Can Hong Kong Produce New Jackie Chan? Monday April 3 8:42 AM ET
"The Matrix" and "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" action director Yuen Wo-ping fears that Hong Kong may not be able to produce another Jackie Chan or Jet Li.
Yuen said Monday Hong Kongers tend to shy away from the hard work that martial arts training entails.
"More people learn martial arts in China. Hong Kong doesn't have another generation of action stars. Many people don't want to learn martial arts because it's too hard," Yuen said on the sidelines of a tribute to action choreographers organized by the Hong Kong International Film Festival.
Chan's action prowess came from training at a Peking Opera school while Li was a national martial arts champion in China.
Yuen named Chinese newcomer Wu Jing, who played a vicious killer in the recent "Sha Po Lang," as a promising talent.
He also praised Donnie Yen, who choreographed "Sha Po Lang."
"His fundamentals are really good," Yuen said. "He's willing to rack his brains in designing new moves."
Yuen, whose Hollywood credits also include "Kill Bill," said U.S. filmmakers were drawn to Hong Kong action style because they can't reproduce the same moves.
"Their action sequences aren't as diverse as ours," he said.
Yuen said he is currently working on two U.S. projects, one set in modern day and the other revolving around Snow White. He did not give further details.
Monday's tribute also honored Chan, "Hero" action director Ching Siu-tung, "Martial Law" star Sammo Hung and Lau Kar-leung.
Hung said he's gratified that action choreographers are getting more credit these days.
"Many years ago action choreographers weren't recognized for their blood and sweat. Gradually there were prizes recognizing action design. Gradually we have been comforted," he said.
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