THE CHALLENGER: Watch Bao Tran's Kung Fu Proof Of Concept Now!

It was all the way back in 2007 that we first came across the work of Vietnamese-American director Bao Tran. The occasion at the time was his fabulous short film Bookie, a gorgeous black and white crime drama starring Ken Quitugua as the titular bookie who lays himself on the line for a woman. It was a beautifully directed, beautifully realized piece of work that showcased Quitugua both as a leading man and a screen fighter to such great effect that I've always been surprised that I've always been surprised that he's never really had a 'proper' break through part in the years since.

Since making Bookie Tran has gone on to become very in demand as an editor - he cut this year's Foreign Language Oscar submission from Vietnam - but he's making a foray back into directing with The Challenger.

Estranged Kung Fu classmates are reunited when their master is mysteriously killed in a challenge match. Despite work, family demands, and being dismally out of shape, the sworn brothers must keep their vows made long ago - to defend the honor of the clan at any price.

Envisioned as a feature film, Tran has already shot a proof of concept short film for the piece with Quitugua starring opposite Andy Le. The short is a single location fight sequence designed to give a taste of what is to come in the feature and whet the appetite and it certainly does that. Check out the official website for more details and check out the short - along with Bookie - embedded below!