Action star Jackie Chan, with over six decades of experience in the film industry, recently voiced his concerns about the current state of Hollywood filmmaking. During a Q&A session at the Locarno International Film Festival in Switzerland, Chan lamented the industry's increasing focus on financial returns over artistic quality.

Chan, who was honored with the Pardo alla Carriera award for career achievement at the festival, stated, "I think the old movies are better than today". He argued that major studios are now run by "business guys" who prioritize recouping investments, often at the expense of making a good movie. "They invest 40 million and think, 'How can I get it back?' And you can't go over. It's very difficult to make a good movie now," Chan explained.

Chan's comments reflect a broader discussion about the evolving landscape of Hollywood and the pressures faced by studios to generate profit in an increasingly competitive market. The rise of streaming services and the demand for blockbuster franchises have further intensified this pressure, potentially leading to a decline in original and creative filmmaking. Chan's perspective is that studios' need to quickly make their money back can lead to risk-averse decisions that ultimately hurt the quality of films.

The actor also reflected on his own career, sharing anecdotes about his early days in the industry, performing dangerous stunts, and learning various aspects of filmmaking. He humorously noted that he and Sammo Hung are the only two directors in Asia capable of handling writing, directing, acting, stunt coordinating, stunt fighting, and editing. Chan added, "And I'm better because I know how to sing,".

Chan revealed that he started learning to sing to diversify his talents, as he recognized the limitations of performing stunts indefinitely. "I cannot do this forever. It's just so dangerous," he said. He recounted how he would be constantly asked to demonstrate fighting techniques, which prompted him to explore singing as an alternative. Chan even joked about wanting to be the "Asian Robert De Niro," showcasing his ambition to evolve beyond action roles.

Furthermore, Chan admitted that he almost quit Hollywood due to uninspired scripts and a struggle to connect with American audiences. However, he decided to give it one last try, which resulted in the hit film "Rush Hour". "Rush Hour. It was the last try. If it doesn't succeed, then I finish," Chan said. "I think Rush Hour changed the culture".

Chan's remarks offer a critical perspective on the modern film industry, highlighting the challenges of balancing financial interests with artistic vision. As Hollywood continues to evolve, his words serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing quality and creativity in filmmaking.