Locarno, Switzerland – Action icon Jackie Chan received a Lifetime Achievement award at the 77th Locarno Film Festival on Sunday, reflecting on a 64-year career and expressing concerns about the modern film industry’s focus on profit over artistry. the award, known as the Career Leopard, recognizes Chan’s important contributions to cinema, bridging Eastern and Western filmmaking traditions.
chan, 71, acknowledged the inherent risks in his signature stunt work, stating, “I’m not a Superman. I am always scared.” He also highlighted a shift in Hollywood, observing, “Right now, a lot of big studios are not filmmakers, they are business guys,” and expressing difficulty in creating “a good movie” within the current landscape.
The festival celebrated Chan’s career with screenings of his 1983 film Project A and 1985’s Police Story, both of which he starred in and directed. These films exemplify his blend of martial arts, comedy, and innovative action choreography.
Locarno Artistic Director Giona A. Nazzaro praised Chan as a “dream come true” for Hong Kong cinema enthusiasts, noting his influence on both Asian and Hollywood filmmaking. Nazzaro, who has authored three books on Hong Kong cinema, described chan as a “key figure in contemporary Asian cinema” who “rewrote the rules of Hollywood cinema.”
Chan’s early career began at the china Drama Academy under Master Yu Jim-Yuen, where he trained in Peking Opera and began working as a stuntman at age 17, notably contributing to King Hu’s 1971 wuxia masterpiece, A Touch of Zen.This foundational experience shaped his distinctive action style.
Despite his disciplined approach to filmmaking, Chan revealed a youthful rebellious side, admitting he was “lazy and naughty” and “liked fighting when I was young.” He reaffirmed his continued physical capability, declaring during his Saturday awards acceptance speech, “I am 71. I still can fight.”
The Locarno Film Festival, held annually in the Swiss city of Locarno, is a prestigious event known for its focus on independant and art-house cinema. The Career Leopard award specifically honors individuals with a substantial and lasting impact on the world of film.
Chan’s work has consistently blended genres and cultural influences, achieving international success and paving the way for greater portrayal of asian talent in Hollywood. His films have grossed billions worldwide, and he remains a globally recognized figure.
