Jackie Chan Channels ‘Enter the Dragon’ in Locarno: Serenades Crowd, Contemplates Mortality!

At the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland, Jackie Chan recreated his performance from Bruce Lee’s renowned film “Enter the Dragon.”

In this legendary movie, Chan had a minor role. He has previously shared an anecdote about how Lee accidentally struck him with a stick during filming, yet he persevered and completed the scene.

“I’m certainly not Superman. I do get scared,” he confessed. “Every time I’m about to do a stunt, I wonder: ‘Is this the time I’m going to die?’”

While delivering a masterclass at the festival, Chan discussed his early days in the industry.

“It’s quite a tale,” he reflected. “I was a lazy, mischievous kid who hated studying, which led my father to enroll me in a martial arts school. I enjoyed it because when I was young, I loved to fight. When my father later inquired if I liked the school, I enthusiastically responded, ‘Yes, I loved that I could kick and punch anyone – including my teacher!’” he said with a laugh.

Chan initially worked as a stuntman in Lee’s “Fist of Fury” and later moved into acting, influenced by his early experiences on film sets.

“The magic of movies captivated me – I even got my own lunchbox,” he remarked.

His dynamic personality charmed the audience, occasionally asking them for assistance with recalling specific words or movie titles. He also shared poignant memories of his distant father, who used to send him audio recordings. “Listening to those tapes today would probably make me cry,” he admitted.

With ambition, Chan aspired to learn every aspect of filmmaking. “I did my own makeup to demonstrate to the director that I was capable,” he said. Over time, he even began directing his own films.

“I handle everything myself. Now, I advise filmmakers that just knowing how to direct is insufficient,” he stated.

“The audience isn’t aware of the behind-the-scenes difficulties like rain, budget cuts, or producer issues. They just expect a great film. That’s why I strive for perfection in every scene. I believe the films of the past were superior. Today, big studios are run by businessmen, not filmmakers. It’s challenging to produce quality films now,” he explained.

Later, Chan reenacted several of his renowned fight scenes, so caught up in the moment that he forgot about the microphone. However, his rise to fame in the U.S. took time.

“Back then, I was known as the ‘King of Asia.’ I thought I would conquer America too, so I went there and introduced myself as ‘Jackie Chan.’ But I was met with, ‘Jackie who? Are you another Bruce Lee?’ No one recognized me. They weren’t interested in my martial arts skills but wanted me to deliver a single punchline like Clint Eastwood in ‘Sudden Impact.’ But I’m not Clint Eastwood!” he shared.

“I decided to prove myself. That’s why I returned to Hong Kong to make ‘Police Story’. Sometimes, actions speak louder than words,” he added.

After facing numerous setbacks, his manager persuaded him to give it another shot.

“That film was ‘Rush Hour’. He explained I would play a Hong Kong police officer, so perfect English wasn’t necessary. That was crucial,” he chuckled. “I believe ‘Rush Hour’ altered the cultural landscape. My goal was to bridge cultures between China, the US, and now Switzerland.”

“The script is paramount,” he emphasized. “Only then do we figure out how to weave in the action sequences. Otherwise, it just doesn’t hold together. I’ve noticed in many American and Chinese films, characters start fighting and suddenly they’re flying. Why? Because there’s a lack of agreement among the crew. Are they supposed to be superheroes? Such action sequences frustrate me.”

“At least my films make sense,” he stated.

“I’m always eager to learn and adapt. Singing? It’s easier than fighting,” he joked, serenading the audience. “I aim to be a versatile actor, not just an action star.”

“The lifespan of an action star is limited. How many are still active? That’s why 15 years ago, I decided I wanted to be the Asian Robert De Niro,” he revealed.

“Now they recognize me as a capable actor, which is why I was honored with this award,” he added.

Chan was awarded the prestigious Pardo alla Carriera for his career achievements at Locarno on Saturday.

“Jackie Chan has completely redefined the action genre,” said Giona A. Nazzaro, the festival’s artistic director, describing him as a “genuine innovator.” “There’s a time before and after Jackie Chan in the world of action cinema.”

Upon accepting the award, Chan recalled a past conversation with his father, who had asked, “Can you still fight at 60?” To which Chan responded, “I wasn’t sure what to say then. But now at 71, I can still fight.”