Spider-Man 4: Action in the Style of Jackie Chan?
The action legend pays a visit to the set of "Brand New Day"
By now, several details about the upcoming "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" are already known – from the appearance of the Punisher to the return of the Hulk. Now, we are getting new hints about what the film's action scenes might look like.
Just recently, none other than Jackie Chan visited the set of "Brand New Day" in London. The action legend revealed this in an interview with the Chinese portal hk01.com. The reason: His stunt crew is currently busy filming the new Spidey movie. The actor's visit is said to have surprised and delighted "Spider-Man" director Destin Daniel Cretton.
But what does this mean for "Brand New Day"? The choice of stunt crew could mean that we can expect action sequences in the style typical of Jackie Chan films. Cretton's only previous MCU movie, "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings", already showcased strong influences from Chinese action cinema. Could we possibly see an appearance by Shang-Chi in "Spider-Man 4"? Or even a cameo from Jackie Chan himself? We will find out by summer 2026 at the latest: "Brand New Day" is set to hit theaters on July 31, 2026.
Jackie Chan – The Action Legend
Few names are as synonymous with fast-paced fights, breathtaking stunts, and humorous entertainment as Jackie Chan. The actor, director, stuntman, and producer has shaped action cinema like no other over the decades. In addition to his popular film appearances, he is best known for his unmistakable style: a unique blend of martial arts, slapstick, self-irony, and tireless physical commitment. Jackie Chan's career began back in the 1970s, but he owes his global breakthrough to many movies that still enjoy cult status today.
Drunken Master
One of his first major successes came with the film "Drunken Master". In it, Chan plays Wong Fei-hung, a rebellious young martial artist who learns the "drunken style" of Kung Fu under an eccentric master. The movie combines impressive choreography with humorous elements and became a significant entry in martial arts cinema.
Rumble in the Bronx
This movie marked Jackie Chan's international breakthrough. As a friendly Kung Fu fighter from Hong Kong, he finds himself caught between rival street gangs in the Bronx. The film features classic Jackie Chan action with lots of improvisation, humorous fight scenes, and spectacular stunts. "Rumble in the Bronx" was a surprise hit in the U.S. and turned Chan into a sought-after star in Hollywood.
Rush Hour
With this buddy action comedy, Jackie Chan secured his place in the Western film industry. Alongside Chris Tucker, he plays the stoic Hong Kong cop Inspector Lee, who must solve a kidnapping case in Los Angeles with a fast-talking FBI agent. The movie combined Jackie Chan's stunts with Tucker's comedy, proving to be a successful mix. "Rush Hour" became a global hit and spawned two sequels.
Shanghai Noon
In this blend of Western, comedy, and martial arts, Chan plays a Chinese imperial guard who must team up with the luckless outlaw played by Owen Wilson in the Wild West. "Shanghai Noon" and its sequel showcase Jackie Chan's comedic talents and helped make him popular with family audiences as well. Both films stand out with clever fight scenes and a charming sense of humor.
Karate Kid
In this remake of the 1984 classic "The Karate Kid", Jackie Chan takes on a serious, mentor-like role for the first time – as Mr. Han, who teaches young Dre Parker (played by Jaden Smith) the art of Kung Fu. The movie was a global success and revealed a new, more subdued side of Chan, far removed from the slapstick humor of his earlier films. Most recently, in 2025, he appeared again in "Karate Kid: Legends".
The Foreigner
A rare venture into serious territory: In "The Foreigner", Jackie Chan portrays a grieving father who embarks on a personal vendetta against a terrorist group following the death of his daughter. The movie surprises with its dark tone and presents Chan as a serious, dramatic actor.
What Makes Jackie Chan's Films Stand Out?
Jackie Chan's movies are much more than just pure fight scenes. His trademark is the combination of martial arts, acrobatic precision, and comedy. He choreographs his fight scenes like dances, uses everyday objects as weapons, and never shies away from slapstick moments – even at the risk of injuring himself. In fact, Chan has broken bones multiple times during filming – a fact he takes with humor and often showcases in the outtakes at the end of many of his movies.
Additionally, he often forgoes stunt doubles and relies on real action instead of CGI – another reason why his scenes feel especially authentic and gripping. His movies usually tell simple stories, but with clear moral messages: courage, loyalty, helpfulness, and humor.
Jackie Chan in Pop Culture
Today, Jackie Chan is not just an action star, but a global icon. His films have shaped entire generations – both in Asia and the West. He is recognized for bridging the gap between Eastern martial arts cinema and Western mainstream culture. A few years ago, he received an honorary Oscar in recognition of his lifetime contributions.
