Jackie Chan Reflects on 64-Year Career in ‘The Shadow’s Edge’: Actor First, Action Star Second!

Jackie Chan initially hesitated to portray yet another police character. However, the proposal from director Larry Yang to join him in “The Shadow’s Edge” captivated him, leading to their subsequent collaboration after the 2023 film “Ride On.”

“I was reluctant at first to take on another cop role since I’ve portrayed so many in the past,” Chan shared with The Bangin Beats. “But Larry presented the project in such an intriguing way that I was tempted to explore what new aspects I could deliver to the audience.”

In the crime thriller “The Shadow’s Edge,” currently leading at the China box office and featured in the Open Cinema category at the Busan International Film Festival, Chan takes on the role of the iconic retired detective Wong Tak-chung. He returns to duty to solve a massive theft at the famed Wynn Macau, where billions have been stolen under the watch of police and a sophisticated surveillance system named Sky Eye. Wong suspects that the criminal mastermind behind the heist is the notorious, yet long-disappeared, Fu Longsheng (played by Tony Leung Ka-fai).

Chan sees a reflection of his own career in the film’s juxtaposition of traditional detective work against modern surveillance technology. “This year marks 64 years of working sets for me. I’ve seen the evolution of cinema firsthand; it’s been a long, remarkable journey. Despite the rapid advancements in technology, the essence of action cinema — the human touch — remains indispensable,” says Chan.

The partnership with Yang, who made his mark with the closing film of BIFF 2015, “Mountain Cry,” flourishes on shared values of diligence and meticulousness. “Larry Yang is incredibly dedicated and serious about his craft. Despite his youth, his relentless drive and creativity are inspiring. I was eager to work with him again after he presented his new screenplay,” Chan reveals.

Chan is deeply aligned with Yang’s thorough and all-encompassing approach to filmmaking. “He’s not just focused on directing; he oversees every detail, attending to aspects even outside his direct responsibilities. His perfectionism is something I deeply respect, which is why I didn’t hesitate to join him for another project,” Chan adds.

Despite the physical toll from years of performing stunts, Chan emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of human performers in action films. “Actors are the cornerstone of action cinema. Technology might advance and assist in filmmaking, but it can never take the place of real stunt professionals,” he asserts.

Chan also speaks about evolving his artistic expression. “As I’ve aged and accumulated injuries, performing certain stunts has become challenging. I’m exploring different genres like family comedies and pure dramas to showcase other facets of my acting capabilities, hoping to surprise and move the audience,” he explains.

This adaptability is rooted in a career-long philosophy, recently celebrated at Locarno with a lifetime achievement award. “Starting as a child actor, I never anticipated the level of success I’ve achieved or the affection I’ve received from fans. I’ve always aimed for perfection in every aspect of filmmaking, which I believe is why audiences appreciate my work,” Chan reflects proudly.

His unwavering commitment to excellence has driven the evolution of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team, which has grown significantly since its inception. “After early successes with films like ‘Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow’ and ‘Drunken Master,’ the demand for experienced stunt performers led me to establish my own team. It started small but has now expanded to over 300 members across eight generations,” he elaborates.

Reflecting on his vast repertoire, Chan highlights “Miracles” as a significant project. “It was a challenge to my reputation as merely an action star. I invested heavily in its production, focusing on narrative and musical sequences rather than action. It remains a proud and defining moment in my career,” he says.

Chan continues to find the filmmaking process enthralling, with several ongoing projects. “I’m constantly refining scripts for perfection, even while juggling other film shoots. It’s a labor of love, and I’m hopeful about bringing these projects to completion,” he shares.

With a lineup of upcoming projects, Chan’s schedule remains busy. “I have several films in the pipeline, including a comedy action film in China and potential international projects. I’m genuinely excited about these ventures and sharing them with global audiences,” he reveals.

His advice for emerging action stars is to carve their unique paths. “The next generation should not simply imitate but instead forge their distinct styles and stories. With commitment and creativity, they are poised to redefine the action genre in their unique ways,” Chan advises.

“The Shadow’s Edge” also stars Zhang Zifeng as He Qiuguo, the daughter of Wong’s late partner, and Jun from the K-pop group Seventeen. The film is a joint production involving iQIYI Pictures, Shanghai Tao Piao Piao Movie & TV Culture Co., and Beijing Hairun Pictures Co., with Golden Network Asia Limited handling international sales.