Where: Martial Arts History Museum, GLENDALE, CA – May 27, 2025 On the last day of Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month (also known as Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month or AAPI) I had the pleasure to participate in a “rare chance to honor the contributions of the Asian American community through the inspiring story of Fumio Demura, whose influence extends far beyond the realm of martial arts into popular culture.”
This documentary THE REAL MIYAGI (originally released in 2015 with the subtitle The Man Behind It All, Fumio Demura) was written, produced and directed by Kevin Derek and co- produced with Oscar Alvarez who was one of the special guests we were promised in the press release.
Kevin is known by Alvarez as Kayvon Derak-Shanian as they have been partnering in a series of videos including More than Miyagi:The Pat Morita Story (2021).
The Real Miyagi snuck up on me and far exceeded my expectations, because it was more than at a mere tribute film (though the late Fumio Demura certainly deserves all the accolades his memory receives). The Real Miyagi shed light on the vast impact a humble martial artist teacher and enthusiast with a selfless Heroes’ Heart can have on people of all ilks. Fumio Demura–known by some as the author of multiple karate and weapons books that have been reliable source-material for studying especially Okinawan forms of empty-hand and handheld weapons–was arguably the first and best at representing martial concepts. My favorite Demura book was, Bo–Karate Weapon of Self-Defense. It contained details of the long-staff kata Sushi No Ko Sho, that people like myself needed as reference when reluctant and overworked teachers were not able to answer all my questions or refine my skills. This film not only chronicles the significance of Demura to the development of martial arts in the United States, but reveals how good guys sometimes finish first, because they are primarily being their own best example. There is no hurry to finish a race with themselves to do the best they can in a particular field. The Real Miyagi adds to the martial mix the relationship of Demura to Pat Morita, the man who played the character of Miyagi in the original Karate Kid films.
We learn that Demura was the first choice to play the part, but that he knew his limitations and that the success of the film would require a real actor such as Morita. It may be one of the few times in filmmaking that the stand-in picked the star. Morita made it no secret (as emphasized in the film) that he was merely trying to channel Demura in his portrayal of Master Miyagi. The documentary showcases the respect that these two men had for one another.
The Free Showing event was hosted by Museum and Martial Arts Hall(s) of Famer, celebrity personality, talk show host, author, public speaker and tv interviewer (including Ode To Life! The Love Story with Holocaust survivors Eddy and Eveline Hoffman) and one of the most prominent figures in the Hawaiian Martial Art known as Lua, Michelle Manu.
Manu, who also serves as an advisory board member of the museum, provided an in-depth look at the creation of this documentary, shedding light on its origins and the significance of808 words with bylines AAPI Month to her personally. Her perfectly tailored comments were an asset to the occasion, as always.
Special guest and co-host actor William Christopher Ford–who has appeared in both The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series–told personal stories including how Fumio Demura was instrumental in his becoming an actor and getting cast in the Karate Kids projects. President of the Martial Arts History Museum, Michael Matsuda was on hand and gave beautifully crafted opening remarks about the founding of the museum and the reason for this particular event:“Each year we attempt to do something different to pay our respect to the Asian American community. The previous year we handed out free stun devices in our combat against Asian-Hate. The following year we hosted self-defense workshops, and this year I think it is appropriate to take a glimpse of the positive contributions of the Asian American community through film, he said.”
Co-Producer, Oscar Alvarez spoke briefly and stuck around to answer questions. About the Martial Arts History Museum: The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the history of martial arts and showcasing its impact on art, culture, and society. Through exhibits, events, and educational programs, the museum strives to promote understanding and appreciation of martial arts traditions worldwide. For more information, visit MAmuseum.com or email info@mamuseum.com
