Afro Ninja is back with a vengeance

Article by: Star Tribune
Updated: August 5, 2008 - 8:23 AM

The Internet video sensation, a St. Paul native, is trying to turn misfortune into a positive thing by making a movie inspired by his much-viewed clip.

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Stuntman Mark Hicks, a Minnesota native, falls flat on his face in one of the Web’s most popular videos, “Afro Ninja.”

Photo: YouTube, Star Tribune

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The Afro Ninja is hoping to turn his funny flop into a big hit.

He became an Internet sensation after a clip surfaced online in 2004 showing him trying a back flip and pancaking his face on the floor.

The video's star wasn't some bumbling martial-arts wannabe, but professional stuntman Mark Hicks, who hails from St. Paul, where he graduated from Central High School before heading west 18 years ago. He was simply having a bad day during an audition.

The clip has formed the foundation of a low-budget film that Hicks has produced and starred in called "Afro Ninja: Destiny," about a guy who uses the unfortunate incident as inspiration to strive for better things. You can see the infamous clip and learn more about the new movie at afroninjathemovie.com.

Hicks, who has appeared in films such as "Transformers" and "Rush Hour 2," says he's in negotiations to get "Destiny" distributed, most likely on DVD.

"I've always been an optimist," he said, "and I believe opportunities come in many different forms. Hopefully, this is it."

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Mark Hicks, stuntman

First Place Productions, Star Tribune
See the clip, read more about the movie

Last update: Tuesday August 5, 2008 - 8:23 AM
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