RZA Launches 36 Cinema, Innovative Live-Commentary Film Platform
36 Chambers, the record label and production house founded by RZA and Mustafa Shaikh, has launched 36 Cinema; a live-commentary film platform. The first-of-its-kind experience will feature live-commentary of classic films, presenting in-depth discussion with directors, actors, critics and superfans. The intent of 36 Cinema is to provide viewers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the films that have inspired and influenced generations of cinephiles.
36 Cinema will feature Shogun Assassin for its next presentation; scheduled for Sunday, May 24th (commencing at 9:15pm EST). RZA will be joined by Dan Halsted (head programmer of the Hollywood Theatre) and Mustafa Shaikh, who will dive into the 1980 jidaigeki film that RZA sampled heavily for GZA’s critically acclaimed debut album Liquid Swords.
On May 16th, 36 Cinema officially kicked off its inaugural event, providing a live-commentary of Shaolin vs Wu Tang: the beloved 1983 martial arts film that inspired Wu-Tang Clan’s name. RZA and Dan Halsted spoke throughout the film’s 87 minute run-time, sharing fascinating insights into one of the most influential yet somewhat underappreciated kung fu films of the past half century. RZA and Dan also answered fan questions in real time, moderated by Mustafa Shaikh.
Memorial Day Weekend is historically one of the highest-grossing weekends for theatrical releases. At a time when the vast majority of theaters across the country are closed, 36 Cinema aims to fill the void and provide a film experience unlike any other, welcoming limitless viewers into a virtual theater from the comfort of their homes. While 36 Cinema was born out of the demand for live-streamed content during COVID-19 lockdowns, the live-commentary concept has thus far proven to be a highly appreciated, evergreen platform that will undoubtedly live on long beyond the current pandemic.
“We’re proud to have created a first-of-its-kind experience in which for 90 minutes, thousands of people across the world were able to take part in a communal experience. We appreciate our audience for spending their Friday night with us during the initial screening, and look forward to continuing to entertain them during Memorial Day weekend.” Mustafa Shaikh
“In our first screening, we showed the Wu Tang sword, which is revered as one of the best sword styles in Kung Fu. This week we want to give the audience a taste of the Japanese sword style with Shogun Assassin. Both Shogun Assassin and Shaolin vs Wu Tang are pioneers in their genre and served as inspirations for the music of Wu-Tang Clan.” – RZA
Purchase tickets for the upcoming Shogun Assassin live-stream on the 36 Cinema website.
