Jackie Chan’s 7 Kung Fu Fantasy Movies, Ranked Worst To Best

When it comes to Jackie Chan fantasy films, the varying results can be just as interestingly unpredictable as the stunts the martial arts sensation is famous for. From animated epics to martial arts-packed mythological adventures, Chan has experimented with various projects over the years, from cult classics to box office brawlers. Whether he’s wielding legendary weapons, fighting CGI monsters, or physically performing stunts only Jackie Chan can do, the actor’s ventures into the fantastical realm often integrate traditional fighting methods with over-the-top Hollywood-esque storytelling.

Some moments deliver memorable action and imaginative worlds, while others stumble over a chaotic rug of plots as well as struggle to balance action and narrative. Chan’s journey is a whirlwind of quirky charm, daring action, and pure chaos. Whether soaring high with martial arts magic or falling short somewhere along the way, the greatest Kung Fu movie star of all time has never failed to at least provide new content, decade after decade.

You are watching: Jackie Chan’s 7 Kung Fu Fantasy Movies, Ranked Worst To Best

7

Iron Mask

(2019)

Iron Mask features an attention-grasping meetup between Jackie Chan and Arnold Schwarzenegger. The plot’s confusion stems from multiple rewrites, which is understandable but still extremely disappointing considering the film’s prestigious cast. Iron Mask never quite reaches the heights it hopes for, with an underachieving storyline and half-baked action sequences. Despite a star-studded cast, this film struggles to make an impact outside its niche appeal.

An over-reliance on spectacle over substance further dampens the impact of Iron Mask, with grand set pieces and mystical creatures portraying themselves as visually striking, yet ultimately failing to offer any substantial emotional or narrative depth required to make this film engaging. The lack of coherence in the plot leaves little room for character development, making it difficult for audiences to engage emotionally.

Related

Every Arnold Schwarzenegger Action Movie Ranked From Worst To Best

From the highs of The Terminator and Predator to the lows of Batman & Robin, here are Arnold Schwarzenegger’s action movies ranked from worst to best.

Posts

1

Overall, Iron Mask didn’t fully become the blockbuster it was intended to be. It couldn’t capitalize on Chan and Schwarzenegger, and while it was praised by some, the overuse of CGI made everything feel more artificial than exciting. Ultimately, the movie finds its place as a curiosity rather than a true fantasy classic, offering fans a teasing glimpse of what could have been.

Jackie Chan teamed up with Arnold Schwarzenegger for the first time since Around the World in 80 Days (2004) in this fantasy-adventure film. Their on-screen fight in the Tower of London is a highlight, combining Chan’s signature martial arts choreography with Schwarzenegger’s brute strength and comedic timing.

6

Fantasy Mission Force

(1983)

Jackie Chan stars alongside an eclectic cast of characters in Fantasy Mission Force, with the plot revolving around a cocky rescue mission that unsurprisingly spirals into madness. Abrupt pacing and bizarre storytelling make this film a 90s cult classic, though it’s hardly one of Chan’s more impressive works. However, an unpredictable energy and a low-budget charm have certainly earned Fantasy Mission Force a quirky nook in the hearts of Jackie Chan fans.

Fantasy Mission Force is a true product of its time, embracing the anything-goes approach typical of 1980s action films. The incoherent plot and eccentric style of humor might leave viewers confused, but these factors also contribute in whole to the film’s overall charm, making it an intriguing member of Chan’s extensive catalog.

While it’s far from the highest point in the King of Action Comedy’s career, Fantasy Mission Force has still managed to gain a small but robust following. Its reputation thrives on strange antics, outrageous action, and scenes that can only be described as so-bad-it’s-good. For those looking to dive into Jackie Chan’s more obscure works, this is a fun, yet baffling ride. Although a charming cult classic, Fantasy Mission Force is certainly not a prominent cinematic artifact.

See more : What Happened To Kyrie Barnes? Is Kyrie Barnes Dead?

Fantasy Mission Force is one of Jackie Chan’s quirkiest films, blending martial arts with absurd humor and a mishmash of genres. Despite being marketed as a Jackie Chan movie, he only plays a supporting role, with his scenes inserted to capitalize on his rising fame at the time.

5

The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang

(2019)

In The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang, Jackie Chan stars as a demon hunter caught between the worlds of the living and the supernatural. The film leans heavily into fantasy elements, blending martial arts with mystical creatures and elaborate set designs. Unfortunately, despite its visual flair, the story feels disjointed with a heavy reliance on special effects and a somewhat muddled narrative that just doesn’t quite hit its mark.

Related

Jackie Chan’s 10 Funniest Martial Arts Movies

From Police Story to Rush Hour, Jackie Chan has starred in some of the funniest martial arts films ever created over his decades-long career.

Posts

3

Although visually stunning in parts, The Knight of Shadows doesn’t manage to capture the broader attention of international audiences. It boasts a balanced blend of action, fantasy, and folklore, yet ultimately remains a bit under the radar. Aside from the few fleeting, enjoyable minutes, the film heavily struggles to find a lasting place in Chan’s legacy.

