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Jackie Chan starred alongside Jaden Smith in the 2010 martial arts drama filmThe Karate Kid, a remake of the 1984 version. The movie was a smash hit from Sony and Columbia Pictures, earning $359 million against a budget of $40 million.
Will Smith’s production company, Overbrook Entertainment, also produced the movie. He was very much present in overseeing the project and supervising his son Jaden during the filming.
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Jackie Chan Thought He Was The Student InThe Karate Kid
During his appearance inLopez Tonight, Hong Kong action starJackie Chanshared how he landed the role of Mr. Han inJaden Smith’sThe Karate Kid. He shared:
“A few years ago, I was in a Japanese restaurant. I was sitting in the room. Somebody said, ‘Will is outside.’ [Will said] ‘We have to make a movie together,’ I said, ‘Yeah.’ One year later, he just called my office, ‘Jackie, I want you to do The Karate Kid.’ I said, ‘Okay, who’s the teacher?’”
Chan was clueless about his role in the movie, and he assumed he was the student instead of the kung fu teacher. He continued:
“I already forget how old I am. I still think I’m the kid. He said, ‘No, you’re the teacher. My son’s going to be the karate kid.”
The actor also revealed he sent one of his best stuntmen to look after and train Smith for three months in preparation for the movie. Even after the production has wrapped up, the young actor continues his training, as suggested by Chan so his skills won’t be put to waste. He further shared:
“In the movie, there’s no special effect, nothing. He does all of his own stunts. I do have a stunt double for him, but Will, his father, [says] ‘No, let him do it.’”
TheKing Richardactor was indeed very hands-on with his son’s training as well as the movie’s progress.
RELATED:“My neck twisted sharply, but I didn’t die”: Jackie Chan Was So Terrified of One Stunt He Delayed the Shooting As Long As He Could
Jackie Chan Was Grateful For Will Smith For The Success OfThe Karate Kid
In the same interview withLopez Tonight, Jackie Chan acknowledgedWill Smith’s efforts in bringing the film to the big screen. He admitted that the success of the franchise was all because of Smith. Chan stated:
“Will is great. I have never seen a producer like that. I really, really appreciate what he’s doing for the movie. If the movie’s successful, it’s because of him. He gave me more days, more budget, just more time.”
The Karate Kidwas not only a massive hit among viewers but also a victorious franchise. It revived the genre of martial arts films while showcasing the beauty of kung fu.
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Ariane Cruz
Senior Writer
Articles Published :3532
Ariane Cruz is a Senior Writer at FandomWire, majorly focusing on TV shows with over 3,000 articles published. Her love for pop culture and the creative arts fuels her passion to deliver engaging and informative stories. Her daily consumption of films, shows, and books keeps her energized for the day, along with her mission to serve as the bridge between fans and their favorite franchises.
