The Best Jackie Chan Movies

Key Takeaways

Jackie Chan‘s career is marked by iconic movies blending comedy, epic fights, and heartfelt storytelling.
Chan shines in remakes like “The Karate Kid” and classic action films like “Supercop” with engaging performances.
From early hits like “Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow” to voice acting in “Kung Fu Panda,” Chan’s influence in cinema is undeniable.

Oh, my dear friends, let me tell you about these marvelous Jackie Chan films that have graced our screens! As a lifelong fan of this extraordinary man, I’ve had the pleasure of witnessing his incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming an international martial arts sensation.

It’s undeniable that Jackie Chan, even after many years since he first started, remains one of the most iconic martial arts actors, with an unwavering reputation. His unique blend of slapstick fighting and exceptional choreography has cemented him as a key figure in action movies. With more than 100 acting roles under his belt, his long career has given him the opportunity to refine martial arts conventions and exert an influence on cinema that no other actor has achieved.

In a distinctive blend of humor and action, Jackie Chan’s career is renowned for its exceptional films, leaving an indelible impact on the entertainment industry. Whether it’s his remarkable acting, thrilling fight sequences, side-splitting physical comedy, jaw-dropping set pieces, or heartfelt martial arts narratives, Jackie Chan has carved out a memorable path through cinematic history with stunts that are iconic in filmmaking. Here are some of his standout performances.

10 The Karate Kid

A Popular Remake Marked By Jackie Chan’s Role

Released: June 7, 2010
Director: Harald Zwart
Runtime: 140 minutes

Although the remake of “The Karate Kid” didn’t garner the same level of acclaim as the original movie, Jackie Chan still produced an engaging action flick alongside Jaden Smith. Just like in the iconic ’80s film, a secluded handyman mentors a novice in combat skills.

Under Chan’s guidance, this remake attracted its fair share of supporters. Interestingly, Jackie Chan is planning to reprise his role in an upcoming Karate Kid film, where he will collaborate with Ralph Macchio’s character to tutor a fresh protege from both original and remade casts.

9 Supercop

Incredible Action Sequences Featuring Jackie Chan And Michelle Yeoh

Released: July 4, 1992
Director: Stanley Tong
Runtime: 91 minutes

In the continuation of the “Police Story” series, the legendary Jackie Chan once again embodies the character of Chan Ka-Kui, joining forces with Interpol this time around to dismantle a dangerous crime syndicate. The fact that these two action legends, Jackie Chan and Michelle Yeoh, share the screen makes it a must-watch, although it may not quite match the greatness of its earlier installments.

In the movie, Jackie Chan not just played the main role, but he also took charge as the stunt choreographer and produced the film itself. The film featured thrilling high-speed chases that left critics like Quentin Tarantino awestruck due to its mind-blowing stunts.

8 Rush Hour

A Great 90s Buddy Cop Action-Packed Comedy

Released: September 18, 1998
Director: Brett Ratner
Runtime: 98 minutes

Jackie Chan initially found fame in Chinese cinema, but he gained equal international recognition through his work in Western films. Notably, he is widely recognized for his role as Chief Inspector Lee in the movie “Rush Hour,” partnered with Chris Tucker’s character, Detective James Carter.

The iconic 90s buddy cop movie, renowned for its flawless blend of action and humor that’s characteristic of Chan, has stood the test of time. Despite the fact that subsequent films in the series didn’t quite match the original’s success, Rush Hour not only thrived upon its release but also proved resilient over the years.

7 Project A

A Pirate Adventure In 19th Century Hong Kong

Released: December 22, 1983
Director: Jackie Chan and Sammo Kam-Bo Hung
Runtime: 95 minutes

In the role of Sergeant Dragon Ma, Jackie Chan teamed up with pirates’ bane, battling them alongside Sammo Hung, portraying a cunning thief, and Yuen Biao, who took on the captain’s role, in the iconic trio known as the Three Dragons. The movie, Project A, remains a classic for its thrilling stunts, with the scene atop the clock tower being particularly unforgettable.

In the ’80s, this high-energy action film marked a significant milestone in Jackie Chan’s career. Titled “Project A,” it was set against the backdrop of 19th century Hong Kong. The movie showcased not only the martial arts sequences that have become synonymous with Chan, but also his knack for comedy that has since made him famous.

