Top Chinese film industry figures shared their insights on the future of the action genre as the Global Action Movie Roundtable convened in Harbin of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province on Monday.
Held on the sidelines of the 7th Jackie Chan International Action Film Week, the roundtable brought together filmmakers and actors and focused on topics such as how to carry forward the spirit of action films as well as discussing future career paths of action performers.
Inspired by the work of legendary martial arts star Jackie Chan, the first session explored how Chinese action cinema has bocome a global hallmark, with industry veterans sharing their insights.
"Whenever I face power or injustice, I throw myself in without hesitation - I stand up and fight against it. That's the spirit I see in Jackie Chan, and in our people. That's the chivalry, the spirit of Chinese action films," said Hong Kong director and action choreographer Stanley Tong, who was worked closely with Jackie Chan on numerous projects.
Chinese director Ding Sheng, who has also frequently collaborated with Jackie Chan, noted that even Hollywood films have drawn much influence from Chinese action cinema, including the 'John Wick' series starring Keanu Reeves.
"Even movies like 'John Wick' show a lot of Eastern influence. Everyone is learning from each other and merging styles. The challenge now is how to move forward together and create something new," said Ding.
The second session of the forum focused on innovation and the development of new talent. Guests including producer Wei Junzi, director Qin Pengfei, and some of the country's brightest up-and-coming young actors discussed choreography techniques, the challenges faced by performers, and the impact of AI technology on the industry.
Two emerging actors, including rising star Lin Qiunan, also performed some live action sequences on stage, showing off their impressive martial arts moves.
"As a Kung Fu actor, the most important principle is authentic fighting and convey that genuine feeling [to audiences]," said Lin.
The event also saw the debut of the official poster for the film week, a collaborative print by the 96-year-old Chao Mei, a founding figure of the 'Great Northern Wilderness' woodblock printmaking style and Professor Chao Fangfang of the Luxun Academy of Fine Arts, and conceptualized by cultural scholar Rong Hongjun.
The roundtable marked the opening of the film week which will see a host of other events, including an audience film festival, a program marking the 50th anniversary of the Jackie Chan Stunt Team, and the closing ceremony and awards event, are scheduled in the coming days.
Top film industry figures share insights at "Jackie Chan Action Film Week" roundtable
