Michael Dudikof is a legend!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes he is

The 80's movies had an innocence about them that today's movies don't have. It was so much fun. Even today these movies entertain.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Yes I agree with you

@wavehead89

3 жыл бұрын

The earnestness too!

@Maverick.D.

3 жыл бұрын

80s movies were actually much more violent and graphic than what we have now. Not this film specifically of course, but others.

@vedder10

3 жыл бұрын

@@Maverick.D. guess you haven’t seen any of the John Wick movies, last Rambo movie, any of the Quentin Tarantino movies. Should I continue?

@laalki80

2 жыл бұрын

That's the 80's for ya. Innocence, entertainment and fun. Oh yeah, and cocaine.

This movie makes me think of my dad. He passed away a year ago, but this was one movie we always watched together. Thanks for the memories, Sam.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, memories are precious and I am happy to be part of yours. You are very welcome.

@seki2584

3 жыл бұрын

Yes bro same I always watched this movie with my dad and we both loved it but now I have to watch it alone without him

@bologenkph

3 жыл бұрын

same we watch this movie at midnight

@ayyanabdi7796

2 жыл бұрын

I always watch this movie. I miss the cast a lot.

This was a constant vhs rental for me as a kid. My mom always asked me if i ever got tired of watching the same movie over and over again and i never did. As an 80’s kid american ninja was part of growing up.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious I'm glad that a movie I directed was part of your growing up.

August 30, is the anniversary of the premier screening of AMERICAN NINJA. It was in 1985. How wonderful that this martial arts classic is still alive and kicking, and still resonates with millions of devoted and enthusiastic fans, all over the world. Congratulation to all participants in making this movie - creators, producers, distributors, cast and crew. 🎬🎥

He should have been in Stallone's "The Expendables" . What a missed opportunity ! Great Doku, Thanks

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

I agree, and you are welcome

@wizards-themagicalconcert5048

4 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Thanks for your kind reply ! Like many here, you gave me a big part of my Childhood and a great memory I look dearly back. Definitely will check out the book. Wish you all the best and really hope we hear more from you.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

@@wizards-themagicalconcert5048 Childhood memories are precious so I am happy that I had a part in yours.

@jasonbourne5142

3 жыл бұрын

True

The 80s were so much simple no cell phones no social media and movies like this one , thank you for taking me back 30 years😥

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome

Judie aronson still looks hot

@hareshsukhdeo6068

4 жыл бұрын

Cool down

@alexrain1188

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, it’s true. I the women don’t look like that anymore. That perfect yet approachable mix.

@mveeeditz2333

4 жыл бұрын

Courgar is the word your looking for

@gorgo5418

3 жыл бұрын

You damn right

@ghost7524

3 жыл бұрын

@@alexrain1188 I like the way you put it, Alex...

This movie wasn't as big as the karate kid, or the Goonies etc, But for me and my brother when were boys, it was the greatest film in the world.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

I am happy that as a kid you felt this way, thanks for being a loyal fan.

@Shazamg6

3 жыл бұрын

Ditto.

@lestercimicata352

3 жыл бұрын

#djcol77 same here! brings back such fond memories as a kid.

@gerardedwards1980

3 жыл бұрын

Cult status ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

@paulpolpiboon9535

3 жыл бұрын

Fuk yeah

RIP Steve W. James 1954-1993

@indrashidetoraofficial5239

3 жыл бұрын

Curtis Jackson ?

@gorgo5418

3 жыл бұрын

He was the man

@amouritadi2142

3 жыл бұрын

He inspired so many of us him and Michael this movie was our childhood in Africa

@ropongi1008

3 жыл бұрын

I was very sad to just learn this. He was a very active and healthy man, and he did not live long. Life doesn't seem fair sometimes. RIP Steve James

@mistaefromdtn

3 жыл бұрын

Steve James was Curtis Jackson when 50 cent was an infant , imagine one of the most important rappers of all time sharing the name of an action character #crazycoincidence

This one holds a special place in my heart. As an 80’s kid it was by far my fave ninja movie, unique in it’s genre.

