Legendary action star Jackie Chan, known for his death-defying stunts, recently admitted that even he thinks that he is “going to die” before performing dangerous sequences. During a masterclass at Switzerland’s Locarno Film Festival, the 71-year-old icon opened up about his career, early struggles, and the constant pressure that comes with being a stunt performer.
Jackie Chan talks about performing stunts during masterclass
At the festival, where Jackie Chan received the prestigious Pardo alla Carriera, the actor reflected on his decades-long journey in cinema. Despite his fearless on-screen persona, he confessed, “I’m no Superman. I am scared. Before a stunt, I go: ‘Am I going to die this time?’”
Chan, who began as a stuntman in Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury and Enter the Dragon, recalled how his career started. “I was lazy, naughty, I didn’t want to study—that’s why my father sent me to martial arts school,” he joked. “I liked fighting when I was young. Later, he asked: ‘Did you like the school?’ Yes, very much. I could kick the teacher, punch someone – whatever I wanted.”
So, how did he transition from training to being a film stuntman? “Movies are great – I can have my own lunchbox,” he shared. Chan’s passion for filmmaking pushed him to learn every aspect of production. “I’d even put on my own makeup—I wanted to show the director I’m good enough,” he said. Eventually, he took on directing duties, insisting that filmmakers should understand all elements of movie-making.
Reflecting on his journey to Hollywood, Jackie Chan revealed his struggles to break through in America before his breakthrough role in Rush Hour. The film, he believes, became a cultural bridge between East and West. Still, he maintains that the story comes first, with action designed to serve the script.
Now in his seventies, Chan continues to adapt, aspiring to be the “Asian Robert De Niro” and proving he’s more than just an action star. Accepting his career achievement award, he recalled a conversation with his father: “I’m 60. Can you still fight when you’re 60?” His answered now, saying, “I’m 71 and I still can fight.” (via Variety)
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