Last year, I turned 40 and it has been the role of a lifetime. It has pushed me to step into deeper roles of awthentricity as a dad and husband. Moreover, I’ve cast myself into a new role -ACTOR-. Now, the world is my stage.
At the set of Ninja Chronicles with the lead “Jisei” played by Alvin Tam.Last year, I set a goal to reignite my passion for combining my love of acting performance with my love of martial arts movement. It started with doing my homework on the entertainment industry. To land roles, I needed an awesome agent and found Shawna Whitney of VAEntertainment. Through her, I was able to audition for my first role in a martial arts action film pilot called Ninja Chronicles: Invincible, which was filmed in the Okanagan last spring. I had the chance to work with talented filmmaker and actor Matt Brown. I loved every minute of it as I was in my element and living out one of my childhood dreams. The cast included former Cirque du Soleil acrobats and seasoned performers who worked hard to get the right sequences and shots. Both cast and crew were so kind and welcoming that I felt safe and at home, allowing me to give my best both on and off camera. I left set feeling inspired, having also had the opportunity to work with legendary film veteran stunt coordinators, Ernie Jackson and Kirk Caouette.
I learned many valuable lessons from them, but one in particular stood out: martial arts fighting and training in real life is very different from film. I had to unlearn a lot and it has been a humbling experience for someone with over 32 years of martial arts experience.
“Empty your mind…be like water,” Bruce Lee once said, and this quote has kept me humble and motivated to continue growing as a student and performer. I am also inspired by the awesome actor and writer Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul), who at the age of 55 with no prior physical combat experience, trained for 2 years before knowing if he would land the lead role in the critically-acclaimed action movie, Nobody.
This month, I connected with The Stunt Garage to continue my journey as an actor and martial artist, seeking to grow and explore my potential. Thank you to my beautiful wife Paula & kids, who have given me the gift of time to train and pursue my passion. Mahal Kita forever. Thank you Master Derek Sadler for believing in me, sharing your knowledge and mentorship! Thank U M. Cochingco, D. Ta, & crew for welcoming your Kuya Jon Jon to the gym! Let’s go! But 1st, let’s stretch, foam roll, steam sauna, cold plunge, and repeat! 🎥 🥋 👊
