There are few actors who can do it quite like Hong Kong action movies to his Hollywood superstardom, this talented performer has given the world many memorable performances.

While he has been known to foray into more serious roles, it is his body of work that mixes high-octane stunts with big laughs that are his calling cards. He has graced the screens of Hollywood productions, many cult classics from his native Hong Kong, and even provided his voice and attitude to some iconic animated characters. Though the eagerly-awaited new Karate Kid installment looks to be more on the serious side, here's hoping his innate humor will mix well with the laughs that Cobra Kai viewers have become accustomed to.

10 The Accidental Spy (2001)

Directed By Teddy Chan

01375990_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

The Accidental Spy
Release Date
January 18, 2001
Runtime
107 minutes
Director
Teddy Chan
  • Headshot Of Jackie Chan
    Buck Yuan
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Eric Tsang
    Many Liu
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Vivian Hsu
    Yong
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Wu Hsing-Guo
    Mr. Zen / Lee Sang-Zen

WHERE TO WATCH

Writers
Ivy Ho
Producers
Jackie Chan

A case of mistaken identity is a goldmine for comedy, and this action-and humor-packed film is a satisfying mix of all those components. International intrigue and some mysterious spies provide a lot of twists and turns for Buck Yuen, whose heroic antics while thwarting a robbery lead him on a journey from Korea to Turkey, as he utilizes his impressive martial arts skills to his own advantage.

Related
Jackie Chan's 10 Highest-Grossing Movies, Ranked

A beloved and influential staple of Hollywood and Hong Kong cinema, Jackie Chan boasts an array of commercially successful movies to his name.

It's never not fun seeing Chan in one of these roles. He is able to be so charming when he unwittingly finds himself in dangerous situations, and this is one of the more enjoyable of the "wrong place at the wrong time" films he has been in. It wasn't a huge hit with critics or at the box office, but it was a great first step into a genre he would soon become exclusively associated with.

9 The Medallion (2003)

Directed By Gordon Chan

01406965_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

The Medallion
Release Date
August 15, 2003
Runtime
89 minutes
Writers
Bey Logan, Gordon Chan, Bennett Davlin

WHERE TO WATCH

The Medallion is a 2003 action-comedy film featuring Jackie Chan as a Hong Kong detective who undergoes a transformation into an immortal warrior with superhuman powers after a fatal accident involving a mystical medallion.

Having established his niche of funny-yet-capable action hero, Jackie Chan steps into a more supernatural realm with this globe-trotting adventure. On the hunt for a mythical medallion, Chan's Interpol agent teams up with another inspector, played by a very dedicated Claire Forlani. The plot is not the most creative, but the film gave the actor a chance to stretch his muscles (both acting and actual) in a big Hollywood production.

Lee Evans and Julian Sands provide some additional dry British humor.

It may not have made the biggest splash at the box office, but it remains a cult classic in the genre of Jackie Chan movies, and is certainly worth a watch. It's interesting to see how he allows his natural skills to translate into the CGI-powered fantasy parts of the movie, making some scenes a visual feast for the eyes. Lee Evans and Julian Sands provide some additional dry British humor.

8 The Tuxedo (2002)

Directed By Kevin Donovan

01424722_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

The Tuxedo
Release Date
September 27, 2002
Runtime
98 minutes
Director
Kevin Donovan
  • Headshot Of Jackie Chan
    Jimmy Tong
  • Headshot Of Jennifer Love Hewitt In The Cafe Los Angeles Premiere
    Jennifer Love Hewitt
    Del Blaine

WHERE TO WATCH

The Tuxedo is a 2002 action-comedy film starring Jackie Chan as Jimmy Tong, a cabbie-turned-chauffeur who inadvertently steps into the world of espionage. When his millionaire employer is incapacitated, Jimmy dons a high-tech tuxedo that transforms him into an unwitting secret agent.

