But Van Dam remains optimistic.

"China opens wider [daily] to the outside world; so does the film industry," he said. "The challenge is [we need] more money to cover the costs of our production-at least 1 million yuan each year."

With an investment of 250,000 yuan from Yuan Yang Investment Group of Guangzhou Province, Van Dam is making another short play in collaboration with respected Chinese comic actress, Fang Qingzhuo.

"The boss of Yuan Yang Investment Group really knows kung fu, is polite to us and professional enough to make a wise decision," Van Dam said. Meanwhile, Van Dam is busy searching for more investors.

In spite of the scarcity of financial support, Van Dam and his Z Team are enthusiastic about the Chinese market, with 1.3 billion people to be entertained.

Years of practicing kung fu have left Van Dam with some diseases and pains, but his strong will and determined character propel him forward. For the past four years in Beijing, Van Dam and his Z Team have gained some measure of fame and at times are invited to participate in television commercials and, in some cases, TV series.

Still unsure about the market's future reaction to his short feature films, Van Dam is certain about another thing.

"We will make a better life in China," assured Van Dam.