Since its release in China on 16/8, "The Shadow's Edge" has consistently topped the daily box office, currently grossing over 700 million CNY (98 million USD). Market analysts predict the film will reach a total of approximately 1.2 billion CNY (167 million USD), Jackie Chan's best performance in 10 years.
On Douban, the film holds an 8.2/10 rating from 186,000 users, making it Chan's highest-rated film since "CZ12" (released in 2012). According to Xinhua, many film sites and viewers consider "The Shadow's Edge" a highlight of Chan's career after he turned 60, especially given his recent films' underperformance at the box office and lower ratings (below 5 on Douban, the largest Chinese film forum).
Wenweipo notes that while many Chinese films overuse special effects, "The Shadow's Edge" stands out with its "realistic and exciting" action sequences and elaborate outdoor shots, bringing audiences back to the "fiery passion of kung fu films."
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Tony Leung Ka-fai, Zhang Zifeng, and Jackie Chan (from left to right) on set. Photo: Mtime |
The film revolves around a case at the Macau police department where a group of tech geniuses hack into the security system, taunting the police and causing headaches for authorities. In this deadlock, former police officer and detective, Wong Duk-chung, is called back to confront these cunning youths.
Alongside Jackie Chan, the film stars veteran actor Tony Leung Ka-fai and young actors Zhang Zifeng, Xu Sha, Wen Junhui, and Zhu Zhengting. The interplay between the two generations of actors is praised for being both humorous and dramatic.
The action sequences, handled by the Jackie Chan Stunt Team, feature high jumps, skydiving, chases, gunfights, and hand-to-hand combat. Some scenes blend action and comedy, reminiscent of Chan's golden era. Tony Leung Ka-fai creates a climactic scene confronting 30 people in an orphanage corridor; his every move and expression vividly portrays the tragedy of a "fallen hero."
According to Sina, the market still craves martial arts and action films. "The Shadow's Edge" suggests a direction for the genre's development: a compelling story, high-quality fight choreography, creative storytelling, and a blend of actors from different generations.
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The battle of wits and strength between Jackie Chan and the younger actors is praised as exciting. Photo: Mtime |
Jackie Chan began his film career in 1962, initially as a stuntman. From the late 1970s, he gained recognition with films like "Drunken Master," "Project A," "Heart of Dragon," and the "Police Story" series. According to Xinhua, he is one of the few Chinese actors to achieve Hollywood success with hits like the "Rush Hour" series and "Rumble in the Bronx." Chan's films are critically acclaimed for their action, comedy, and realistic martial arts. In 2016, he received an Honorary Academy Award for his lifetime achievements.
On 9/8, Chan received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Locarno Film Festival (Switzerland). The jury recognized Chan's bridging of Eastern and Western cinema through his unique filmmaking style, making him an action film legend for many film enthusiasts.
Nhu Anh (according to Wenweipo)
