Jackie Chan embarks on an Indian adventure

The upcoming Sino-Indian coproduction Kung Fu Yoga features Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan and Indian actress Disha Patani; veteran Indian actor Sonu Sood and Hong Kong actor/singer Aarif Lee. [Photo provided to China Daily]

As for the commercial prospects of the film, Chinese filmmakers believe it will make a splash in both markets.

"Kung fu is a symbol of China, just like yoga is of India," says Stanley Tong, the Hong Kong director who helped make Chan famous in Hollywood.

The new film sees them teaming up again after Rumble in the Bronx, Police Story 4: First Strike and CZ12.

Speaking about the challenges faced in making the movie, Tong says: "It is a bit difficult to mix two cultures. I read a lot of ancient books, especially on cultural communication in the Tang Dynasty, which inspired me."

Giving details on the other aspects of the movie, Tong says the film features scenes shot in Iceland and Dubai. Most of Chan's action films offer visual feasts.

"My job was to make this (action film) more creative and different."

Also, using his personal connections with Dubai's royal family, Tong borrowed several animals, including the lion, from them, besides some very expensive sports cars.

For Chan, however, the movie is all in a day's work. "I love to be on a film set. It's my amusement park. I always have new ideas and realize my dreams when I am there," the 62-year-old says.

On the sets, Chan is said to always lead by example, whether doing stunts, choreography or just being environmentally aware.

Seeing Chan picking up discarded bottles and using paper towels sparingly on the sets was an eye-opener for the two Indian actresses.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Shen, founder of Shinework Media, one of the film's Chinese producers, says the movie will enhance links between Chinese and Indian filmmakers.

He says that the film will be released in around 500 cinemas in India.

Contact the writer at xufan@chinadaily.com.cn