6 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

A Masterful Animated Adaptation With A Fresh Perspective

Released: July 31, 2023
Director: Jeff Rowe and Kyler Spears
Runtime: 99 minutes

The latest “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” film generated a lot of excitement with its stunning visual effects, side-splitting humor, and a plot that truly embodies the turtle siblings’ spirit. Although it might differ from Chan’s iconic films, this animated production underscores the peak of his vocal acting career.

In a unique fashion, Jackie Chan embodies Master Splinter with both insightful wisdom and humor, a blend only he can perfect. Though he isn’t portraying one of the protagonist’s brothers, his character still resonates profoundly through memorable lines that add an exceptional depth to his performance in the film.

5 Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow

The Beginning Of Chan’s Career & A Classic Martial Arts Movie Trope

Released: March 1, 1978
Director: Woo-Ping Yuen
Runtime: 90 minutes

“The movie ‘Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow’ played a significant role in launching Jackie Chan’s career by enhancing the action and humor that are characteristic of kung fu films. In this film, Chan portrays an underdog orphan who faces bullying at his Kung Fu classes, bringing the character to life on screen.

Watching “Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow” is worthwhile as it showcases Chan creating his unique slapstick stunts that defined his career. Additionally, this movie played a significant role in launching the popular trope of the Kung Fu master training a tormented student in martial arts.

4 Drunken Master

A Successful, Influential Chinese Martial Arts Movie

Released: October 5, 1978
Director: Woo-Ping Yuen
Runtime: 111 minutes

Following the triumph of “Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow,” Jackie Chan took on another groundbreaking role in a film where he portrayed the trickster character, Wong Fei-hung. This character was mentored by a master skilled in the art of intoxicated martial arts. Much like its predecessor, the movie primarily explored the bond between Wong Fei-hung and his instructor, while introducing a unique fighting style that left a lasting impact on numerous other films.

The film, titled “Drunken Master,” gained immense popularity and played a significant role in promoting the martial art form known as Zui Quan (drunken boxing) within cinematography. As a result, it ranks among the top Chinese martial arts films of its era.

3 Kung Fu Panda

Chan Brings Humor & Kung Fu To An Iconic Animated Franchise

Released: June 1, 2008
Director: Mark Osborne and John Stevenson
Runtime: 92 minutes

Lately, Jackie Chan’s acting roles have predominantly been voiceovers, a shift solidified by his character within the Kung Fu Panda franchise. The initial film stands out for its vibrant animation that seamlessly combines humor with martial arts combat, two elements that are signature to Chan’s career.

In the animated series, Jackie Chan lends his voice to Master Monkey, a character who plays a crucial role in teaching Po martial arts, or Kung Fu. Though not the main character, Master Monkey is undoubtedly one of the most powerful figures within the franchise and an essential component of the show’s narrative.

2 Police Story

A Story With Heart And Intense Action

Released: December 14, 1985
Director: Jackie Chan and Chi-Hwa Chen
Runtime: 100 minutes

Many people find Police Story to be a favorite, and rightfully so. It features Jackie Chan in an indelible performance as “Kevin” Chan Ka-kui, a police officer. Beyond starring in the film, Jackie Chan was also instrumental in its creation, serving as both writer and director. The movie narrates the tale of a police officer who is falsely accused of murder following a botched undercover operation.

Apart from its captivating plotline, what truly distinguishes the movie is its construction using key action sequences, leading to awe-inspiring stunts and thrilling action. Featuring some of the most memorable set pieces in the actor’s portfolio, Police Story has left an indelible mark that ignited two highly acclaimed sequels.

1 The Legend of Drunken Master (Drunken Master II)

Surpassed The Original’s Success

Released: February 3, 1994
Director: Jackie Chan and Chia-Liang Liu
Runtime: 102 minutes

Following the triumph of the initial “Drunken Master” film, it’s challenging to conceive how the subsequent movie could equal or even surpass its success. Interestingly, though not strictly a sequel, “The Legend of Drunken Master” sees Jackie Chan returning as Wong Fe-hung in a tale set during the early 20th century.

16 years following the initial film, Drunken Master II was tasked with maintaining a strong reputation. It rose to the challenge, offering an engaging plot where Chan’s character confronts a gang intent on stealing Chinese artifacts abroad. The movie is particularly notable for showcasing Jackie Chan at his comedic best, displaying exceptional martial arts skills, charisma, daring stunts, and exhilarating action scenes.

2024-11-04 03:54