From the Slums of Shaolin..

In ancient times, the Shaolin monastery was a home for righteous monks to study Buddhism and master the martial arts for both physical and mental discipline. They studied the mannerism of reptiles and other animals, and developed superior fighting techniques. One of the deadliest of all kung fu styles was the famed Wu-Tang sword, an invincible weapon mastered only by accomplished monks. When a student mastered a chamber, he was given a gold tooth; this disciple's smile displayed a mouthful of gold.
One young warrior advanced through all 35 chambers of martial arts and there were no more chambers to master, so he told the Abbot he wished to start a 36th. Courtesy : houseoftherisingson

Enter The WU....

This is the history that continues centuries later and sparked a rap music revolution in 1993, which the world would come to know as The Wu-Tang Clan. The group's first album, Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) is regarded as the most influential Rap album of the 90's. Not just because of the lyrics and the genre it personified but for the marketing and business savvy that propelled the legendary group to infamy.

The concept was to establish The Wu-Tang as a face with one debut album. Once deeply rooted in music culture, they would spin-off into as many side projects as possible. This way each individual group member would become a star and receive individual royalty checks. The strategy worked and took that first album platinum while slowly building a fan base of 20 million worldwide and earning them accolades as one of the 50 best albums of the 1990's. Pitchfork Media summed it up as follows:

"This is the sound of accidental fame. Something as unique and unusual as this record isn't supposed to find itself at the height of commercial viability; it's supposed to smolder underground, hidden from the view of mainstream America, who surely would not be ready for such a challenge. But America was ready, in part because this one challenged convention, not listeners. "

Now, Hip-Hop Music Video Impresario and Director of the acclaimed "Bloody Streetz" and "Liberia: The Love OF Liberty Brought Us Here," Gerald "Gee-Bee" Barclay brings the story of this award-winning rap group to life in the soon to be released Documentary; "WU: The Story Of The Wu-Tang Clan."

In my recent interview with Gee-Bee, he described the documentary as "an inspiring tale of the Clan's rise to power, fall from greatness, and Phoenix-like rebirth." He also revealed that the documentary would include never before seen rare concert footage, candid interviews and would offer information that might shatter rumors and answer long awaited questions.

Here's an excerpt from my interview with Gee-Bee:

Saba, Ink: I understand that it took 13 years to finish this documentary. What kept you motivated?

Gee-Bee:My career is so parallel to the WU. We started our careers together in the music industry and grew from Staten Island, NY. Over the years, I created videos for them and was always kept in the loop through group members and associates.

Saba, Ink: So, what has the response been to the movie so far?

Gee-Bee:The response has been tremendous. As a matter of fact, we will be screening it during the Pan African Film & Arts Festival at the Magic Johnson Theater in LA. That should be between February 8-19, 2007.

Saba, Ink: What would you say to fans and others that doubt the validity of this documentary?

Gee-Bee:I'd have to say that I am the only filmmaker that has had full access to the WU over the years. For example when ODB was released from prison, I was invited by his family to film the occassion at their home. I was able to share that intimate time with his family and friends which you will get to see. I was also given the opportunity to travel on the bus with the guys during their ODB Tribute Tour, which is also included in the documentary. Back in the day, I had a public access show in Staten Island which I had featured interviews with the WU. I have been given full access over the years and therefore possess the most important and probably most historically accurate footage on the group.

Saba, Ink: Wow, that is impressive!

Saba, Ink: With the passing of famed group member ODB, was the production affected in any way?

Gee-Bee:His passing allowed me to review the project up until that point. I realized what an important part he played in the group's life and dynamic. It also reminded me about my history with them....I realized that my success is theirs and vice-versa. ODB's death really inspired me to release this tribute documentary to the WU.

Saba, Ink: The artist Nas with his new album "claims" that Hip Hop is dead. If that is the case, how relevent is this documentary right now?

Gee-Bee: The Story Of The Wu-Tang Clan should serve as theraphy and a cultural lesson. Hip-Hop tends to forget. As I worked on editing and other aspects of the film, I was reminded about my beginnings and the passion we all had for the business. It was not just about the money, it was about makin' it on our own terms. This film reminds people about the things that did not exist before the WU. They are part of Hip-Hop history so much so that VH-1 recently did a tribute to them. The WU will always be relevant to music especially HIP-HOP History.

Saba, Ink: How do you plan to distribute this film?

Gee-Bee:Right now we have a few deals on the table and are contemplating the Theatre vs. DVD route. We will certainly let everyone know when the decision is made. This is critical information and is the ultimate time-capsule for WU fans. I want to make the right decision for all concerned.

Saba, Ink: Is it true that group member GZA has a film project out as well?

Gee-Bee: He does. That is why I waited a little longer to release this piece. I did not want to take away his thunder. However, my perspective is totally different from his.

Saba, Ink:What about this other film I've heard about...Rock The Bells? Isn't that about the WU as well?

GeeBee: Yes it is.

Saba, Ink: So, which project is better?

GeeBee: (laughs out loud) I'll let the audience decide.

Saba, Ink: Enough said. I know you are in the middle of another project so I'll catch you later for a Part II. Thank you for your time and the opportunity to do this exclusive.

Gee-Bee:(smiles)Sounds like a plan and we'll talk soon. Gerald "Gee-Bee" Barclay first came to prominence in 1993/1994 as the director for ground breaking videos for fellow Staten Islanders, The Wu-Tang Clan. Some of his notable work with the Clan included the "Mystery of ChessBoxing," "M-E-T-H-O-D MAN" and Cappadonna's "Slang Editorial" videos that helped to establish the group's hardcore persona. Through his work with Wu-Tang, "Gee-Bee" also helmed the camera to create notable hit music video clips for: Ill & Al Skratch's "Where's My Homiez" Mystikal and Slikk The Shocker's "It Ain't My Fault" and Master P's "Hoody Hoo."

To view the trailer and screening updates: www.WUMOVIE.com.