By the mid-1990s, Jackie Chan had cultivated a significant fan base in the United States, largely due to the increased accessibility of his earlier films through home video releases. This eventually led to his breakthrough into mainstream Hollywood cinema with films like "Rumble in the Bronx" and "Rush Hour." Over time, Chan transitioned from kung fu comedies to more dramatic performances, such as his role in the 2010 remake of "The Karate Kid." His enduring appeal lies in his incredible fight choreography, daring stunts, and unique use of everyday objects as weapons.

In "Drunken Master," Jackie Chan embodies a fictionalized version of Wong Fei-Hung, a renowned Chinese martial artist and folk hero. Under the rigorous tutelage of Beggar So, also known as the Drunken Master for practicing an art called "Drunken Boxing," Fei-Hung initially resists the demanding training regimen. However, after suffering a humiliating defeat at the hands of Yim Tit-sam, a Taekwondo expert, he dedicates himself fully to mastering the martial art. Chan's ability to transform mundane items into effective weapons has become a hallmark of his style, often referred to as Found Object Foo.

Beyond his cinematic achievements, Chan's career is marked by numerous injuries, including broken fingers, ribs, cheekbones, hips, sternum, neck, and ankle. A particularly severe injury left a permanent hole in his skull. Despite these physical sacrifices, Chan continues to entertain audiences worldwide. As we celebrate his 71st birthday, it's fitting to honor his legacy by revisiting his top films spanning three decades.

Audiences return to classic Jackie Chan movies not for intricate plots or deep character studies but for the awe-inspiring combat sequences and breathtaking stunts that are interwoven with slapstick humor. Films like "The Fearless Hyena" showcase his innovative approach to martial arts, featuring memorable scenes such as a duel with chopsticks and emotional kung fu techniques where emotions play a pivotal role in unmasking opponents' vulnerabilities. Chan's influence extends beyond cinema, inspiring movements like parkour, further cementing his status as a global icon.