“`html
Locarno film Festival Honors Jackie Chan with Lifetime Achievement Award – Action superstar Jackie Chan received a prestigious Lifetime Achievement award at the 76th Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland on August 11, 2023, recognizing his remarkable contribution to cinema. The award celebrates a career spanning over six decades, marked by innovative action choreography and global appeal.
Chan initially struggled to gain recognition, famously stating, “‘A single, clear hit! Think of Clint Eastwood!’ But I’m not Clint Eastwood!” This frustration fueled his return to Hong Kong, where he revolutionized action cinema with films like “Project A” (1983), filmed at the Sai Kung waterfront in Hong Kong, and “Police story” (1985), known for its groundbreaking stunt work and realistic fight sequences.These films garnered respect from American audiences, paving the way for his Hollywood breakthrough.
With Jaden Smith in «The Karate Kid».Bild: imago stock&people
the turning point came with “Rush Hour” (1998), where Chan insisted on choreographing the fight scenes himself, elevating the film’s action sequences. He acknowledged the impact, stating, “I choreographed the fight scenes myself. That made the film a little better.Not much better, but a little.” This success propelled him to international stardom, despite the physical toll. “Rush Hour” grossed over $244 million worldwide, solidifying chan’s box office power.
Reflecting on his longevity, Chan humorously noted feeling his age during the filming of “The karate Kid” (2010) alongside Jaden Smith, remarking, “I sat there, watching Jaden Smith train, fanning myself with air and thinking: Now I’m old.” This self-deprecating comment belies his continued energy and dedication. The film was primarily shot in Beijing, China, and Toronto, Canada.
Chan is known for his playful personality and frequently enough brings his stuffed panda mascots,”La” and “Zy” (representing “lazy”),on his travels. These plush companions have