@samfirstenberg3719

8 ай бұрын

Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them. Glad to know this movie was special to you.

American Ninja was a “Cult Classic”

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

And still is today

@efish2968

4 жыл бұрын

Sam Firstenberg agreed

This movie was my childhood! It made us all Ninjas! The 80's ruled!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious so we cherish them. Glad to be part of yours.

American Ninja 1 and 2 were my favorite ninja movies when growing up.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

That's wonderful

@matildaohemeng3998

3 жыл бұрын

Hello mikey

@matildaohemeng3998

3 жыл бұрын

Hey

@mikey803

3 жыл бұрын

Hello Matilda

My entire childhood was growing up watching the American ninja movies... This documentary means so much. Just to get to see and hear the backstory and see Michael dudikoff again and some of the old actors and actresses is truly amazing and even seeing the writers and directors and the stunt Coordinators is great. Thanks again

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, my pleasure. Childhood memories are important.

I love this film. Michael Dudikoff is amazing. The cast in these films is awesome.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Correct, Michael was the perfect actor to portray the American Ninja. I'm glad you love this film

@robertpatras4662

3 ай бұрын

Why does this sound like Michael have a Japanese last name Dudikoff 😂

I remember watching this movie over and over when I was 8-10 years old! I thought being a ninja was the coolest thing in the world! Now, at the age of 38, it’s nice being taken to those childlike daydream with this movie! Thank you for giving me Great childhood movie!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, It is my pleasure to know that the movie was such an influence in your childhood.

@DraziwLestat

4 жыл бұрын

Absolutely, I had my first born, a little boy, 2 weeks ago and you will know that he too will grow up with them! The first two movies in the series were very deared to me. Thank you for acknowledging me and reaching out, it shows the kind man that you are!

This was B movie karate film that hit on all the right emotions in a very good way. The director had a worldly way about him. The script, the hard working actors, the stunt people all had a hand in making this a very successful film.

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

You are absolutely right, everyone involved in making this movie was very enthusiastic.

The American Ninja always brings back memories of my teenage days. I loved this movie the moment I watched it. Thank you for this informative documentary.

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

Michael ADOS You are welcome.

@ronaldlee7566

4 жыл бұрын

Still and purely classic ninja action movie of all time. 👊👊👊

@corybernstein3872

4 жыл бұрын

Best movie ever thanks Sam firstenberg

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You're very welcome

@robertquant1122

9 ай бұрын

Mr sam firstenberg did all the ninja 🥷 movies from the 80s including the show kosugys ones revenge of the ninja 😊

So glad they mentioned my friend Steve James. He is missed so much...

Judie still looks great

@jasonelliott7977

5 жыл бұрын

Chris Coop hasn’t aged a day.

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

Yes, Indeed

@jasonelliott7977

5 жыл бұрын

Sam Firstenberg would you be up for a remake or continuation of the series?

@BiggerThenKingKong

4 жыл бұрын

Omg shes soo sexy

@corybernstein3872

4 жыл бұрын

Judie hasn't aged a bit loved her in Friday the 13th weird science cool blue after midnight kiss kiss bang bang

All these Ninja movies were my childhood.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are important

Watched this movie so many times on VHS as a kid in the 80’s and early 90’s, made quite the impression on me as a young boy. Thank you!

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

You are welcome, childhood memories are presious so we cherish them, glad to know that my directorial wok left such an impression.

I hope American Ninja 6 will happen when Michael Dudikoff meet Sho Kosugi in that movies because them both was legend in Hollywood Ninja's Movie 😍😘👍💕

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Good Idea

When I was a kid growing up in the late 80's I must have seen this movie 100 times. This movie is the reason why I got in inducted in 2008 World Grappling Hall Of Fame taking 3rd place. Thank you, American Ninja for your inspiration that continues to inspire the World with a razor sword American Ninja Slash.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Great story and you are very werlcome

They don't make movies like this anymore. I was 12 when I saw it and man, did I love it! Great and precious memories. This making of was great to watch too. Nice to see the people who made the movie I enjoyed so much and really was a big part of my childhood. It's not on KZread, so let's see if I can find a DVD somewhere, really wanna see the movie again now, 35 years later...! Thank you for making this!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Yes, childhood memories are important and precious so I am glad that a movie that I directed was an important part of your childhood. This video is on the newly released Blu Ray version of the movie that also includes a commentary track.

