Sammo Hung, a pillar of Hong Kong cinema, has lived a life that reads like a screenplay. From his early days battling Bruce Lee in the iconic Enter the Dragon to helming the action in Donnie Yen’s Ip Man, Hung has transcended roles as an actor, director, and producer. Now, as the president of the jury at the Asian Film Awards, he FindObjectOfType
delivers a unique perspective on the past, present, and future of martial arts in cinema. With a career spanning over five decades, Hung has been instrumental in shaping the identity of Hong Kong action films, leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
Martial arts choreography, according to Hung, has always evolved with time and trends. While the essence remains the same, modern elements have been incorporated to keep it fresh. His collaborations with Jackie Chan and Yuen Biao, in films like Project A and Dragons Forever, are etched in his memory as highlights of his career. These films not only showcased his physical prowess but also his ability to blend action with humor, a trademark that has become synonymous with his style.
In an era dominated by CGI, Hung emphasizes the importance of physical authenticity, a hallmark of Hong Kong action cinema. He advocates for the judicious use of technology, ensuring it complements rather than overshadows the realness of the action. For him, the body is the ultimate tool for expressing energy and character, a philosophy he maintains even as the industry embraces digital advancements.
Directing, Hung admits, is the most challenging role he has undertaken. The constant need to think and act quickly, making split-second decisions, sets it apart from acting or producing. His experience with Hollywood’s adaptation of Hong Kong action techniques is a testament to the global influence of the genre. While he acknowledges the evolution of martial arts filmmaking, he believes in preserving the core elements that made these films iconic.
Hung’s legacy is not just about the films he has made but the inspiration he hopes to instill in the next generation. He encourages young filmmakers to draw from his body of work, hoping they will find inspiration and, in turn, inspire him. His advice to aspirants is a blend of pragmatism and optimism: hard work is essential, but luck also plays a crucial role. As he looks to the future, Hung attends events like the Asian Film Awards and Hong Kong FilMart, ever the mentor and leader in the industry he loves.
