Kaizen
Original Founder, Co - CEO, Creative Director, Actor, Film Screen Writer, Producer
A LIFE SHAPED BY THE WAY OF THE WARRIOR
KAIZEN is the original founder, Co-CEO, creator, writer, and producer behind Bushido Legacy Films. His creative vision is shaped by a lifelong dedication to martial arts, a passion for cinema, and the belief that compelling stories begin with character, purpose, and the human experience.
Introduced to martial arts at the age of four, KAIZEN began his formal training at five under Shihan Taka Hashi. Shihan is a Japanese title of respect for a senior martial arts teacher, often translated as “master instructor.” Under his guidance, KAIZEN was taught Bushido—the way of the warrior—and the principles of honor, discipline, focus, and respect.
His dedication developed into a distinguished martial arts career. A ninth-degree black belt, KAIZEN was inducted into the World Black Belt Hall of Fame in 2000 and earned four gold medals as a member of the USA International Team. His earlier biography also records 25 National and International Grand Championship titles and the Budo Japan Silver Cup Lifetime Achievement Award.
Years into his journey, KAIZEN was mentored by the late “Cary” Hiroyuki Tagawa, the Japanese-American actor, producer, screenwriter, and martial artist. Through their relationship, Tagawa introduced him to the principles of Zen Buddhism, including inner peace, mindfulness, and clarity of focus. This mentorship helped KAIZEN understand how the discipline of Bushido and the contemplative principles of Zen could work together, shaping his approach to life and deepening his creative perspective.
A graduate of the New York Film Academy, KAIZEN brings his martial arts experience and filmmaking education to his work as an actor, screenwriter, action choreographer, technical advisor, stunt coordinator, creator, and producer. His approach to cinema emphasizes authentic action, meaningful conflict, and characters whose choices carry emotional consequences.
The fusion of his martial arts foundation, creative imagination, and passion for storytelling gave rise to Bushido Legacy Films. As the original founder, KAIZEN established the company to develop original motion pictures and intellectual property with a commitment to strong storytelling, cinematic ambition, and creative excellence.
Together with his wife, Allison De La Cruz, co-founder, creative owner, and Co-CEO, he is building a production company dedicated to creating original entertainment with the potential to reach audiences across film, television, gaming, animation, and interactive
LAW ENFORCEMENT
POLICE CAPTAIN CHAPLAIN CISD #50
Senior Command Staff, C.P.C.A, , California
Senior Command Staff, T.P.C.A, , Texas
Post ID# B53 E36
P.O.S.T. Police Academy Graduate , California
Certification M.P.C.