@nlsyt3845

4 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you, it really was, and it's so cool that I'm able to tell you now, thanks to KZread. I wish you well, take care and thanks again!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

@@nlsyt3845 Thank you as well

Tadashi Yamashita black Star ninja

My little brother and I taped American Ninja 2 off cable and watched it a hundred times. I don't have words to tell how excited we were to find the first movie in a video store in the city my grandparents lived. You started more than one decades-long love affair with ninja movies. Well done, everyone involved!

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them.

Thank you for making this film. It will always be one of my favorites...Micheal was and is a hamdsome and superb actor. He deserved to be in more bigger and recognised films.And yes,Judie Aronson still looks absolutely adorable. Time only makes what's good into what's classic 😊.......

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very, very welcome.

Excellent documentary. It brings back good memories of the 80's and 90's. It's good to see how they made this movie that managed to make 4 more movies. Thanks Sam.

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

Ariel vargas you are welcome .

This is my favourite movie ever.When my father bought the first VHS player back in the 80's this was one of our first movies.Pirated,badly dubbed and badly recorded.Still,i have watched this about 1000 times.Years later i bought the dvd then blu ray,and i was shocked how many things i hadnt seen and heard before.Also,Judy Aronson was my first crush i think!Thank you Mr.Firstenberg.Greetings from Poland.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome. "My favorite movie ever" is a great statement, Dziękuję

One of the definitive movies from my childhood, I still watch it a few times a year. I'm so glad this film exists and that this documentary was made, it shows a level of deep affection from the filmmaker and others involved, to the global audience that have embraced it. Judie is still a FOX btw lol...thanks for helping me and so many others to have some positive childhood memories!

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

You're welcome, I'm glad to be part of making your positive childhood memories.

@paulchakola7372

Жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 thank you Sam! I always remember seeing your name on the credits, so great to actually speak with you..bless you for your dedication!

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

Thanks

Great behind the scenes talk and a special thank you for creating a classic iconic film in the era where ninja movies reigned supreme. Thank you Sam!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, good that you enjoyed the behind the scene.

@VictorWC

4 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Great indeed. Are you still working on film projects? It's great to be able to connect with social media nowadays with other creatives.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

No' I am not directing anymore.

This movie will always bring back lots of memories from my childhood.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious

@mukhtarilyasu9055

2 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Indeed they are

I probably watched this over 100+ times as a kid and didn't realize so many other people also loved this movie as much as me until now that I'm seeing all the comments. I used to watch this on VHS and practice the moves and wanted to be a ninja during this time just like everyone else. Really fun movie, great job to everyone involved in making it.

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

By some estimates more then 100 million viewers saw this movie in the last 36 years around the world. Even today it has many dedicated followers. I am glad you enjoyed it so much.

There are 5 films for me that I would want if I was stranded forever on an island. This is one of the 5. A pure, simple, no holds barred no fake BS no CGI obsessed REAL FILM with a heart, a serious message, and pure entertainment. Brilliant from top to bottom this film literally has no flaws. Kill Bill cannot hold a candle to this. This, the 5 Deadly Venoms, Crippled Avengers, and Zatoichi are the creme of the crop. Thank you Mr Firstberg for this film and thank you to everyone who was involved in it.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are so very welcome, It's my pleasure, I appreciate the generous statement.

