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Action celebs show support for Latin Influence on Film










Burbank, CA – Art Camacho is one of those few Hispanics that have persevered and demonstrated that with hard work and commitment, dreams can come true. An award-winning action film director, movie celebs such as Martin Kove (Karate Kid), Richard Grieco (21 Jump Street), Don “the dragon” Wilson, Michael Worth (Jabberwock) and more, are listed as some of the special guests at the Martial Arts History Museum this April, 5, to honor the accomplishments of Camacho and the impact of Hispanics on film.

With such groups at Nosotros, the East West Players and many more that were created for support, minorities have faced a long and hard road breaking into the motion picture industry. “The early days of film, mostly non-Hispanics and non-Asians played the lead roles in many cultural-themed movies,” notes museum president Michael Matsuda. “Art Camacho is a man who has become an example for others to follow. As a troubled youth, he redirected his energy into a more positive direction and became the most recognized action film director in the martial arts industry.”

Many of Hollywood’s celebrities will be on hand to honor the accomplishments of Camacho and the role he continues to play by giving back to the community by hosting a number of special events for young people.

“I grew up on the streets of Southeast Los Angeles and was becoming involved in gangs and drugs, but the thing that changed me around was the martial arts. It gave me direction and confidence. I had always dreamed about being in the movies but I never imagined becoming a film director,” says Art Camacho. “By hosting special events, seminars and more for the youth, I feel the martial arts and films create a positive mindset of reaching new goals.”

Camacho’s roots are deep into his community and in fact, he has put over 400 persons into the industry and many have gone on to play in major films including the Avengers, Matrix, Batman, Iron Man, Hawaii five O, Banshee, Revolution etc.

The Martial Arts History Museum provides an historical perspective of martial arts and reveals the unique role the Latin community has played in becoming a part of American History. From the first commercial school owner, Robert Trias, the greatest kickboxer of all time Benny Urquidez; the greatest female kickboxer Graciella Casillas; the first Olympic Gold Medal martial arts champion, Arlene Limas; the first Olympic Gold family of Tae Kwon Do, the Perez family; and the first stuntman to make a successful transition into the director’s chair, Art Camacho.

Officially called Art Camacho Day, the event ceremony will begin promptly at 4 pm with a cost of only $10 to enjoy both the museum and the festivities. Hosted at the Martial Arts History Museum, 2319 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91506. (818) 478-1722, MAmuseum.com. The Martial Arts History Museum is a Non-profit 501(c)(3) organization.