Jackie Chan is a cinematic icon renowned for his unforgettable action sequences and laugh-out-loud moments. Known worldwide for his unique blend of martial arts mastery, jaw-dropping stunts, and charming humor, Jackie Chan has captivated audiences for over five decades. This guide highlights the essential Jackie Chan movies and TV shows, offering insights into his extraordinary career and helping you discover where to stream these classics on leading platforms.
Jackie Chan: origins and rise to international fame
Born in Hong Kong in 1954, Jackie Chan began his journey at the China Drama Academy, where he rigorously trained in martial arts, acrobatics, and performance. Starting as a stuntman in iconic productions like Bruce Lee’s Fist of Fury and Enter the Dragon, Jackie quickly stood out for his daring stunts.
His breakthrough came with starring roles in Snake in the Eagle’s Shadow and Drunken Master, which established his signature style—a mix of martial arts, slapstick comedy, and creative choreography. Through the 1980s, Jackie directed and starred in hits like Police Story and Project A, pushing action filmmaking boundaries.
In the 1990s, Jackie’s success expanded globally with Rumble in the Bronx and Hollywood blockbusters like Rush Hour, bringing his unique persona to worldwide audiences. He continues to balance Eastern and Western projects, cementing his legacy as a global cinema icon.
Must-see Jackie Chan movies
When it comes to action cinema, few stars are as celebrated as Jackie Chan. His filmography is filled with standout performances, breathtaking stunts, and unforgettable comedic moments.
Drunken Master
Drunken Master is a landmark martial arts film that revolutionized the genre by seamlessly blending expert kung fu techniques with slapstick comedy, setting a new standard for martial arts cinema. Directed by the legendary Yuen Woo-ping, the story follows Wong Fei-hung, a mischievous and rebellious young man whose carefree attitude gets him into constant trouble. To discipline him, he is taken under the wing of the eccentric and strict Master Su Hua Chi, who teaches him the unique and unpredictable fighting style known as Drunken Boxing.
Jackie Chan’s performance is a dynamic combination of acrobatic fight choreography and perfectly timed humor, which introduces a playful tone previously uncommon in Asian martial arts films. Drunken Master remains a must-watch for fans of kung fu movies and is available to stream on Netflix.
Rush Hour 2
Rush Hour 2 is an action-packed comedy sequel that further solidified Jackie Chan’s reputation as an international star alongside Chris Tucker. In this film, Detectives Lee and Carter travel to Hong Kong for a vacation that quickly evolves into a thrilling crime investigation involving counterfeiting and dangerous criminals. The story balances high-stakes action with comedic cultural clashes, showcasing Jackie Chan’s martial arts expertise and natural charm.
It features memorable fight scenes, including inventive choreography in a Hong Kong karaoke bar and a daring sequence set in a Las Vegas casino. The chemistry between Chan and Tucker adds to the humor, making it a standout in the buddy cop genre.
This widely popular entry in the series is available on platforms such as TBS, TNT, Amazon Prime Video, and Netflix.
Vanguard
Directed by Stanley Tong, Vanguard brings Jackie Chan back to his roots with an adrenaline-fueled story featuring intense action sequences and ensemble teamwork.
Chan stars as Tang Huanting, the founder of Vanguard, an elite international security company assigned to protect a wealthy businessman and his daughter from a ruthless terrorist organization. Despite decades in the industry, Jackie demonstrates remarkable physicality, performing daring stunts and fight scenes that mix practical choreography with modern CGI effects for enhanced visual impact.
The storyline highlights the importance of teamwork, as Vanguard’s agents combine their skills to tackle threats with precision and humor. The title is available to stream on Tubi TV.
The Myth
The Myth is a compelling blend of action, historical adventure, and fantasy that showcases Jackie Chan’s versatility. The plot follows two parallel stories: Jackie plays dual roles as General Meng Yi, a loyal warrior in China’s Qin Dynasty, and Jack, a modern-day archaeologist plagued by vivid dreams of his past life.
The film alternates between past and present, weaving an emotional tale of love, loyalty, and the quest for immortality. General Meng Yi is tasked with escorting Princess Ok-Soo from Korea, but a pursuit for a mythical elixir takes him on a dangerous journey tied to the emperor’s mausoleum.
Chan’s action choreography shines with a mix of martial arts and humor, while the ambitious story explores themes of destiny and reincarnation. The Myth is available for streaming on History Vault.
Rob-B-Hood
Rob-B-Hood is a unique blend of action, comedy, and emotional drama that highlights an unconventional side of Jackie Chan. Directed by Benny Chan, it follows Thongs, a down-on-his-luck burglar who, along with two partners, kidnaps a baby during a heist gone wrong. Forced to care for the infant, Thongs experiences a transformation that combines slapstick comic situations with touching character development.
The story explores morality, responsibility, and unexpected affection as these unlikely caretakers bond with the child.
Jackie Chan’s signature physical comedy and inventive stunt work bring energy and humor to scenes involving daring chases and precarious escapes while he cares for the baby. It’s available to stream on Freevee, Pluto TV, Tubi, and VUDU Free.
New Police Story
New Police Story is a gripping reboot of the popular franchise, offering a darker, more mature take on Jackie Chan’s iconic role. Here, he stars as Inspector Chan Kwok-wing, a once-respected detective whose world collapses after his squad is brutally attacked by a young criminal gang.