@ProfessorKenneth

Жыл бұрын

Mine would be American Ninja 1&2 revenge of the Ninja, Ninja 3 pray for death 👍🏻

I love this video post. I'm having a beer and looking back at my childhood when I first watched this amazing film. I honestly watch it once a month on my weekends, it never gets old to me. Thanks so much for sharing, good to see Michael & the cute girl from the movie 🙏

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious that's why we cherish them.

I know the movie BOMBED, but I still think Michael Dudikoff would've been a better Guile then Van Damme. Just look at the American Ninja scenes with him in it. You can't tell me he doesn't have that look with that hair style.

I am a 45 year old Korean man. I still vividly remember seeing American Ninja 4 for the first time at the age of 12. I grew up watching many of your action movies. I found your channel by chance. I got to know the director's face for the first time. Thank you for making a fun action movie. I hope you always stay healthy.

@samfirstenberg3719

10 ай бұрын

You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious, and thank you for wishing me health.

Steve James was just a walking barrel full of testosterone. What a guy.

yes american ninja 1 and 2 are very nice movies, when i was a child i asked my mom if i can see it on tv and go to bed later, i was immediately impressed by it, after seeing the movies i play ninja outside with my friends for a long time haha, great to see this again

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Many boys back then played Ninjas for a long tome. Childhood memories are precious so we cherish them. Happy to be part of yours.

Thank you for making this Film i Born 1988 and i think i was 6 years old and saw The Film at the First Time i dont now how often i looked that film 100 of Times...Im from Germany and i think because your movies I do martial arts since my age was 9 years and im a German Airborn Soldier for a Long Time ... Thank you a Lot

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, I am glad that a movie that I directed influenced you in a positive way.

Thanks for the movie, AN2, you are one of the best directors... the ambience of the places, choreography, music, camera perspectives,... what an inspiration!!!! Sweet childhood memories... Thanks from the bottom of my heart!!!

@samfirstenberg3719

10 ай бұрын

You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious.

I loved these movies growing up. Now my son watches them nonstop on Amazon Prime with me and he loves them. RIP Steve James.

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

I am very happy to learn that a second and their generation are still enjoying this movie. Let's attribute it to the memory of Steve James.

A childhood favorite... :) and I still love the movie to this day. Thank you mr Firstenberg. :)

I adored these movies as a kid. So glad to have stumbled across this documentary. I must watch all of these films again.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious so enjoy your future viewing. You might be interested in the book Stories From The Trenches. Check it out at: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1

Sam, Im a Filmmaker from Spain. See you throught youtube speakin in you making of is a dream for me. I grew up watching this movie, you are great director and this is aweasome film. You should have more subscribers. Mielche and Sam, You are a LEGENDS.

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

JJ Filmart Thank you for the compliments, I am happy that you enjoyed the movies that I directed

Judie Aronson looks the same since 1985!

@assabirun679

4 жыл бұрын

Yea..its unbelievable how astonishing great she still looks. Still wish she was one to marry. 😊👍

Absolutely LOVED 1&2 and still do!! RIP Steve James

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Regarding Steve James check out this link: facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156703727792155&set=a.10150194258962155&type=3&theater

Menahem Golan and yoram globus are my heroes

Aaah, Judie Aronson. A never getting older beauty. 15 years older than me but I felt in love since Weird Science to her. Thank you for this Making of. I still love the American Ninja movies today.

@samfirstenberg3719

Ай бұрын

You are very welcome and it's great that you still love the ninja movies even nowadays.

I love all the old ninja movies and still go back to them for my ninja fix 2019

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Very well

@nightrider1984

4 жыл бұрын

EthnoEuropean's CountriesAreBeingInvaded the one where she becomes possessed by the ninja who gets killed at the beginning. I actually liked that one especially the beginning. It was number 3 In a series I believe.

i loved american ninja 2 much more . great classic of our childhood

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

יש סיר לכול מכסה As log as you love the American Ninja

Thank you Sam. Your company made my childhood happily. Especially with American Ninja movies.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

If the movies I directed mad you childhood happy I am happy I was part of it

@PlamenUzunov1

2 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 During certain periods of time i watch all parts of American Ninja, and i feel very nostalgic. In 2004, there was a small television in Bulgaria - "Diema +" which shows 1,2,3 parts almost every month and esspecialy in the summer. Nowdays, all the stunts, effects and other things compared to new movies but for their time they were great.

