8th April 2023 – (Shanghai) Jackie Chan, the renowned action star, is busy promoting his latest film “Ride On” in mainland China. In the film, Chan portrays a martial arts master and recently spoke to the local media about the challenges and changes in the film industry, particularly in the action genre.
Chan expressed that the younger generation of audiences may not fully understand the profession of martial arts masters, which is why he wanted to make this film for them. He stated, “Actually, this film is also dedicated to all the action performers (stunt actors) around the world.”
Chan revealed that he has always aspired to become a martial arts master since he was a child, saying, “This is my dream!” He recalled a scene in the past where he had over a thousand retakes, but in the end, that particular shot was not used in the final film.
However, Chan mentioned that such situations do not happen nowadays when filming action scenes because of the advancement of technology and the support of skilled personnel. He said, “Nowadays, we are very lucky because we have many machines, talents, and technology to assist us when shooting action films.”
He admitted that even if an actor is highly skilled in martial arts, it would not be possible to film the extremely dangerous action scenes as before, due to various factors such as concerns from directors, action choreographers, and investors about the safety of the actors. Chan explained, “If you get injured, the entire production would come to a halt.”
Reflecting on his days in the 1970s to 1990s, Chan remembered the intense competition among martial arts actors of that time. He said, “I competed with Sammo Hung, Sammo Hung competed with Yuen Biao, Yuen Biao competed with me.”
However, despite his dedication to his craft, Chan acknowledged that his body has taken a toll over the years. He revealed, “I know that one day I will end up in a wheelchair or using crutches because even now, after receiving closed-door injections, my thighs still hurt from time to time, and my shoulders and waist as well. Maybe the effect of the medication is wearing off.” Chan mentioned that he has already received two rounds of injections and cannot have a third one due to concerns about the fragility of his bones. He said, “Because they say that if I have a third injection, my bones might become brittle, and I might need to undergo surgery. I’m very afraid of injections. But it’s okay, this is the fate of martial arts masters. If you watch the film “Ride On”, you will understand what I mean.”