Jim Kelly, R.I.P.
I just found out that Jim Kelly died yesterday of cancer in San Diego.
Jim Kelly, best known for his role as Williams in Enter the Dragon, was a martial arts instructor before he started doing movies. He also had a successful career as a tennis pro after his film career.
I own some of his other movies, including Black Belt Jones and Black Samurai. Excellent martial artist, a much better actor than his B-Movie career gave him credit for, and from what I hear, a gentleman to his last breath.
Originally posted at my Shaolin Kempo blog
Friday B-Movie Pick: Black Belt Jones
Another martial arts classic staring Jim Kelly. Coming at you straight from 1974, this “kung fu” flick also falls squarely in the blaxploitation sub-genre as well. This is mid-70s low budget drive-in theater fodder in all its glory. Jim Kelly delivers the martial arts goods, and manages to carry this flick with some decent acting chops as well.