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

Good memories are important

Loved this movie as a kid. Rewatched it recently and still enjoy it. Steve James is such a loss, rip :(

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes he is. Glad you enjoyed it

Thank you for this. This movie brings back great memories of my childhood. My cousins and I would wrap t-shirts around our faces and jump off trees like we were Joe Armstrong.

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

Thats great childhood memories are precious, so we cherish them.

One of the greatest film franchises of all time! I would love to see another American Ninja film. But it must have Michael Dudikoff and hopefully David Bradley. I miss Steve James.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Regarding Steve James check out: facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10156703727792155&set=a.10150194258962155&type=3&theater

@abdulhouser

Жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Peace and blessings be with Steve James.

Thank you for posting this ! I am a huge fan of your films. i still love American Ninja and have probably seen this and Revenge of the Ninja more times than any other films. Judie still looks absolutely stunning, wow ! Such a shame to have lost the legend Steve James, he was the coolest !

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

Swifty Chap Steve was indeed the coolest and thank you for being such a devoted fan.

When I was little kid my dad bought me VHS, and the first movie I have seen on the videotape is American Ninja.Before that I was in the cinema and I had watch American Ninja 2.At least 100 times i had watched the both of them when I was growing up. I wish to thank you Sam for making those movies, because that part of the childhood was the best. And also because in that time I had learned english watching those movies over and over again. I wish you Sam a future succes in your carrier and also in private life.Greetings from Croatia

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious we should cherish them. We love Croatia

Saw it with my late father in 1986 at the cinemas Still one of my favorite 80's movies that I've watched for more than 20 times

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes, childhood memories are precious.

Sam, this movie meant the world to me back then and still does today. I also loved the soundtrack and wish we could buy it. Some of the music during the fight scenes is so intense and amazing. Great job on casting. The generals daughter may have also been my first crush. Thanks for all the memories!!!

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

I am glad you like the movie and thanks for the compliments. The General daughter is #JudieAronson facebook.com/JudieAronsonFanPage. Here is a link to the soundtrack kzread.info/dash/bejne/kYx8mtSYmtOaiqw.html

Thanks for the upload, I was sometimes watching this movie 2 times a day as a kid... love it so much

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are welcome. that's great, childhood's memories are irreplaceable. I am happy that a movie that I directed was part of yours.

@CommandoNinja

4 жыл бұрын

​@@samfirstenberg3719 Thank you Sam, I actually directed my first feature last year, COMMANDO NINJA, an indie action comedy tribute to the 80's Action Hero movies, and specially to American Ninja, Revenge of the Ninja and Ninja 3. We did 3 million views total in 7 languages and having your feedback, even on the trailer, would be the best day in my life ahah! kzread.info/dash/bejne/qpp2trGTpZXQmc4.html Regards, Ben

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

@@CommandoNinja Congratulation! The trailer looks very campy and funny with the right attitude for this kind of genre action flick of the 80s.

@CommandoNinja

4 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 Thanks very much for taking the time, and congratulation for your entire carreer, you made incredible movies. Benjamin

American Ninja is silly, hokey, inexpensive, and not serious at all...and I love every moment of it. The measure of a great film isn't it's budget or box office, or the big names on the poster, but how entertaining it is. And American Ninja is VERY entertaining.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Wonderful observation, I agree

No award but still touched lots of people in the 80's ... and I am one of them... 😍😍 Respect

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you

@matildaohemeng3998

3 жыл бұрын

I loved America ninja 💙

My all time favorite action film starring my all time favorite action star Dudikoff!!! I still own all my VHS copies of AN, AN2, Avenging Force etc.. Thanks for letting me see how my favorite film was made.. You're the man Sam!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

I still have all the VHSs as well. You are very welcome and thanks for being such a devoted fan

@eduardobsn83

4 жыл бұрын

Avenging Force is awesome. Even better than the American Ninja franchise.

