BY: Remae Richardson
Martial arts films have maintained a lasting presence in cinema, evolving across decades while continuing to shape global storytelling. Now, Ryan Watson adds his contribution to the genre with Paper Made, an upcoming film that brings together three artists who have each left a distinct mark on martial arts cinema: Michael Jai White, Taimak, and Walter Jones. For the first time, these figures share the screen, and the newly released trailer offers an early look at what that collaboration will deliver.
Foundations of the Genre
The roots of the martial arts genre stretch back to the late 1930s, with studios like Shaw Brothers and Golden Harvest playing pivotal roles in its development. As noted in historical accounts of the genre,
Shaw Brothers helped expand martial arts cinema beyond Hong Kong, reaching audiences across Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States, ultimately influencing filmmakers worldwide.
Still, the genre’s golden era is widely recognized as the 1970s, driven in large part by Bruce Lee. As Film 89 observes, no discussion of Hong Kong martial arts cinema in that decade is complete without acknowledging Lee’s unparalleled impact, as he redefined the genre through his charisma, skill, and visionary approach to filmmaking.
Breaking Barriers and Building Legacy
Jim Kelly emerged during that era as the first Black martial arts star in film and television. According to Grunge,
His early roles in Melinda (1972) and Enter the Dragon (1973) positioned him as a breakout figure, with the latter film launching his career and elevating him to Black cinema stardom (Grunge, via IMDb).
Enter the Dragon is also widely regarded as one of the greatest martial arts films ever made, a reputation reinforced by its recognition in outlets such as The Guardian. In the years that followed, others built upon that legacy. Taimak became a cultural icon as Bruce Leroy in The Last Dragon (1985), while Michael Jai White expanded the genre’s reach with projects like Mortal Kombat: Legacy (2011). For many, Walter Jones remains a defining figure as the Black Ranger in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (1993–1999), a role that cemented his place in popular culture.
Masters of the Craft
These artists are not simply performers but trained martial practitioners. According to IMDb, Walter Jones studied Taekwondo, while Taimak trained in Chinese Goju, Goju-ryu, Taekwondo, and Jujitsu. Michael Jai White’s extensive background includes black belts in Shotokan Karate, Taekwondo, Okinawan Kobudo, Goju-ryu, Tang Soo Do, Wushu, and Kyokushin Karate (IMDb). Their shared presence in Paper Made signals a rare convergence of experience, discipline, and cultural history within a single project.
Story and Cultural Grounding
Paper Made (2026). Image Source: Wats Tower Media/IMDB
The film centers on a Black martial arts fraternity at an HBCU, grounding its action within a narrative of identity and purpose. As reported by Blexmedia, the story follows Tavon Watkins, played by Myles Truitt, a college student whose academic future is jeopardized after a severe hazing incident. In search of direction, Tavon is drawn into a secret fraternity of Black martial artists who push him to confront his ego, his legacy, and the meaning of brotherhood (Blexmedia). Filming wrapped in March, and anticipation has continued to build.
Ensemble and Authenticity
Beyond its leading trio, Paper Made features a supporting cast rich with martial arts talent. Blexmedia further reports that the ensemble includes Quartay DeNaya, Daria Rae Berenato, Mara Sadè, Jair Muhammad, Sam Lee Herring, Jaden Lucas Miller, Zephaniah Terry, Marrese Crump, Jamara Garrett, Devante Thomas, De’Andre Asbury, Michael Quick McGee, and Cequence Henry, among others. The production notably brings together more than a dozen Black Belt-level martial artists, reinforcing its commitment to authenticity and craft.
A Cultural Moment
More than a genre entry, Paper Made positions itself as a culturally resonant work that bridges legacy and representation. With its trailer debut today, Juneteenth, the film underscores its connection to Black history and artistic expression. Guided by Ryan Watson’s directorial vision and supported by a collective of seasoned and emerging talent, Paper Made stands as both a continuation of martial arts cinema’s legacy and a meaningful expansion of its cultural voice.
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