The James DeMile Interview
Conducted By Paul Bax
Wing Chun Do has grown quite a bit over the last twenty years. How many instructors do you currently have under you?
James DeMile: Under me, very few, maybe 10. Most of the people who train to teach want to incorporate Wing Chun Do as only part of the programs they offer. They open training centers and offer a variety of services.
You recently moved from Seattle to Hawaii. How was the move and how has this affected your organization?
JD: The move was great. The cold weather in the Pacific Northwest affected the injuries to my neck and back, so the move to a warmer climate has been very beneficial. It has not really affected the organization since I had already shifted a lot of the responsibilities of the system to my senior instructor in Wing Chun Do, Sibock Rocco Ambrose, in Livonia, Michigan.
Ambrose is the heir to your art?
JD: Yes. He has taught for over ten years and has the most detailed understanding of the system as well as has given some very creative input to help the system grow.
At one time you were trying to put together a film called, "Bruce Lee: The Little Dragon." What happened with this project?
JD: Sad to say, I am still trying to have it produced. A lot of interest over the years, but when it comes to handing over the check? It looks like I will have to shoot it on video as a personal biography and sell it over the Internet.
Did you ever find anyone to play Bruce Lee?
JD: No... Found a lot of look-a-likes, but none that could act and talk like Bruce.
Amy Sanbo was Bruce Lee's first love in America. Can you describe the relationship they had? What is she doing now? Does she still live in Seattle? Has she had any comments on Lee's success after she knew him?