Be Water Poster

Be Water 2020

★ 6.756 votes105 min📅 2020-01-25

"Before the myth, a life lived."

Dive into the compelling documentary *Be Water* (2020), directed by Bao Nguyen, as it unravels the untold story of martial arts legend Bruce Lee.

Director: Bao Nguyen

Cast

Bruce Lee
Bruce Lee
Self (archival)
Linda Lee Cadwell
Linda Lee Cadwell
Self - Wife
Shannon Lee
Shannon Lee
Self - Daughter
Diana Lee Inosanto
Diana Lee Inosanto
Self - Goddaughter
Sam Ho
Self - Film Critic
Jeff Chang
Self - Cultural Critic / Writer
Andre Morgan
Andre Morgan
Self - Film Producer
Doug Palmer
Self - Student / Friend
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Self - Student / Friend
Ruby Chow
Self - Family Friend

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *Be Water* (2020) about?

*Be Water* (2020) follows Bruce Lee's return to Hong Kong in 1971 after Hollywood rejection, where he filmed four iconic movies. Through archival footage and personal testimonies, the documentary explores his struggles with identity, cultural displacement, and his evolving legacy.

Who directed *Be Water*?

*Be Water* (2020) was directed by Bao Nguyen, a filmmaker known for his work in documentary storytelling that blends cultural and personal narratives.

Who stars in *Be Water*?

The documentary features Bruce Lee alongside his wife, Linda Lee Cadwell, and their daughter, Shannon Lee, along with martial arts instructor Diana Lee Inosanto and cultural historian Jeff Chang.

Is *Be Water* (2020) worth watching?

Given its rare archival footage and deeply personal interviews, *Be Water* (2020) is a must-watch for fans of Bruce Lee and documentary films alike. While IMDb ratings are unrated, its thematic depth and emotional resonance make it a standout in the genre.

How long is *Be Water*?

*Be Water* (2020) runs for 105 minutes, offering a concise yet immersive cinematic experience.

🎥 Trailer

About Be Water (2020) — The Real Story Behind Bruce Lee's Unstoppable Spirit

Dive into the compelling documentary *Be Water* (2020), directed by Bao Nguyen, as it unravels the untold story of martial arts legend Bruce Lee. This intimate portrait follows Lee's bittersweet return to Hong Kong in 1971 after Hollywood turned its back on him, leading to the creation of four groundbreaking films. Through rare archival footage, heartfelt interviews with his family—including Shannon Lee and Diana Lee Inosanto—and Lee's own written reflections, the film explores his dual identity as both an outsider and a global icon.

At its core, *Be Water* (2020) is more than a filmmaker's journey—it's a meditation on identity, representation, and the weight of legacy. The documentary captures the raw passion and relentless spirit of Bruce Lee, painting a vivid picture of an era where cultural barriers were as tough as the martial arts discipline he mastered. With a runtime of 105 minutes, this genre-defining film offers a fresh perspective on a man whose influence transcends generations.