Jackie Chan Disappointed in Hollywood Movies as He Shares Powerful Truth About Industry Changes
Jackie Chan disappointed in Hollywood movies that’s the sentiment the action legend expressed during a candid conversation at the Locarno event. The 71-year-old star, whose career has spanned both Asian cinema and blockbuster Hollywood hits, shared his concerns about the current state of filmmaking in America.
Chan, best known for his unique blend of martial arts and comedy, believes the golden days of Hollywood creativity have faded. “I think the old movies are better than today,” he said, adding that many big studios are run by “business guys” rather than true filmmakers. According to Chan, the focus is now on budgets and profits, with creativity often taking a back seat. “They invest 40 million and think, ‘How can I get it back?’ You can’t go over. It’s very difficult to make a good movie now.”
Jackie Chan Disappointed in Hollywood Movies But Still Keeps His Legacy Alive
Despite his criticism, Chan remains one of Hollywood’s most successful international stars. He last appeared in Karate Kid: Legends, the sixth installment of the beloved franchise. Reprising his role as Mr. Han, the Kung Fu master mentor, Chan once again showcased the warmth and discipline that have defined many of his performances.
However, this isn’t the first time Chan has felt disconnected from the Hollywood system. In the early 2000s, he seriously considered stepping away from American films altogether. The scripts being offered didn’t resonate with him, and he felt he couldn’t connect with the U.S. audience.
That changed with Rush Hour. “It was the last try. If it doesn’t succeed, then I finish,” Chan revealed. The buddy action comedy, pairing him with Chris Tucker, became a massive hit in 1998, not only launching a franchise but also cementing Chan’s place in American pop culture. “I think Rush Hour changed the culture,” he said, describing himself as “a cross-cultural bridge between the US and China.”
Rush Hour’s Success and the Anticipation for Part 4
The Rush Hour films – released in 1998, 2001, and 2006 followed Hong Kong Police Inspector Lee (Chan) and LAPD Detective James Carter (Tucker) as they tackled high-stakes cases in both Hong Kong and Los Angeles. The movies became box office sensations, blending Chan’s stunt-driven action with Tucker’s sharp comedic delivery.
After years of speculation, Rush Hour 4 is now in production. Both Chan and Tucker are set to reprise their roles, though original director Brett Ratner will not return following misconduct allegations. For Chan, the return to this franchise is bittersweet he’s excited about reuniting with Tucker but insists he’ll only do it if the script meets his standards. “I don’t want to do a rubbish script just because they want to make the movie,” he emphasized.
The Struggle of Creativity in Today’s Hollywood
Chan’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among filmmakers and actors who feel that Hollywood has become increasingly risk-averse. With major studios investing heavily in franchises, sequels, and reboots, original ideas often struggle to get greenlit.
For Chan, the magic of filmmaking comes from a balance of creativity, storytelling, and audience connection something he feels is slipping away in the current climate. His own career success came from taking risks, performing dangerous stunts, and telling stories that crossed cultural barriers.
Looking Ahead
While Jackie Chan disappointed in Hollywood movies may be the headline today, it doesn’t mean he’s stepping away from the industry entirely. His upcoming work on Rush Hour 4 could provide a nostalgic return to form for fans worldwide. And as one of cinema’s most enduring action stars, Chan’s voice carries weight especially when calling for a return to the kind of authentic, creative storytelling that made Hollywood a dream factory in the first place. Also Read: Dating News BTS Jhope: 5 Shocking Moments That Fuel Romance Buzz
For now, Chan continues to balance his work between Eastern and Western cinema, choosing projects that align with his values and passion. Whether or not Hollywood will return to the kind of filmmaking he admires remains to be seen, but his influence and legacy remain undeniable.
