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Jackie Chan is a towering figure in the world of action cinema, celebrated for his unique blend of martial arts expertise, humor, and magnetic charisma. His journey began in the 1970s in Hong Kong, where he started as a stuntman. During this period, he caught the eye of Lo Wei, a renowned film producer and director, who recognized Chan’s potential and aimed to position him as a successor to the legendary Bruce Lee. However, it was through films like “Drunken Master” and “Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow” that Chan truly demonstrated his exceptional talent. Aware that he couldn’t replace Bruce Lee, he carved his own path in the industry.
These early years served as the sturdy foundation for Jackie Chan’s iconic career, one that has undeniably become legendary. Let’s explore his impressive filmography by delving into the top 10 Jackie Chan movies, ranked by Rotten Tomatoes.
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Jackie Chan’s 10 Best Movies, Ranked by Rotten Tomatoes
Rumble in the Bronx (1995) – 80%
In the film “Rumble in the Bronx,” Jackie Chan is introduced as Keung, a Hong Kong police officer who travels to New York City for his uncle’s wedding. However, the joyous occasion takes a chaotic turn as Keung becomes embroiled in a fierce battle with a dangerous gang.
While Jackie Chan was renowned for performing his own stunts, he openly admitted to using a stunt double in this particular movie. Nevertheless, “Rumble in the Bronx” is not solely remarkable for its daring action sequences. Chan’s infectious good humor and charisma elevate the film, making it widely regarded as one of the top martial arts movies of the 1990s.
This movie played a pivotal role in solidifying Jackie Chan’s status as an international action sensation. It marked a significant milestone in his cinematic career, paving the way for his exponential popularity in Hollywood, thanks to his unique blend of martial arts, comedy, and a warm-hearted personality.
Shanghai Noon (2000) – 80%
Shanghai Noon stands out as a captivating fusion of Eastern and Wild West elements, featuring the iconic Jackie Chan as one of its leading actors. Alongside Owen Wilson, the film showcases their comical interactions, seamlessly blending action-packed sequences with a delightful on-screen chemistry as they embark on a mission to rescue a Chinese princess. Their partnership creates a dynamic that brings joy to every scene.
In his portrayal of Chon Wang, an imperial guard turned hero, Jackie Chan skillfully traverses the rugged terrain of the Wild West, utilizing a blend of martial arts expertise and charming clumsiness, a hallmark of his style that has endeared him to audiences worldwide. While the plot may not be groundbreaking in itself, Shanghai Noon serves as a testament to Chan’s unparalleled ability to effortlessly combine comedy and action, solidifying its status as a true classic in this genre.
Kung Fu Panda 2 (2011) – 84%
Given the extensive span of his career, it’s not surprising that he ventured into animated films, as exemplified by his involvement in DreamWorks’ Kung Fu Panda franchise. In the sequel, Jackie Chan returns to voice the character of Monkey, one of the Furious Five. However, this film boasts an ensemble of renowned stars, including Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Dustin Hoffman, and Gary Oldman.
The movie delves into the continued adventures of Po, now established as the Dragon Warrior, as he confronts a new adversary in Lord Shen, who seeks to conquer China using a formidable weapon. Kung Fu Panda 2 offers an engaging blend of action and humor, which aligns perfectly with Chan’s expertise. His voice acting transcends expectations, infusing a genuine authenticity into the character. With his charismatic delivery, Chan’s portrayal of Master Monkey becomes an indelible presence within the Kung Fu Panda universe.
Drunken Master II (1994) – 84%
Drunken Master II’s storyline revolves around Wong Fei Hung, portrayed by Jackie Chan, a martial arts expert known for his unique and unconventional fighting style, which is unleashed after consuming alcohol. The film is set in early 20th-century China, where the protagonist finds himself pitted against a British art trafficking syndicate.
As is typical in Jackie Chan’s films, Drunken Master II distinguishes itself not only through its remarkable fight sequences but also through the humor injected by its characters. The movie received critical acclaim and garnered a strong following among audiences, particularly in Hong Kong, where it enjoyed significant success. In 2000, it underwent a re-release in American theaters, retitled as The Legend of Drunken Master, thus reaching a wider audience and further cementing its place in the realm of action cinema. Today, it is regarded as one of Jackie Chan’s finest works, showcasing him as a martial arts legend.
Kung Fu Panda 3 (2016) – 87%
Kung Fu Panda 3 is a notable entry in the world of animation. In this installment, the movie explores how Po reconnects with his estranged father, portrayed by Bryan Cranston, and stumbles upon a community of bumbling yet endearing pandas who share his traits. Po takes it upon himself to train his newfound panda family in the art of martial arts so they can confront Kai, a formidable antagonist in this sequel.