@sawekkryczka9304

3 жыл бұрын

fr woj ni jhhhk kvkvivivgiivviifiio

I love these making ofs. I was an 80s kid. How lucky we were. Canon had a lot of crappy movies, but they knew hiw to make great action movies. And Judie Aronson, wow, still gorgeous!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes Lucky we were

I grew up on this and the sequels, when I went into the Marines, I got so many guys hooked on them. Still great movies, just went through them again and they're good!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 ай бұрын

I'm happy to know you still like them.

So cool to see all this people now. Loved all these movies when i was younger. So many great memories. Thanks Sam!!

@samfirstenberg3719

10 ай бұрын

You are very welcome.

thank you so much for this video. it brought tears to my eyes. when i was a young boy i got bullied alot and then i saw this movie and michael became a big role model for me , since he was alone he had a tough time and fought hardships. and i loved the sequels. and now 20 years later i see this video and i hear that alot of the team is still friends today. thank you so much for this movie, it really inspired me from a young age and have stayed with me through all these years.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are welcome. I am so happy to know that a movie that I directed had such an important influence on you as a child, that's great.

Sam, thank you so much for the American ninja movies, I just love part 1, and American Ninja 2 is one of my favorite movies of all times, I can watch it from any moment. I grew up, I love a lot of different movies, but American Ninja 2 holds a special place in my heart. Thanks a million!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, nice to know that you like so much a movie that I directed

This was my first ninja movie ever. I watched it a few years after it came out, I'm guessing around 1992. I was 12 and had to beg my mom if she could rent it cause it was rated R. She watched it alone, then told me I could. Great memories! I've watched it countless times ever since. I watched the other cult ninja movies later and had no clue until today that they were essentially made by the same group of people. American ninja got me into martial arts and gymnastics for over a decade.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 ай бұрын

Childhood memories are priceless, I am happy to know I contributed some to yours.

Im 45 now. back in the 80s i was a little kid and when i first saw enter the ninja i was amazed. best movie i had ever seen. I really thought ninjas had all these powers and abilities. Then came revenge of the ninja and that was even better. But when American ninja came out it blew me away. The action was incredible. The visuals were off the charts beautiful and i must have watched it 100 times. it was my feel good movie after a tough day at school. it still today is a fun movie to sit back and enjoy and let the problems of the world go away while you watch Dudikoff kick butt. Good job mr Firstenberg!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Yes it was meant to be a "feel good, after a though day" movie. That was our intention. Thank you for the compliments.

It just came to my mind somewhere: "I wonder if there is a making of -video of American Ninja in KZread". And there is! Awesome! Too bad it's so short

@ifirsten

5 жыл бұрын

Check out the video of The making of American Ninja 2 in KZread as well. A longer one making of, will be posted soon.

@JV-ll1cu

5 жыл бұрын

@@ifirsten Yeah, I have watched the second one too. Good to hear there is more of this coming!

Dudikoff would be the perfect Guile.

I still watch this with my own kids on occasion, even their generation (young teens as I write this) enjoys this film, as I did at that age. Great work and thank you.

@samfirstenberg3719

8 ай бұрын

You are very welcome. It is a great satisfaction to learn that a new generation of viewers enjoy the movie, and the old guard is still loyal to it and enjoy it as well.

This is so refreshing to see the cast after all these years are still in touch and sort of family like. It speaks volumes to the type of unique individuals they are and thus, why this film was a success and still revered till this day. From the director to all the actors, I get a sense they are all pretty selfless and genuine people. Sam has even took that time to respond to most of the comments which is indication to the type of man he is. Salute to the crew for making a great film and being great human beings more importantly.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the wonderful compliments and the astute observation

Revenge of the Ninja is one of your best films with a lot of action scenes. The original American Ninja score was good back in the day.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Correct in Revenge of the Ninja more then half of the movie is pure action.