Writers
Michael J. Leeson

This slapstick action comedy leaned into the spy genre, heavily focusing on the exciting world of espionage. With a host of high-tech gadgets, including the titular tuxedo itself, Chan gets to showcase his skills using some fun tools of the spy trade. In his very own take on James Bond, the actor plays a character very close to his heart. Hapless and clumsy at the start, but ultimately heroic and brilliant in an endearing way.

Related
10 Best Martial Arts Comedies (That Don't Star Jackie Chan)

Jackie Chan is famous for his hilarious martial arts comedies - we rundown the top 10 martial arts comedies that don't star Jackie Chan.

He works really well with Jennifer Love Hewitt, who does her best to fulfill the glamorous side-kick role. Jackie Chan undoubtedly has enough charm for the both of them, and singlehandedly makes this goofy comedy an entertaining journey. Jason Isaacs and Debi Mazar have some scene-stealing moments of their own, and The Tuxedo mixes martial arts and humor well enough. It may not have swept critics off their feet, but with over $100 million at the global box office, it's got its fair share of fans.

7 Drunken Master II (1994)

Directed By Chia-Liang Liu & Jackie Chan

Drunken Master II - Poster

Your Rating

Drunken Master II
Release Date
February 3, 1994
Runtime
102 Minutes
Director
Chia-Liang Liu, Jackie Chan
  • Headshot Of Jackie Chan
    Wong Fei-hung
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Lung Ti
    Wong Kei-ying
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Anita Mui
    Ling
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Felix Wong
    Tsang

WHERE TO WATCH

Drunken Master II is a martial arts film directed by Lau Kar-leung and starring Jackie Chan as Wong Fei-hung. Set in early 20th century China, the story follows Wong Fei-hung as he employs his unique style of drunken boxing to combat corrupt officials and foreign agents smuggling valuable artifacts. The film is renowned for its intricate choreography and traditional kung fu elements.

Writers
Edward Tang, Man-Ming Tong, Kai-Chi Yuen, Rod Dean
Main Genre
Action

Part of his lengthy list of Hong Kong-produced films, and one of the many sequels he has participated in, this classic is a must-see for any self-respecting Jackie Chan fan. With some truly outstanding displays of martial arts, the fight sequences are some of the best he has ever performed. The story itself is unique and engaging, making it stand out from a lot of the run-of-the-mill Hollywood productions that don't have as much of an element of surprise.

The premise of a "drunken fighter" provides a lot of scope for comedic as well as genuine conflict, and all the sparring sessions were spectacular to watch as a viewer.

It feels very comforting seeing a young Chan so at ease, seeing as he was already such a huge star on his own turf at this point in time. The film has a score of 85% on Rotten Tomatoes, showcasing just how much of a quality film it is.

6 Police Story 3: Supercop (1992)

Directed By Stanley Tong

01365552_poster_w780.jpg

Your Rating

Police Story 3: Super Cop
Release Date
July 4, 1992
Runtime
95 minutes
Director
Stanley Tong
Writers
Edward Tang
Producers
Jackie Chan
  • Headshot Of Jackie Chan
    Kevin Chan Ka-Kui / Lin Fu-Sheng
  • Headshot Of Michelle Yeoh In The Gold House Hosts 2024 Inaugural Gold Gala at The Music Center.
    Captain Jessica Yang
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Maggie Cheung
    May
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Josephine Koo Mei-Wah
    Ching Wing-Xi

Police Story 3: Super Cop features Jackie Chan as a Hong Kong detective collaborating with Michelle Yeoh's character, a Chinese agent, to dismantle a notorious drug cartel. Released in 1992, the film blends action and comedy as the duo navigates dangerous missions to apprehend the drug lord.

In his third outing as Inspector Chan Ka-Kui, Jackie Chan teams up with Michelle Yeoh for an explosive array of death-defying stunts. The non-stop action keeps viewers immersed throughout the whole film, as the two action heroes jump out of helicopters, ride motorcycles onto moving trains, and showcase some impressive knowledge of firearms. In one of future-Oscar-winner Yeoh's early roles, she manages to steal the show next to the established actors on the screen.

