I have lived in Wellington for many years and know the stars of this movie indirectly (1-2 degrees of separation here) and the locations where the movie was shot. This is classic kiwi film-making - maximum fun, minimum budget and Tongan Ninja exemplifies this philosophy. Early Peter Jackson/Richard Taylor films have a similar look and feel.
I must point out, however, that the Charles Lum referenced in the Cast & Crew, playing character(s) Master Magasaki / Uncle Lee is NOT the Charles Lum who played the part. I know this because Charles, who passed away in 2021, was my father-in-law.
As Master Magasaki / Uncle Lee, Charles displays a mastery of the Asian mystic persona. This is despite the fact that his acting career commenced almost accidentally when he retired from working as a civil engineer and he had no formal training whatsoever.
Charles can also be seen in other classics such as Wendy Wu - Homecoming Warrior, Seven Periods with Mr. Gormsby, Insiders Guide to Happiness and Good for Nothing.
I must point out, however, that the Charles Lum referenced in the Cast & Crew, playing character(s) Master Magasaki / Uncle Lee is NOT the Charles Lum who played the part. I know this because Charles, who passed away in 2021, was my father-in-law.
As Master Magasaki / Uncle Lee, Charles displays a mastery of the Asian mystic persona. This is despite the fact that his acting career commenced almost accidentally when he retired from working as a civil engineer and he had no formal training whatsoever.
Charles can also be seen in other classics such as Wendy Wu - Homecoming Warrior, Seven Periods with Mr. Gormsby, Insiders Guide to Happiness and Good for Nothing.