Jackie Chan Honored at the 78th Locarno Film Festival: A Celebration of a Cinematic Legend
On Saturday evening, the iconic Jackie Chan was celebrated with the prestigious Career Leopard award at the 78th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, receiving a warm and enthusiastic welcome from fans and festival-goers alike. The following morning, Chan captivated a large audience during a talk where he shared fascinating insights from his illustrious career, prompting fans to line up well in advance outside the cinema.
Reflecting on his early days, Chan reminisced about working as a young stuntman alongside legendary Bruce Lee in the classic film Fist of Fury. He recalled a memorable moment when Lee tapped him on the shoulder and praised his performance after several challenging takes. Chan humorously noted how he gained immense respect at a bowling alley after bringing Lee along, revealing that he was quite the bowler himself.
After Lee’s passing, Chan faced pressure to remake Fist of Fury, but he found the script and character to be unsuitable. "It just didn’t resonate with audiences," he explained. The filmmakers attempted to position him as the new Bruce Lee, but Chan asserted, "I am not Bruce Lee." He emphasized the importance of individuality in the industry, advising aspiring filmmakers to embrace change and evolution. "I learned to sing because during TV interviews, hosts always wanted me to perform fight sequences. Singing is easier," he quipped, eliciting laughter from the crowd.
As his career progressed, Chan aspired to be recognized as an "Asian Robert De Niro," expressing his desire to be seen as an actor capable of delivering powerful performances, rather than just a martial arts action star. "Only now are they saying, ‘Jackie is a good actor.’ That’s why you honored me with this award," he remarked.
Chan also acknowledged the generational shift in action films, stating that roles like his in the Karate Kid remake allowed him to pass the baton to the next generation of stars. "I had become a master," he shared, reflecting on his journey in the film industry. Despite his reputation for performing incredible stunts, Chan revealed his vulnerability, stating, "I’m not Superman. I feel scared every time I do a stunt."
During his talk, Chan highlighted a concerning trend in the film industry, where studios prioritize profits over artistry. "Today, it’s incredibly challenging to create a good movie," he lamented, emphasizing that many major studios focus more on business than on filmmaking.
At 71 years old, Chan remains a formidable presence in action cinema, proudly proclaiming, "I can still fight!" He celebrated 64 years in the industry, during which he has profoundly impacted both Eastern and Western cinema. To honor his contributions, Chan introduced two of his own films, Project A (1983) and Police Story (1985), where he served as both star and director.
Locarno’s artistic director, Giona A. Nazzaro, expressed his admiration for Chan, stating, "For a fan of Hong Kong cinema like me—having written three books on the subject—Jackie Chan is a dream come true." When announcing Chan as this year’s Career Leopard honoree, the festival organizers praised him as an "Asian megastar," a master filmmaker, and a Hollywood staple known for his action films that bridge cultural divides.
In a career that began under Master Yu Jim-Yuen at the China Drama Academy and included early work as a stuntman in A Touch of Zen, Chan has consistently reinvented martial arts cinema and influenced the global film landscape. His legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and the spirit of innovation in the world of cinema.
