Bill M. Ryusaki

Born:14. Oktober 1936

Place of Birth:Waimea, Hawaii, USA

Died:4. Dezember 2016

Known For:Acting

Biography

Bill M. Ryusaki, born Mutsuto Ryusaki on October 14, 1936, left an indelible mark on Hollywood as a renowned Hawaiian stuntman and actor. Throughout his career, Ryusaki not only showcased his incredible stunt work but also played memorable roles on the big screen, solidifying his place in the film industry. His contributions to the world of stunts and martial arts have made him a legendary figure in cinema history.

Ryusaki's legacy extends beyond his work in front of the camera, as he was instrumental in popularizing Kenpo in the United States. His dedication to the martial arts discipline helped pave the way for its recognition and appreciation in American culture. Ryusaki's expertise and skill in Kenpo added a unique flair to his stunt performances, setting him apart from his peers in the industry.

With a career spanning several decades, Ryusaki's filmography boasts an impressive array of credits, including standout roles in iconic movies such as "Being John Malkovich" (1999), "Big Trouble in Little China" (1986), and "Point of No Return" (1993). His versatility as both a stuntman and actor allowed him to tackle diverse roles with ease, captivating audiences with his on-screen presence and dynamic performances.

Not only did Ryusaki leave a lasting impact on the film industry through his own work, but he also influenced future generations of stunt performers. His children, Kimberly Ryusaki and Ryan Ryusaki, followed in his footsteps and pursued careers in stunt acting, carrying on his legacy and continuing the Ryusaki family's tradition of excellence in the field.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Ryusaki was known for his unwavering dedication to his craft and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what was possible in the world of stunts. His fearlessness and passion for his work were evident in every project he undertook, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike.

Despite his passing on December 4, 2016, Ryusaki's impact on the film industry endures, with his work continuing to inspire and entertain audiences around the world. His contributions to the art of stunts and martial arts have left an indelible mark on Hollywood, solidifying his status as a true pioneer in his field.

In addition to his on-screen achievements, Ryusaki's off-screen persona was characterized by humility, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to mentor and support aspiring stunt performers further cemented his reputation as a beloved figure in the industry.

As fans and colleagues fondly remember Bill M. Ryusaki, they celebrate his remarkable career, his groundbreaking contributions to the world of stunts, and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. His impact on Hollywood and the martial arts community will continue to be felt for years to come, ensuring that his name is forever synonymous with talent, dedication, and innovation.

Filmografie

Schauspiel

Big Trouble in Little China

Wing Kong Hatchet Man

1986

Truck driver Jack Burton gets embroiled in a supernatural battle when his best friend Wang Chi's green-eyed fiancée is kidnapped by henchmen of the sorcerer Lo Pan, who must marry a girl with green eyes in order to return to the human realm.

Being John Malkovich

Mr. Hiroshi

1999

One day at work, unsuccessful puppeteer Craig finds a portal into the head of actor John Malkovich. The portal soon becomes a passion for anybody who enters its mad and controlling world of overtaking another human body.

Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment

Thug (uncredited)

1985

Officer Carey Mahoney and his cohorts have finally graduated from the Police Academy and are about to hit the streets on their first assignment. Question is, are they ready to do battle with a band of graffiti-tagging terrorists? Time will tell, but don't sell short this cheerful band of doltish boys in blue.

Blue Thunder

Vietcong Soldier

1983

Los Angeles, California. Officer Murphy, a veteran Metropolitan Police helicopter pilot suffering from severe trauma due to his harsh experiences during the Vietnam War, and Lymangood, his resourceful new partner, are tasked with testing an advanced and heavily armed experimental chopper known as Blue Thunder.

Point of No Return

Karate Instructor

1993

Hardened criminal Maggie Hayward's consistent violence, even in police custody, ends in the execution chamber. However, top-secret US government agent 'Bob' arranges a staged death, so Maggie can be elaborately trained as a phantom killer and subdued into obedience.

Produktion

The Karate Kid Part II

Stunts

1986

Summoned by his dying father, Miyagi returns to his homeland of Okinawa, with Daniel, after a 40-year exile. There he must confront Yukie, the love of his youth, and Sato, his former best friend turned vengeful rival. Sato is bent on a fight to the death, even if it means the destruction of their village. Daniel finds his own love in Yukia's niece, Kumiko, and his own enemy in Sato's nephew, the vicious Chozen. Now, far away from the tournaments, cheering crowds and safety of home, Daniel will face his greatest challenge ever when the cost of honor is life itself.

Rambo: First Blood Part II

Stunts

1985

John Rambo is released from prison by the government for a top-secret covert mission to the last place on Earth he'd want to return - the jungles of Vietnam.

RoboCop 2

Stunts

1990

After a successful deployment of the RoboCop Law Enforcement unit, OCP sees its goal of urban pacification come closer and closer, but as this develops, a new narcotic known as "Nuke" invades the streets led by God-delirious leader Cane. As this menace grows, it may prove to be too much for Murphy to handle. OCP tries to replicate the success of the first unit, but ends up with failed prototypes with suicidal issues... until Dr. Faxx, a scientist straying away from OCP's path, uses Cane as the new subject for the RoboCop 2 project, a living God.

Double Impact

Stunts

1991

Jean Claude Van Damme plays a dual role as Alex and Chad, twins separated at the death of their parents. Chad is raised by a family retainer in Paris, Alex becomes a petty crook in Hong Kong. Seeing a picture of Alex, Chad rejoins him and convinces him that his rival in Hong Kong is also the man who killed their parents. Alex is suspicious of Chad, especially when it comes to his girlfriend.

RoboCop 3

Stunts

1993

The mega corporation Omni Consumer Products is still bent on creating their pet project, Delta City, to replace the rotting city of Detroit. Unfortunately, the inhabitants of the area have no intention of abandoning their homes simply for desires of the company. To this end, OCP have decided to force them to leave by employing a ruthless mercenary army to attack and harass them. An underground resistance begins and in this fight, RoboCop must decide where his loyalties lie.

Tango & Cash

Stunts

1989

Ray Tango and Gabriel Cash are two successful narcotics detectives who can't stand each other. Crime lord Yves Perret, furious at the loss of income they have caused him, plots an elaborate revenge against them.

Beverly Hills Ninja

Stunts

1997

Haru, an orphaned American who washes ashore in Japan and is mistaken for the great White Ninja of legend. Raised among the finest Ninjas, Haru grows strong and big - very big. With the grace of all Three Stooges rolled into one body, Haru is an embarrassment to his clan. But when a beautiful blonde pleads for his help, Haru is given one dangerous, disastrously funny chance to prove himself.

Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment

Stunts

1985

Showdown in Little Tokyo

Stunts

1991

An American with a Japanese upbringing, Chris Kenner is a police officer assigned to the Little Tokyo section of Los Angeles. Kenner is partnered with Johnny Murata, a Japanese-American who isn't in touch with his roots. Despite their differences, both men excel at martial arts, and utilize their formidable skills when they go up against Yoshida, a vicious yakuza drug dealer with ties to Kenner's past.

The Rookie

Stunts

1990

Veteran cop Nick Pulovski is used to playing musical partners; many of the partners he's had in the past have died on the job, and often as a result of Nick's risky tactics. But the rookie who's been assigned to help Nick bust a carjacking ring is almost as hotheaded as he is … and when Nick gets kidnapped, his newbie partner is his only hope.