@eddiekim2870

4 жыл бұрын

Yes he was.

@TheMatrixxandRhodesShow

4 жыл бұрын

Revenge of the Ninja is legendary.

Michael dudikoff did a sitcom with Brian dennehy called Star of the family from 82-83

These movies are so nostalgic they remind me of my childhood Sitting down in th sitting room with all my 7brothers and mum n Dad and memorizing every single line and after run around with sticks as swords🤣 Thanks to the entire cast ep sam,Michael dudukof,Steve james(looked like my dad those years) sad that he tragically passed away Thank u soo much

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

You are more than welcome, childhood memories are precious.

Sam was the 80's Ninja filmmaker. He is someone I will never forget and his films will always be in my heart

Wow! These documentarys are incredible! I've always wondered what the behind the scenes was like. Thank you for making these films and caring. The 10 year old boy in me was absolutely gob smacked by these films and watched them repeatedly. You gotta make another American Ninja film! America needs Joe Armstrong now more than ever!!!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

I did not make this docus but just posted them. Childhood memories are precious so I am happy to be part of yours.

Cannon films forever ! It was the best film maker company !

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Cannon was a good company to direct films for.

I love American ninja, I watched it when I was little with my dad and family...my mom was a huge fan of Michael dudicoff and she claimed including my dad and uncles at that time that I looked a lot like him...He is an inspiration in action movies....This movie is way better than the action movies produced today....I also loved Steve James..May his soul rest in perfect peace.. God bless all the cast and you too Mr. Firstenberg..

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

Thank you very much, childhood memories are precious.

What a throwback.... I can't thank you all enough for the memories!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are more then welcome

@elcapitanproductions4205

3 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 I watched all of your films, from Enter to all of the American Ninja films! You all did such an amazing job. Some of those locations must have been brutal getting equipment to. The logistics alone was immense I'll bet! Wish I could have an autographed shirt from anyone of those films lol. God bless you Sam!

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are correct some of the locations were challenging but but providing exiting entertainment to the viewers was always my goal. send me an email address or Facebook message and I'll send you back an autographed photo.

@elcapitanproductions4205

3 жыл бұрын

@@samfirstenberg3719 OMG, thank you so much. I am truly grateful!!! f.v.s.p.industries@gmail.com My name is Robert Roggenstein, if there is anything I could ever do to help you please let me know. 🙏❤️

I had this and 2nd movie on a tape as a teen. In USSR we had pirated movies, translated at first watching by a man who did 4 movies a day. A VCR tape costed about average monthly wage. So, I watched first two American Ninjas tons of time.. it has a strong 80s feeling and nostalgia, something that can never be produced in any other decade. Name Michael Dudikoff is very well known in Russia, and even one of the modern KVN teams (competitive comedy league thing very popular on a post-Soviet space and have no analogs in the west) picked a name "Mikhail Dudikov" for themselves because of this actor.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Hello Vlad. I heard the same kind of stories when I visited Poland last year in a film festival in Gdansk. Actually some fans brought the old VHS tapes in white boxes with no labels for me to autograph. Yes I agree that they have a special 1980s filling to them. Michael Dudikoff, as you can tell from his name, actually comes from a Russian descent on his father side. his grandfather was Russian so it is nice that he was so popular in your country. I will forward your comment to him it'll make him happy. All the best, poka, Sam

Thanks a lot for posting this video Mr Firstenberg. It offered a rare insight into the making of the American Ninja. The photographs on set of the crew were great too. Your movies are truly inspiring and entertaining. American Ninja 1, American Ninja 2 and Avenging Force were my 3 favourite movies in the 1980s. Your movies inspired me to study martial arts. Thanks for being an excellent film director and for bringing many happy childhood memories. I wish you well in the future. Shalom.

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, and I am happy that you liked it so much.