This is one of Jackie Chan's most highly rated films, holding an impressive score of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. It has just the right amount of superb action for martial arts fans, and comedy for those who enjoy their high kicks with a side of laughter. Of course, it's important to not the first two installments in the franchise are definitely worth a watch too.

5 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

Directed By Jeff Rowe & Kyler Spears

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Poster

Your Rating

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem
Release Date
August 4, 2023
Runtime
100 Minutes
Director
Jeff Rowe
  • Headshot Of Nicolas Cantu
    Nicolas Cantu
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Micah Abbey

WHERE TO WATCH

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is an animated film in the enduring action-comedy franchise. Directed by Jeff Rowe, the movie follows the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles—Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael—alongside their mentor Splinter, as they confront new adversaries and navigate their teenage years. The film combines humor and action while maintaining the core themes of the beloved series.

Writers
Brendan O'Brien
Main Genre
Action
Studio
Paramount Animation, Nickelodeon Movies, Point Grey Pictures

With such a beloved IP as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, it would stand to reason to make sure the caliber of the cast reflected the level of love it has among its many fans. Casting Jackie Chan as the iconic mentor, Splinter, is nothing short of genius. He had played similar roles before, and having his distinctive voice bring one of the most inimitable movie rodents to life worked incredibly well.

With a welcome nod to the franchise's nostalgic past and a cast of some of the most exciting up-and-comers, this newest version of the beloved classic certainly lives up to is Rotten Tomatoes score of 95%.

The film was such a breath of fresh air, and even though his physical form is not the one performing the stunts, his unmistakable presence can be felt in every frame. With a welcome nod to the franchise's nostalgic past and a cast of some of the most exciting up-and-comers, this newest version of the beloved classic certainly lives up to is Rotten Tomatoes score of 95%. Chan is not the main star of the film, but his presence adds much-needed gravitas.

4 Kung Fu Panda (2008)

Directed By Mark Osborne & John Stevenson

Your Rating

Kung Fu Panda
Release Date
June 4, 2008
Runtime
95 minutes
Director
Mark Osborne, John Stevenson

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Kung Fu Panda is an animated martial arts comedy directed by Mark Osborne and John Stevenson. Set in ancient China, it follows Po, an overweight and clumsy panda voiced by Jack Black, who dreams of becoming a kung fu master. When an evil snow leopard named Tai Lung threatens the Valley of Peace, Po is unexpectedly chosen as the Dragon Warrior.

Writers
Jonathan Aibel, Glenn Berger
Main Genre
Animation

One of the highest-grossing films in Jackie Chan's illustrious career, this charming animated adventure kicked off a very beloved and lucrative franchise. With four films so far, the story of the slightly clumsy, but ultimately very brave and dedicated, Po has been a hit with cinema-goers of all ages. The cast is packed with huge stars, including Jack Black, Lucy Liu, and Dustin Hoffman, and it was only natural to feature one of the biggest martial arts stars as well.

Though Jackie Chan's role isn't the main focus of the film, as part of the Furious Five, he spurs on the hero to strive for greatness. His presence adds more legitimacy to the film, as viewers believe that his character has the knowledge and skills needed to display the fighting skills that he has. It's one of those perennial movies that's worth revisiting, and to be a part of such an impactful franchise is a great achievement, and the $600 million box office gross is impressive in itself.

3 Shanghai Noon (2000)

Directed By Tom Dey

Shanghai Noon - Poster

Your Rating

Shanghai Noon
Release Date
May 26, 2000
Runtime
110 Minutes
Director
Tom Dey
Writers
Miles Millar, Alfred Gough

Shanghai Noon is a 2000 action comedy film directed by Tom Dey. The story follows Chon Wang (Jackie Chan), an imperial guard from China who travels to the American Old West to rescue a kidnapped princess. Along the way, he partners with an outlaw named Roy O'Bannon (Owen Wilson) amidst cultural clashes and adventure. The film is noted for its blend of martial arts action and western motifs.

