Jackie Chan: The Soon-To-Be Former Action Star
By Elmer W. Cagape
If you’re a big Jackie Chan fan, you’d probably be disappointed to know that he has landed his last punches and kicks before the camera as an action star.
Although he’d still probably appear on film in the future, his hallmark action stunts will, from now on, be conspicuously missing from the script. He is promoting his latest film called Chinese Zodiac, arguably his last action movie.
The 58-year old Chan, has over a hundred films under his belt as an actor, producer and director and with that mileage behind him, it’s not surprising that he decided to retire from such back-breaking roles. Chan is known to do his own act, usually doesn’t need a stunt double and admits the toll it has taken on his body.
“It hurts, it really hurts,” he said, flinching. “The shoulder, the ankle, it really hurts. You don’t know because I still look healthy.”
In Chinese Zodiac, Chan plays a fortune hunter trying to track down missing astrological antiques and spent seven years working on the movie – writing, producing, directing and co-ordinating fight scenes.
He looks at older Hollywood stars for inspiration and hopes to emulate the careers they follow.
“When I look at Hollywood, at Robert De Niro, he can do anything – comedy, drama,” Chan says. “Clint Eastwood – 60 to 70 years old, he can still move. I said yes, that’s my goal. Because an action star’s life is so short. An actor’s life is very long. I want to show audiences I can act.”
Wonderful news. Thank you Mr. Chan. Best wishes to you too.
Yes, thank you Mr. Chan for entertaining when others sought to make political points. Your films were always enjoyable and I applaud your.