Local kickboxing champ in Hollywood blockbuster
By Angela Doyle
Kilkenny Top Pro Kickboxing coach Paul Cummins is about to take Hollywood by storm. The Kilkenny kickboxer stars in the newly released Hollywood blockbuster Strength and Honour alongside Hollywood actors such as Michael Madsen, Richard Chamberlain, Vinny Jones and Patrick Bergin.
The former professional world kickboxing champion was also a stunt double in the movie which is a new release in Xtra-Vision this week. The Kilkenny Advertiser caught up with Paul to find out how he got into the movie in the first place.
“With my kickboxing background I fitted the bill for a stunt role," he said. "I was to play the stunt double of a Traveller called ‘Chaser’ and when I completed my stunts I was also asked to be an extra by the director.” While Paul doesn’t have a speaking part in the movie he does get screen time. “You will see me very clearly for about 15 seconds full clear shot in my scene," he said. "I even get to fight Vinny Jones.”
Speaking of Vinny, Paul admitted that he wouln’t be a big fan of the popular actor
. “He’s not a friendly guy, not to extras or people who aren’t main actors," he said. "I found him unapproachable and rude.”
However, Paul had the utmost respect for Hollywood legend Michael Madsen.
“He’s an absolute gent, he gave me loads of advice and really took the time to chat to me and get to know me and that’s the difference.”
The movie was filmed in Cork three years ago but is only seeing its release day now and Paul reckons it’s worth seeing.
“I’d recommend renting it out for the night, it received great praise in the US and it also received several movie awards.”
While most people had to alter their appearance to fit his role, Paul laughs heartily that he didn’t need to change his appearance. "Most of the extras needed certain makeup and scars to fit the role but when they took one look at me the said I was grand as I was!”
While Paul hasn’t worked in another movie since Strength and Honour he hasn’t ruled out the possibility.
“I’d love to do more stunt work and even some acting," he said. "You never know, you could see me on the screens again the near future.”
To view the clip of the movie log onto the Top Pro gym facebook site or go rent it out at Extra Vision.
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