Main Genre
Action

Though one might not immediately think of mixing martial arts with the characteristics of a Western, the actual end result is very entertaining. Jackie Chan plays a character named Chon Wang, an obvious salute to John Wayne, who is tasked with rescuing a princess who was kidnapped and taken to the Wild West. As he teams up with Owen Wilson's wannabe gunslinger, hilarity ensues as they make their way through saloons and high noons.

The culture clash of East meets West provides for some highly-expected conflict and an impressive juxtaposition of fighting styles. Wilson and Chan are a very entertaining comedic duo, and the film made nearly $100 million at the box office worldwide. A respectable 80% Rotten Tomatoes score differentiates the film from some of his other Hollywood productions, and Shanghai Noon was successful enough to spawn a very decent sequel as well.

2 Police Story (1985)

Directed By Jackie Chan

MV5BMWJhZmI5ZWUtYjgyNy00NTk1LWIzODktYTE3NzQzNzJlOTgzXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTMxODk2OTU@._V1_

Your Rating

Police Story
Release Date
December 14, 1985
Runtime
100 Minutes
Director
Jackie Chan, Chi-Hwa Chen

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming
RENT
BUY

Police Story is a Hong Kong action film directed by and starring Jackie Chan as Kevin Chan Ka-Kui, a dedicated police officer who is framed for murder. The film showcases remarkable stunt work and martial arts sequences, depicting Kevin's relentless pursuit of justice against a drug lord. Released in 1985, Police Story underscores Chan's innovative approach to action filmmaking, combining high-octane sequences with comedic elements.

Writers
Jackie Chan, Edward Tang
Main Genre
Action

One of Jackie Chan's seminal films, this groundbreaking project saw him star, co-write and direct. With so many different tasks to be in charge of, it's ever more impressive that he was able to produce such a standout thriller that was heavy on the action, with a slightly lighter sprinkling of that classic Chan humor. The fight scenes are thrilling, and the plot touches on themes of revenge and retribution.

With drug lords, corruption, and murder at the center of the highly engaging plot, it was a hugely impactful piece of cinema, changing the face of the 1980s in many ways. It won the highest honor at the Hong Kong Film Awards and has a score of 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. With some of Chan's most spectacular stunts, this is a film that still holds up after all these years.

1 Rush Hour (1998)

Directed By Brett Ratner

Rush Hour Movie Poster

Your Rating

Rush Hour
Release Date
September 18, 1998
Runtime
98 minutes
Director
Brett Ratner

WHERE TO WATCH

Streaming

Rush Hour is an action/adventure comedy that stars Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker. When the F.B.I. becomes agitated over dedicated Hong Kong Inspector (Lee) being sent to Los Angeles to rescue the Chinese Consul's kidnapped daughter, he is forced to team up with a reckless and loudmouthed L.A.P.D.detective (Tucker) to keep him front interfering. Despite the differences between the two, they'll put them aside to prove themselves and save the girl while finding themselves caught in a notorious crime lord's crosshairs. 

Writers
Ross LaManna, Jim Kouf
Studio(s)
New Line Cinema
Distributor(s)
New Line Cinema

When thinking of Jackie Chan's most well-known and iconic action comedy films, Rush Hour will inevitably come to mind. Perhaps with a bigger focus on comedy, the action does not disappoint either. Chan and Chris Tucker are one of the most famous buddy cop duos, and the way they bounce off each other never fails to bring on a chuckle.

Jackie Chan shines in his impressive martial arts scenes, displaying amazing physicality, coordination, and power, scarcely letting up on the action. Tucker delivers one-liner after one-liner, scarcely letting the audience take a break from the laughs. With a $250 million box office haul, two sequels to date, and generations of fans, this is one of those Jackie Chan films that absolutely has to be seen. It introduced him to mainstream audiences, showcasing his skills to an unsuspecting, yet, completely willing group of new viewers.