The Martial Arts History Museum will host a movie premiere for "The Match-Stick Flame 3: Red Mafia" on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The event includes a red carpet from 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and a screening from 4:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 201 N Brand Blvd B100 in Glendale, California. This premiere represents a significant cultural intersection, bringing martial arts cinema directly into an institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating martial arts history.
The film follows Detective Dalton, portrayed by Craig Bruss, a Navy Seal veteran with PTSD who becomes a bounty hunter. Dalton is tasked by DEA Agent Prasad, played by Vineeta Prasad, with taking down remaining Lunada Bay gang members in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. The plot intensifies as Dalton must hunt the Russian Mob, known as the "Red Mafia," to rescue Agent Prasad after her capture. He reconnects with allies including Chief Higgins, the Match Stick Mobsters, and Jake for the mission. The narrative explores themes of trauma and recovery, as Dalton seeks alternative medicine strategies with karate Sensei Darryl Vidal alongside traditional therapy.
Michael Matsuda, Museum Director, stated that the screening is a natural fit due to the film's action and mixed martial arts elements, featuring experienced actors and martial artists. Darryl Vidal, known for the "crane kick" in "The Karate Kid" and a role in "Cobra Kai Season 6," appears in the film. Matsuda expressed excitement about offering this special event in Glendale, emphasizing the museum's commitment to engaging the community with martial arts culture through cinematic experiences.
Tickets are available at the door for $12 for adults and $5 for kids aged 17 and under, with credit cards accepted. The museum is located at the corner of Brand and Wilson, next to Muay Thai School. Parking is available at the 4-story tower at 222 N. Orange Street, where the first 90 minutes are free. This accessibility ensures broad community participation, making martial arts and film more inclusive.
The film will soon be available on streaming services such as Tubi, Amazon, and YouTube. For immediate viewing, previous installments can be accessed via The Match-Stick Flame Tubi link and The Match-Stick Flame 2: Lunada Bay Tubi link. This premiere not only highlights an independent film but also underscores the evolving landscape of martial arts media, where museums play a pivotal role in bridging historical preservation with contemporary entertainment. By showcasing films that feature real martial artists, the event reinforces the authenticity and cultural significance of martial arts in modern storytelling, potentially inspiring new audiences to explore both the art form and its historical roots.
