Jackie Chan shows versatility in new movie

MANILA, Philippines - Jackie Chan marks up his latest starrer Little Big Soldier by showing his versatility on-cam and behind the scenes. In the new film, his 99th title, he takes other significant responsibilities apart from the lead role, acting as the movie’s executive producer and action director.

The project is Jackie’s concept he had cooked up for more than two decades, featuring a soldier and general whose fates collide as opponents of two states at war. Both warriors, however, become reluctant comrades as they are both being harassed by a cohort of refugees, along with an unlikely stalker — a ferocious bear.

Playing the role of a foot soldier in tale of warring states Liang and Wei, the star of buddy movies Rush Hour trilogy and Shanghai Noon is paired opposite Leehom Wang this time. Wang is an award-winning singer-songwriter in the Chinese music scene who appeared in Ang Lee’s Lust, Caution. Here, he is cast as state army general Prince of Wei, captured by fate by the “little big soldier” who hopes to use his supposed enemy to the Liang warlord in exchange for his freedom to go home.

What makes the situation more complicated is the general’s brother’s interest on grabbing the throne as emperor. Wen, portrayed by Korean pop idol Steve Woo, has grown up under the shadow of his brother who for him is the only obstacle for the title.

Another equally important character is that of a songstress dished out by first-timer Lin Peng who is known for winning the hearts of audiences with her performance at the opening of 2008 Olympics held in Beijing. She met Jackie at the backstage of the Summer Games’ closing ceremony, with the latter later inviting her to audition for the role.

Distributed by Viva International Pictures, Little Big Soldier opens May 19 in theaters nationwide.