4

The Medallion

(2003)

In The Medallion, Jackie Chan plays a Hong Kong cop who is resurrected with extraordinary powers after a near-death experience. The film mixes action, humor, and a bit of fantasy, but despite a solid effort, it falls flat in execution. The plot is predictable, and once again, a reliance on special effects feels more distracting than exciting. While there’s no shortage of fight scenes, each moment doesn’t quite reach the level of creativity and excitement that Chan is known and loved for.

Despite a fun premise, The Medallion didn’t make much of an impact on audiences. It performed moderately at the box office and was met with mixed reviews. It’s a forgettable entry in Chan’s seemingly endless catalog, offering an overly formulaic mix of action and barely whimsical fantastical elements that struggle to stand out. The Medallion remains a niche curiosity, but it doesn’t have any lasting appeal to truly leave a lasting mark on Chan’s career.

3

The Myth

(2005)

In The Myth, Jackie Chan plays an archaeologist who uncovers ancient secrets about a long-lost love. This film combines action with historical fantasy elements, carefully blending the past and present together with visually appealing set design and impressive stunts. Despite this novelty, the film’s tone can still feel regrettably uneven at times, occasionally switching between serious adventure and lighthearted comedy.

Despite its mixed reception, The Myth is a staple Chan film for fans, especially for those who enjoy his fantasy films. It didn’t become a massive international hit, but it has a certain charm, particularly in its ambitious premise. It’s a fascinating look into Chan’s experimentation with more dramatic, mythological themes while still delivering high-flying action. Though not a major hit, The Myth maintains its place as an entertaining, ambitious adventure.

2

Monkey King: The Hero Is Back

(2015)

See more : Who are Sam Whitelock Parents? Meet Braeden Whitelock And Caroline Whitelock

Monkey King: The Hero Is Back is an animated hit that re-imagines the legendary journey of the Monkey King, a beloved figure in Chinese folklore. This vibrant, family-friendly adventure features stunning animations and a heartwarming tale of redemption. A strong emotional core and engaging action sequences have allowed The Hero Is Back to achieve significant success in China, where it unsurprisingly became one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time.

The Monkey King is usually portrayed as a rebellious trickster, but this film focuses more on his redemption arc. Portrayed as a relatable and vulnerable character, the King’s shift in personality offers a deeply emotional connection, especially for younger audiences who may be unfamiliar with traditional Chinese mythology. The film’s high-quality animation, which includes fluid fight sequences and visually striking landscapes, further elevates it into the fantasy world, making The Hero Is Back not just a retelling of an ancient tale, but a captivating re-imagining that brings a fresh sense of life to ancient mythology.

This animated gem struck a chord with audiences, making it a standout moment in Chan’s filmography despite him not playing the lead role. It not only introduced the story of the Monkey King to younger generations but also reinvigorated public interest in overall Chinese mythology. Both a movie and a video game, Monkey King: The Hero Is Back, stands out as one of Chan’s more universally praised entries, showcasing how the power of animation can bring fantasy to life in a fresh, exciting way.

1

The Forbidden Kingdom

(2008)

The Forbidden Kingdom is a dream collaboration for martial arts fans, bringing together Jackie Chan and Jet Li in a fantasy epic filled with showdowns, mystical elements, and a time-traveling plot. This movie earned a significant amount of attention for its star-studded cast and adventurous premise, making it one of the most popular films in Chan’s catalog.

The two most iconic martial artists in film history’s long-awaited on-screen collaboration has truly been a dream come true for fans, with each actor bringing their unique style to the table. Chan, known for his blend of martial arts and physical comedy, complements Li’s more traditional approach, creating a perfect balance of contrasting styles. Epic fight scenes offer a rare treat that not only delivers action but also plays with contrasting martial arts philosophies. This unique pairing of talents adds an unforgettable layer to the film’s charm.

With a blend of spectacular choreography and whimsical world-building, The Forbidden Kingdom remains tried-and-true as one of Chan’s most successful fantasy ventures. It didn’t just capitalize on the pairing of Chan and Li—it wholeheartedly captured the attention of international audiences, cementing it to be a fan-favorite in the martial arts fantasy genre.

Jackie Chan and Jet Li both performed a legendary fight together, even though their training and approaches were very different. Their collaboration was a significant highlight of the film, as it was the first time the two martial arts legends shared the screen in a fight sequence.

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Jackie Chan

Jackie Chan is a Hong Kong actor, martial artist, and filmmaker known for his acrobatic fighting style, comic timing, and innovative stunts. He gained international fame through films like Police Story and Rush Hour, blending action and humor, and is celebrated for his contributions to martial arts cinema.

Birthplace

Victoria Peak, British Hong Kong

Professions

Actor
, Martial Artist
, Stuntman
, Filmmaker
, Singer

Source: https://truongnguyenbinhkhiem.edu.vn
Category: Entertainment