Uproxx: In trying to master different genres, you had a chance to direct the first Man With The Iron Fists. What was that process like for you in writing and directing, and what did you learn from that?
RZA: It was the most challenging job I’ve taken to date. And I thought Wu-Tang Clan would be the most challenging job. When I wound up doing A Better Tomorrow, if I wouldn’t have done Iron Fists, I probably would’ve f*cking lost all my hair doing A Better Tomorrow because that was a tough one. But Iron Fists was tougher. What I’ve learned is preparation is one of the keys to success in any man’s life. It’s like, no matter what you’re doing, you can get anywhere you want to go in this world, yo, you can go for it. But you have a map, and you’re prepared for the journey, then most likely you’ll make that journey complete and sound, and safe.
Preparation was one of the greatest lessons I learned from doing that film. It was something my producer warned me of, but I didn’t take heed at first. I was kind of anxious. I wanted to get started. In six weeks I wanted to do the movie. And he said, “No, Bobby, you’re going to need at least 14 weeks of prep.” I was like, I don’t need no 14 weeks, this movie’s been in my head for seven years. But he was right. So that was my greatest lesson. I advise people. I tell my son that all the time. If you want to play basketball, that means you have to come home after school and play all day and prepare. Prepare yourself. Prepare for the game. Don’t wait until you get to the game to warm up.
Full Interview: Uproxx
“The Man With The Iron Fists 2” comes out on DVD April 14th.