@davidbyrne8377

5 жыл бұрын

Thanks very much for the reply. You made my day today. I really appreciate it. 😊

I was born in 1986 a year after this movie released but i came to know about it most recently after watching this movie instantly became my most favorite movie. It's great to see all those most good looking as well as most talented actors now in their 60's in good health and recalling their memories of this movie

@samfirstenberg3719

Жыл бұрын

We are glad you discovered this movie

Awesome to find this!! Thank you! Sooooo soooooo much Mr Firstenberg !! Great work!! What great memories. Ninjas was what it WAS in the 80s!!! Brings me back to my childhood as well. Thank you!! Saving this for multiple watches from now on!!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, childhood memories are precious so I am happy that movie I directed was part of yours.

Thanks Sam, i would work for free, if another Ninja movie was made!!!!!

Sam first of all I wanna to say -Thank You for this funtastic movie, my uncle bring the video tape with it (he was seaman) and I watched it in my at this time comunist country and that was absolutly fantastic.Iam big Fun od your movies. The film was chep-but You All create a real art, Fantastic story, great Actors (Rip Steve James actor with great potencial),Music and this is IT...todays movies are big volume, budget, and there is no passion,there is completly nothing! I watching your movies with pleasure over and over again!

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for writing about viewing American Ninja back in the time that it was illegal and dangerous to see it. And thank you for the compliments. Check out this book: www.amazon.com/Stories-Trenches-Adventures-Hollywood-Firstenberg/dp/3960346697/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Stories+From+The+Trenches%3A+Adventures+In+Making+High+Octane+Hollywood+Movies+With+Cannon+Veteran+Sam+Firstenberg&qid=1580878032&s=books&sr=1-1

I had no idea this was even here on utube..bloody great..😎👍 as i was born in 1976.. i grew up literally watching & loving 80s videos.., & this one remains 1 of my favorite ever movie hire of that decade...except the part where duddikof's master , uses his ninja invisibility & the bad ninja knows where hes gonna appear & throws a ninja star directly at invisibility hitting him in the chest..amazing camera work done with that scene..

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Every scene is part of the overall excitement

Thank you so much for making this beautiful movie that I loved since I was a child. When joe was reunited with his father and the lessons of bushido I still follow till this day. The code of bushido is truly amazing way .

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You are very welcome, I am glad that the movie influenced you in a positive way.

Judie Aronson was so pretty in weird science.

There is this one piece score that was used when Ninjas was doing the training scene that was borrow from the Revenge of the Ninja where Sho Kosugi fights Arthur Roberts. That was pretty cool.

@samfirstenberg3719

4 жыл бұрын

You are right it was done for viewers like you that can notice. We were also under tremendous pressure to finish the editing fast for distribution purposes.

@corybernstein3872

4 жыл бұрын

Arthur Roberts is the man

Thanks to the cast and crew of American Ninja for entertaining me day in and out when I was a child.

@samfirstenberg3719

2 жыл бұрын

You are welcome

Growing up in the 80s and watch Ninja movies were the best. Totally glad i was there to live in those times.

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

We are glad too

Thank you Sam

@samfirstenberg3719

5 жыл бұрын

Chris Coop you are welcome

Michael dudikoff guest starred on Happy days

Every boy with access to a VHS rental store in the 80s and 90s watched the American Ninja films. It was just part of life

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

You're right, it was

I just watched American ninja...and it really transported me to my childhood... I felt as I was watching it for the first time... Remember I was in 7th or 8th grade in my high school in Honduras... And we had Showtime, the Movie Channel, Cinemax and HBO...and when the first American ninja movie was announced, we were thrilled and expectant to see it and see it again... when I saw it, all I wanted was to be a ninja... LOL... Great memories... And Michael Dudikoff indeed will always be the real deal... No one can fill that spot... Low budget movie?? So bad that it's good? Naaaaahhh, that's BS... American ninja became a cult movie... Perfect for the time it came out and still nowadays... Congrats to producers, actors and crew... Don't think a remake will be necessary... Movie is just perfect as it is... Cheers and greetings from Honduras...

@samfirstenberg3719

3 жыл бұрын

Childhood memories are precious, thank you for all the praise and compliments