Jackie Chan Honored at Locarno: A Tribute to a Lifetime of Action and Innovation

Actor Jackie Chan has been awarded the prestigious Pardo alla Carriera, recognizing his career achievements at the Locarno Film Festival 2025, as reported by Variety. In a revealing masterclass during the festival, Chan reflected on his early days, even reenacting his part from Bruce Lee's iconic film, 'Enter the Dragon'.

Despite playing a minor role in the classic film, Chan recalled an incident where Bruce Lee accidentally struck him with a stick during a scene. However, it didn't deter Chan, who famously completed the take. "I'm no Superman. I am scared. Before a stunt, I think: 'Am I going to die this time?'" he confessed.

Chan shared insights into his upbringing and how his affinity for martial arts began. "I was lazy and mischievous, which is why my father sent me to martial arts school," he recounted humorously. His start as a stuntman in films like Lee's 'Fist of Fury' eventually paved his path to acting, yet Chan always aspired to master filmmaking in its entirety.

Chan expressed his ambition: "I do everything myself. I advise filmmakers: 'Learning to direct isn't sufficient,'" emphasizing the importance of understanding every aspect of filmmaking. Chan's directorial ventures include 'Police Story' and 'The Fearless Hyena', among others.

Giona A. Nazzaro, the artistic director at Locarno, paid tribute to Chan, stating, "He reinvented, literally, what an action film is. There is before Jackie Chan and there's after." Reflecting on his conversation with his father at 60, Chan demonstrated resilience at 71, saying, "I still can fight."

Recently, Chan appeared in 'Karate Kid Legends', the latest addition to the 'Karate Kid' series, featuring Ben Wang in the lead role. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)