Cult Classic 'The Last Dragon' Wraps Up Heroes In Color Film Series

The 1985 martial arts film featuring a mostly-black cast is celebrated at a special screening event.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Athens Cinema is hosting a special screening of the 1985 martial arts cult classic "The Last Dragon" on Friday, February 27th at 7:00 p.m. as the finale of their 3rd Annual Heroes In Color film series. The event will include a cocktail, a pre-show trivia contest with prizes, and a celebration of the film's groundbreaking representation of a mostly-black cast in a kung-fu action movie produced by Motown's Barry Gordy, featuring a soundtrack of smooth R&B hits.

Why it matters

"The Last Dragon" was a landmark film that broke tradition by featuring a predominantly African American cast in a kung-fu action movie, helping to increase representation in the genre. The film's blend of martial arts, '80s nostalgia, and Motown sound has cemented its status as a cult classic over the decades.

The details

The film follows Leroy Green, an inner-city youth and kung fu enthusiast whose idol is Bruce Lee. Leroy learns from his master that he is close to achieving the ultimate level of martial arts mastery known as 'The Last Dragon', which will imbue him with a mystical power called 'The Glow'. Leroy then embarks on a quest through the streets of New York to find a master who can help him achieve this goal, but must contend with the villainous Sho'nuff, the self-proclaimed 'Shogun of Harlem', who challenges Leroy to a duel.

  • The screening will take place on Friday, February 27, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

The players

Leroy Green

The film's protagonist, an inner-city youth and kung fu enthusiast whose idol is Bruce Lee.

Sho'nuff

The villainous 'Shogun of Harlem' who challenges Leroy Green to a duel.

Barry Gordy

The head of Motown Records who produced "The Last Dragon" and curated its soundtrack featuring Motown artists.

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What’s next

Tickets are required for the screening and a pre-show trivia contest with prizes will be held.

The takeaway

"The Last Dragon" stands as a landmark film that increased representation of African Americans in the kung-fu genre, while also delivering a nostalgic blend of '80s style, Motown music, and martial arts action that has cemented its status as a beloved cult classic.