Hollywood's Digital Governance Crisis: Jackie Chan on Film Industry

Action star Jackie Chan delivered a critical analysis of Hollywood's current production protocols during his appearance at the Locarno Film Festival, highlighting systemic challenges in the industry's digital governance frameworks.

Industry Protocol Challenges

Chan, speaking after receiving a career achievement honor, emphasized how modern filmmaking has shifted from artistic excellence to algorithmic business metrics. "Right now, a lot of big studios, they're not filmmakers, they're business guys," he observed, highlighting how institutional protocols have transformed creative decision-making.

Automated Systems vs. Human Expertise

The 71-year-old veteran, known for classics like The Fearless Hyena (1979) and Police Story (1985), pointed out the increasing tension between automated production systems and traditional filmmaking expertise. His perspective aligns with growing concerns about algorithmic decision frameworks in creative industries.

Technical Innovation and Safety Protocols

Chan's unique position as both director and performer highlights the complex intersection of technical innovation and human expertise. He noted that in Asian cinema, only he and Sammo Kam-Bo Hung possess comprehensive capabilities across writing, directing, acting, stunt coordination, and editing - demonstrating the importance of integrated skill sets in modern production environments.

Future Adaptation Strategies

Acknowledging the evolution of entertainment protocols, Chan revealed his strategic pivot toward singing, indicating how veteran performers are adapting to changing industry demands. This transformation reflects broader shifts in digital content creation and distribution frameworks.

"I cannot do this forever (stunts). It's just so dangerous... I thought, What should I do? I should learn how to sing." - Jackie Chan