Jackie Chan spent many years as a relatively obscure Hong Kong stuntman and actor; it was only after he took over his own films that he started on the path to superstardom. Realizing that nobody bought him as the next Bruc... more »e Lee, Chan shrugged off stoicism in favor of characters and situations that capitalized on his comedic abilities and everyman's charm. Portraying an average guy caught up in extraordinary situations allowed his fans to believe that they, too, could pull off some of Chan's incredible stunts--which, as the painful outtakes that run at the end of most of his films remind us, he largely performs himself. Unfortunately, Chan might have learned his lesson a little too well: now that he trusts his own instincts above all others, he seems to be loath to let others tell his story for him. On the 75-minute My Story, it's a fatal flaw: rather than providing what fans want--either non-stop action or a truly revealing look at Chan's life would be fulfilling--this documentary feels more like a late-night low-budget infomercial for those who don't really care about Chan. (It even includes the full trailer from Chan's first Hollywood starring effort, Rush Hour.) The only time Chan truly lets people into his life comes in My Story's final moments, when he talks about what his monomaniacal professional drive has cost him in terms of a personal life and what his life's goals truly are. Even that falls flat in the end, when Jackie, surrounded by children, tells of his one, true dream: "Peace." For a more professional look at Chan's life and career, try the A&E-produced Biography installment on him. --Randy Silver« less
"This documentary is worth watching, and don't miss watching both sides, as the english version is somewhat different from the chinese (or cantonese) one. There are also two different songs which are very funny to watch. From Jackie you learn to know of his youth, his films and his family. Please let us know much more!"
Excellent DVD documentary on the fabulous Jackie Chan
01/07/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This DVD release is a really great deal because both versions are on one disc. One side is English and the other side is Mandarin. The two versions are very similar but different with alternate interviews in Mandarin and English. Depending on which side you view first. A very interesting and informative documentary. Highly recommended for Jackie Chan fans and soon to be fans. Buy it now!"
Talented Jackie
Jackie | United Kingdom | 05/11/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Having just read Jackie Chans Book I felt I had to see the video. I was extremely surprised how talented he really is. The two songs featured on the DVD are both excellent and show what a lovely voice he has. It was nice to see the other side of the Action Man! It makes you smile just to watch him, as he seems such a happy & lovely man."
A must see for any Jackie Chan fan.
dyu@azstarnet.com | Tucson, Arizona, USA | 04/16/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"The DVD is great. The special features really enhance this DVD. The sound mix is good too. You can really get to know about Jackie Chan. There's a large section on some of his amazing stunts."
The autobiography of Jackie Chan on film
dyu@azstarnet.com | 03/03/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This documentary serves as a great companion to Jackie Chan's autobiographical book "I Am Jackie Chan." He talks about his early days in the Peking Opera School to his rescent American success "Rush Hour." There is also numerous clips from most of his movies, like his brief appearences in "Chinese Connection," scenes cut out of "Heart of Dragon" and an entire fight scene not seen in the American version of "Armour of God 2: Operation Condor." This is required viewing for any Jackie Chan fan and anyone else who appreciates great filmmaking."