Jackie Chan: Good Movies Are Nearly Impossible to Make Now!
Action legend Jackie Chan reveals why creating quality films in Hollywood is tougher than ever.
At the Locarno Film Festival on August 11, 2025, iconic action star Jackie Chan was honored with a career achievement award, recognizing his contributions to cinema through films like The Fearless Hyena (1979), Who Am I? (1998), and Police Story (1985). During an interactive session, the 71-year-old actor shared candid insights into the challenges facing modern filmmaking.
Chan expressed concern that the quality of films has declined, stating, "Old movies are better than today." He attributed this to a shift in Hollywood’s priorities, where business interests overshadow creative vision. "Right now, a lot of big studios, they’re not filmmakers, they’re business guys," Chan remarked, according to Variety. He highlighted the pressure to recover investments, noting that studios often prioritize budgets over storytelling, making it "very difficult to make a good movie now."
Renowned for performing his own daring stunts, Chan has also excelled as a director, stunt coordinator, producer, and author of two autobiographies. He emphasized his unique versatility, humorously noting that only he and fellow actor-martial artist Sammo Kam-Bo Hung possess the ability to handle multiple roles—writing, directing, acting, stunt coordinating, and editing—in Asian cinema.
Also Read: Jamie Lee Curtis Plans Hollywood Exit
Reflecting on his career, Chan acknowledged the physical toll of his stunt work, joking that he cannot continue such feats indefinitely. "It’s just so dangerous," he said, recalling how audiences often expect him to demonstrate punches and kicks during appearances. To adapt, Chan is now exploring new talents, particularly singing, as a creative outlet.
The Locarno Film Festival, where Chan shared these insights, began on August 6 and will conclude on August 16, 2025. His remarks highlight ongoing concerns about the state of Hollywood and the challenges of balancing artistry with commercial demands in modern cinema.
Also Read: Delhi's CIFF 2025 Celebrates India's Cinematic Tapestry