The film garnered significant acclaim for its captivating storyline, vibrant animation, and humor. It particularly earned praise for the substantial character development, which added depth to Po’s personal journey. The voice performances, including Jackie Chan as Master Monkey, were well-received, but the standout was undeniably Jack Black in the role of Po. Kung Fu Panda 3 enjoyed immense commercial success, further cementing the franchise’s popularity.
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Kung Fu Panda (2008) – 87%
The original Kung Fu Panda is a must-include on any list because it introduced us to Po, a character who aspires to become a Kung Fu master while working in a noodle shop. His dream unexpectedly becomes a reality as he learns from his idols, The Furious Five, a group of martial artists tasked with protecting the Valley of Peace. Among these masters, Monkey, voiced by Jackie Chan, delivers a charismatic performance.
Kung Fu Panda offers more than just exciting fight sequences. Its endearing characters and the way it conveys a familiar message of perseverance and self-discovery are what make the film so enjoyable. These elements combined to make it a massive hit upon its release in 2008 and the reason why there’s another sequel on the horizon.
Crime Story (1993) – 93%
In the film “Crime Story,” the narrative centers around Detective Eddie Chan, portrayed by Jackie Chan. He is assigned a mission to rescue a kidnapped wealthy businessman, which takes him from Hong Kong to Taiwan. Along the way, he confronts perilous situations involving powerful criminals affiliated with the mafia. However, the plot takes a surprising turn when he discovers that one of the kidnappers is actually a member of the police force.
In contrast to his typical roles in action-comedy films, “Crime Story” explores a more serious and profound tone, providing Jackie Chan with an opportunity to showcase his acting prowess. He delivers a gripping and intense performance that underscores his versatility as an actor. While the film may lack the humor associated with his previous work, it compensates with its well-executed action sequences. The movie strikes a perfect balance between suspense and drama, earning critical acclaim.
Police Story (1985) – 93%
“Police Story” stands as one of Jackie Chan’s most iconic films, earning widespread acclaim from both critics and fans. In his own autobiography, Chan himself considers it to be his finest work. Notably, he not only stars in the movie but also co-directs it alongside Chen Chi-Hwa.
The film’s storyline centers on an audacious undercover mission aimed at capturing the notorious crime lord, Chu Tao. Jackie Chan portrays Chan Ka Kui (or Kevin Chan in some versions), a dedicated police inspector in Hong Kong, who is part of this operation that takes a disastrous turn when Chu Tao manages to escape. This sets in motion a relentless pursuit, showcasing the trademark action sequences and remarkable comedic elements that audiences have come to expect from Jackie Chan.
Supercop (1992) – 93%
“Supercop,” part of Jackie Chan’s impressive filmography, offers an exhilarating cinematic experience. In this high-octane movie, Jackie Chan reprises his iconic role as Chan Ka Kui, the dedicated Hong Kong police officer from the “Police Story” series. Directed by Stanley Tong, this installment also marked the debut of the Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh, who delivered an outstanding performance alongside Chan.
The plot revolves around Chan’s mission to infiltrate a powerful drug cartel led by Chaibat. To achieve this, he forms an unlikely partnership with Panther, a key henchman, orchestrating his escape from prison. As they journey to Hong Kong, Ka Kui’s goal is to expose the criminal organization.
As anticipated, “Supercop” boasts exceptional action sequences and awe-inspiring stunts, showcasing Jackie Chan’s mastery in the genre. The film’s humor resonated well with the audience, reaffirming Jackie Chan’s status as a true entertainer. Without a doubt, “Supercop” is a must-see for action cinema enthusiasts.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) – 96%
One of Jackie Chan’s most recent endeavors involves the animated project “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” a reboot of the popular ’90s animated TV series featuring an ensemble of Hollywood stars including John Cena, Seth Rogen, and Ice Cube. However, it’s Jackie Chan who truly shines in this production, lending his voice to the iconic character Splinter.
In this animated adaptation, the narrative shifts its focus from Splinter as a mentor to Splinter as a father figure. Chan’s performance brings a deep sense of humanity and warmth to the character, making Splinter feel exceptionally genuine and endearing. His portrayal injects a wealth of heart and soul into the character, to the extent that even Ice Cube believes Jackie Chan deserves an Oscar for his role.
The film delves into the complexities of a single father raising four teenage turtles, embarking on a heartwarming journey of fatherhood. All the while, Splinter continues to impart wisdom and life lessons, guiding the beloved turtles through their challenges. It’s safe to say that Chan’s Splinter is more than just a voice; he becomes a personality that resonates with and garners support from anyone who watches. These elements contribute to making “Mutant Mayhem” a cherished favorite among Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles fans.
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