Jackie Chan Criticizes Modern Hollywood for Prioritizing Profits Over Quality Storytelling

August 11, 2025: Martial arts legend and international film star Jackie Chan is speaking out about the current state of Hollywood, and he’s not holding back.

During an appearance at the Locarno Film Festival, Chan expressed disappointment in the way major film studios operate today, arguing that the focus has shifted away from artistry and creativity toward purely financial gain.

“They’re Not Filmmakers, They’re Business Guys”

Chan, who has spent decades balancing blockbuster success with his signature blend of action and humor, shared his belief that Hollywood has lost its storytelling soul.

“They’re not filmmakers anymore — they’re business guys,” he said. “They just want to make money. They don’t care about the story or the craft.”

The Rush Hour star suggested that many modern Hollywood productions are built with the primary goal of box-office returns, often relying heavily on sequels, reboots, and visual effects rather than original, high-quality narratives.

The Problem With Profit-Driven Filmmaking

Chan explained that when executives prioritize profits above all else, movies risk becoming soulless products rather than artistic works. This, he believes, has led to a decline in the overall quality of big-budget films, with studios catering to market trends instead of nurturing fresh ideas.

A Call for Passion in Cinema

While Chan acknowledges the importance of profitability in the film industry, he urged studios to remember the heart of filmmaking: passion, creativity, and storytelling that resonates with audiences.

“Movies should inspire, entertain, and touch people’s hearts. That’s what makes them timeless,” he added.

Jackie Chan’s remarks come as a growing number of filmmakers and actors voice concerns about Hollywood’s increasing reliance on franchise formulas and big-budget spectacles, often at the expense of originality.