did not disclose 99% of the time. That time period was not kind to our beloved genre unless the film had Arnold in it. And to be fair, no one on your Mt Rushmore of Action Stars has Marlon Brando or Johnny Depp method chops. None of them. They were strongman-martial/arts first, acting second. No critic back then would have chosen the one over the other. Sadly. That was the trend. If it weren't, and action flicks exploded mainstream, the Hong Kong exports would have dominated the 90s beyond what Hollywood was doing.
I'd say Stallone is a great actor!
@@VikingSamurai He is. But as far as critical acclaim goes? Its been all down hill since Rocky if you ask the same people. I loved the Expendables franchise even though critically it's barely above average. I thought they were 9/10 across the board myself.
Great writer and director too. People often seem to conflate the real Stallone with Rocky
@@NH1973 No way, watch his interviews. This is a consummate professional, Sly. I could never confuse Sly with Rocky. Sly's wisdom lives in Rocky's more simple views. Every line he writes has a piece of him in it.
I guess most of the people that have made a name for themself developed into finding out what works for them.
You should get Lawrence Bender on here. He’s a good friend of mine if you want me to connect you guys. He has some interesting insights.
That'd be awesome! Please message me or share my contact info with him. Email is realvikingsamurai@gmail.com and Instagram is realvikingsamurai
@@VikingSamurai ok. I’ll give him a call tomorrow.
I think its a mix because you can have it and do nothing with it or true hard work trying to get there...... Look at Arnold Schwarzenegger, Stallone and all the great action stars. Now a day you see people that get fame by TH-cam and even that does not come true stick on your ass but you must do something good too get fame. Like you 😉 75 000 members 👍👍 true hard work. Greetings from the Netherlands 🥋 OSU 🥋
Sheldon should have done Vikings favorite movie....Hard Targer..2! Lol
Maybe Hard Target 3!
Did u ask Sheldon about frank dux calling him a liar about him not writing,bloodsport?
Sheldon book in audio forum
All this action film talk and no mention of Charles Bronson who was also a beast just look at him the 1950's. First big action star got big in his 50's
The answer is both
For Me Its a Bit Of Both I Believe Talent Can Be Thought & Honed But The People That Really Make It To The Top Are Born With Talent Bruce Lee, Chuck Norris, Steven Seagal, Jean Claude Van Damme All Born With Talent - Assassination Games With Seagal & Van Damme Would Have Been Brilliant But These 2 Stars Really Dont Like Each Other More Down To Seagal's Lack Of Respect Towards Van Damme Among Other Martial Artists - For Me Its a Martial Arts Tragedy That Van Damme Never Made a Movie With Chuck Norris Or Steven Seagal Just WHY? To Answer Your Question Talent Always Shines Through.
They should get a big name like Statham then put him on the side of Scott then make a cop movie like lethal weapon so Scott can shine and VOILA. Pll will appreciate Scott more. He has talent, looks and etc but he's poorly marketed. Bad movies choices etc. Maybe he should make me his agent hahaahaha