Veteran action star Jackie Chan has declared that he will continue to perform his own stunts “until the day I retire, which is never.” The 71-year-old actor shared insights into his illustrious career and his latest project, Karate Kid: Legends, in an exclusive cover interview for Haute Living’s April/May issue.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jackie-chan-haute-living-tout-050725-65971c180c1c47d1b0864dc20fa927ce.jpg)
Chan, known for his daredevil stunts and martial arts prowess, expressed his unwavering commitment to doing his own stunts, stating, “I always do my own stunts. It’s who I am. That’s not changing until the day I retire, which is never!” With over six decades of stunt work under his belt, Chan emphasised that his stunt performances are now driven by muscle memory and sheer passion.
In the realm of action filmmaking, Chan acknowledged the evolution of technology and its impact on stunt work. Despite advancements in CGI and special effects, Chan believes that there is a certain authenticity missing in modern action sequences. He expressed concern that the use of technology may diminish the sense of danger and limit that once defined action films, making audiences desensitised to the thrill of real stunts.
Reflecting on his role in Karate Kid: Legends, Chan highlighted the film’s blend of action, friendship, and dedication. Reprising his character, Mr. Han, from the original Karate Kid movie, Chan shared the screen with Ralph Macchio’s Daniel LaRusso and newcomer Ben Wang as Li Fong. The film explores themes of camaraderie and resilience, showcasing the power of unity and hard work.
Beyond his on-screen persona, Chan offered advice to his younger self, stressing the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. He lamented not dedicating more time to mastering skills like English and playing the piano, believing that such abilities would have enhanced his craft as an actor and filmmaker. Chan’s wisdom reflects his lifelong pursuit of excellence and self-improvement.
As Karate Kid: Legends hits theatres, fans can expect a perfect blend of action-packed sequences and heartfelt moments. The film promises to captivate audiences with its storyline of friendship, perseverance, and the transformative power of teamwork. Chan’s dedication to his craft shines through in every scene, embodying the resilience and determination that have defined his legendary career.
In an industry where risk-taking is a common practice, Chan remains a beacon of authenticity and commitment to his craft. His pledge to continue performing his own stunts serves as a testament to his unwavering passion for filmmaking and storytelling. As audiences witness Chan’s remarkable feats on screen, they are reminded of his enduring legacy as a martial arts icon and cinematic trailblazer.