Filled with guilt and seeking redemption, Chan embarks on a dangerous mission to confront his past, redeemed only with the help of a determined new partner.
The movie delves into deeper emotional and psychological themes, exploring trauma, loss, and resilience while maintaining the franchise’s trademark action sequences. Combat scenes are intense and realistic, showcasing some of Jackie’s most demanding choreography.
With impressive stunt work balanced by strong character development, New Police Story reinvigorated the series and demonstrated Jackie Chan’s ability to evolve as an actor. It is available for streaming on various platforms.
The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang
In The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang, Jackie Chan returns to fantasy adventure, portraying Pu Songling, a legendary demon hunter inspired by ancient Chinese folklore. Tasked with battling evil spirits crossing into the human world, Pu Songling partners with an awkward police officer and an eclectic team on a mission full of supernatural challenges and martial arts combat.
The production creatively blends action, humor, and impressive visual effects to bring the fantastical story to life. Chan’s performance offers a mix of wisdom, lightheartedness, and physical agility, anchoring the film’s tone.
The Knight of Shadows draws on traditional mythological themes while engaging modern audiences with fast-paced stunts and comedic moments characteristic of Jackie’s style. It is available on Amazon Prime Video, Pluto TV, Freevee, Tubi TV, and VIX.
Traces of a Dragon
Traces of a Dragon is a powerful documentary that offers an intimate exploration of Jackie Chan’s family history beyond his on-screen persona. Directed by Mabel Cheung, it traces the difficult journey of Jackie’s parents through the turmoil of 20th-century China, touching on themes of war, separation, migration, and resilience.
The documentary provides rare insight into the personal and cultural background influences that shaped Jackie Chan as both a person and a performer. Combining archival footage, interviews with family members, and careful storytelling, it reveals the profound effect of heritage on Jackie’s life and career decisions.
Traces of a Dragon stands out for its emotional depth and honesty, offering fans and newcomers alike a deeper understanding of the man behind the legend.
Shinjuku Incident
Shinjuku Incident represents a dramatic departure from Jackie Chan’s typical action-comedy roles, diving into a gritty crime thriller set in Tokyo’s dangerous underworld.
Jackie stars as Steelhead, a Chinese immigrant searching for his missing girlfriend who becomes entangled in violent gang conflicts and struggles for survival.
This feature emphasizes character-driven drama and moral ambiguity over martial arts, exploring themes of loyalty and the harsh realities faced by immigrants. Jackie delivers a powerful performance showcasing his dramatic range and vulnerability, shedding the humor that often characterizes his roles to portray a raw, emotional story.
With suspenseful storytelling and intense social commentary, Shinjuku Incident offers a compelling and thought-provoking addition to Chan’s diverse filmography. It is available on Tubi TV and VIX.
The Karate Kid
In this 2010 remake of the beloved martial arts classic, Jackie Chan stars as Mr. Han, a wise and disciplined kung fu mentor guiding young Dre Parker, played by Jaden Smith.
After moving to Beijing, Dre faces bullying and cultural challenges but finds strength and confidence through Mr. Han’s teachings. The story highlights kung fu as a path to personal growth, discipline, and respect rather than just physical fighting.
Jackie Chan’s heartfelt and nuanced portrayal adds depth to the mentor role, combining his martial arts expertise with emotional warmth. The production features beautifully choreographed training sequences and scenic Chinese landscapes that enhance Dre’s journey.
The Karate Kid embodies themes of perseverance and empathy, reflecting Jackie Chan’s legacy as a martial arts icon. Streaming now on Netflix.
Jackie Chan’s memorable TV shows
Chan’s career on television is as dynamic and entertaining as his film legacy, marked by innovative animated series, engaging reality shows, and memorable guest appearances.
Jackie Chan Adventures (2000–2005)
This much-loved animated series follows Jackie as an archaeologist and martial artist battling magical threats to protect ancient talismans.
Blending thrilling action, comedy, and Chinese mythology, the show features Jackie’s voice and live-action segments delivering lessons on perseverance and curiosity.
Spanning five seasons, it remains popular with both children and adults for its entertaining storytelling and positive messages.
Jackie Chan’s Fantasia (2009–2010)
Targeted mainly at younger viewers, this animated series features Jackie’s voice and likeness guiding adventurous characters through exciting escapades filled with educational themes.
Combining fantasy and learning, Fantasia maintains Jackie’s blend of humor, action, and positive lessons designed to engage and inspire children.
All New Jackie Chan Adventures (2017)
Reviving the charm of the original, this series introduces a new generation to Jackie’s animated hero through fresh adventures and moral stories.
As executive producer and star, Jackie ensures that the blend of action, humor, and life lessons continues, appealing to fans old and new with high-energy storytelling.
The Disciple (2008)
Also known as Disciple of the Dragon, this Chinese reality show features Jackie Chan as a mentor searching for the next action star.
Contestants undergo rigorous training in martial arts, acting, and stunt work under Jackie’s guidance.
The program offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look into the dedication and skills required for a successful career in action cinema, highlighting Jackie’s role as a teacher and industry icon.
Why Jackie Chan remains an action legend
Jackie Chan’s unique fusion of martial arts skill, inventive choreography, and humor has made him a cinematic legend. His vast body of work showcases his versatility and lasting influence.
Discover more about Jackie Chan’s iconic movies and shows and find where to stream them all on Filmelier, your definitive source for curated cinema content. Start your journey into cinematic action and laughter with Filmelier today!
