Netflix is bringing a rare chapter of legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan’s history to screens with “The Disciple: A Wu-Tang Fable.”
Directed by Oscar-winning filmmaker Joanna Natasegara, the documentary explores the making of “Once Upon a Time in Shaolin.” The 31-track project challenged the traditional rules of hip-hop releases.
Only one physical copy of the album was produced. In 2015, that copy sold at auction for $2 million.
The buyer was controversial entrepreneur Martin Shkreli. He later faced a securities fraud conviction, adding another layer to the album’s already unusual story.
“The Disciple” follows Dutch-Moroccan rapper and producer Cilvaringz, born Tarik Azzougarh. His relationship with Wu-Tang Clan began as a teenage fan.
That passion eventually led him into the group’s inner circle. Cilvaringz later developed a close creative relationship with RZA, who became his mentor.
The documentary examines how their collaboration helped shape “Once Upon a Time in Shaolin.” It also explores the ideas surrounding scarcity, ownership and artistic control.
Netflix Acquires Hip-Hop Group Wu-Tang Clan’s Secret ‘Once Upon a Time in Shaolin’ Album, “The Disciple: A Wu-Tang Fable”
For Natasegara, the project represented a long-term passion. She spent five years bringing the story to the screen.
“For the last five years making this film has been a labour of love and discovery for me,” Natasegara said.
The filmmaker said her connection to Wu-Tang Clan began during her teenage years. The mystery surrounding the secret album eventually drew her deeper into the story.
“Initially I was inspired by a teenhood love of Wu-Tang,” she said. “A story about the secret album too intriguing to miss.”
RZA serves as an executive producer on the documentary. His involvement further connects the film to the creative force behind Wu-Tang’s legacy.
“The Disciple” also examines community, determination, creativity and innovation within hip-hop.
The documentary premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Netflix will release “The Disciple” on Oct. 16.
For Wu-Tang Clan, the film revisits an experiment that challenged how music could be created, owned and experienced.
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