1976: The year Jackie Chan chose his path

I love an anniversary and 50 years ago, in 1976, the industry made way for a new breed of star. Jackie Chan had appeared onscreen a number of times before, but it was New Fist of Fury that delivered his first significant lead. 

While being a huge opportunity for any rising talent, the film remains an important lesson for any artist finding their voice, and using the right vehicle, with the right timing. Despite director Lo Wei attempting to mould Chan as "the new Bruce Lee", that ceiling wasn't going to hold him. Bruce was dearly missed, but he was a one-off, and the industry and audience was changing. Fortunately, Chan would find success on his terms. 

In the years that followed, Chan would find his voice and forge his own path, refining his approach to dynamic, tightly woven action design and slapstick comedy, becoming the icon we know today. In fact, following his breakout success just a few years later, New Fist of Fury was heavily edited and re-released in 1980 to capitalise on his star power. The film has found more cult appeal since, but will always represent a stepping stone to something greater, and having the confidence to be your authentic self. 1976 was the year everything changed. He wouldn't be the new Bruce Lee, but he dared to be the first Jackie Chan. To me, that’s pretty big and worth remembering.