When we were in Shanghai location scouting, I realized how much I actually hate it. It is so boring because all you do is get in the car, drive hours to go to the location, get off for a few minutes to take pictures and get right back in the car. There's not much to say because for a few days, that is all we did - for my new movie, Twelve Zodiacs. If we were not driving around, we were in the hotel having hours and hours of meetings.
Hours and hours of meetings
Stanley Tong, one of the producers, Guan Hua and I are doing some exercises during the meeting.
Here I am explaining to everyone why my hair looks like this! During the filming of Shaolin Temple, every actor shaved their head bald! I wore a hat and my hair was still sticking out so in order to make my role more realistic, I put on the hat and shaved around it. now I look like this!
I decided to stretch too!
Actually, one interesting place that we went to was called Thames Town in Songjian, Shanghai. It is so empty and a lot of people take their Chinese wedding pictures there. Since it is named after the River Thames in England, all of the architecture makes you think that you are no longer in Shanghai. Traveling by car everyday, I told my staff how advanced China is and how much space there is in this country.
Look how wide the highway is! Every new town that I go to it seems like there's a new highway! Since everything is new in the new town - think they planned it that ten years later, it will be a packed community, just like Australia! Australia has been planning for the future for 100 years. Even in the US, or somewhere in Europe, the road is so big but it seems like it's too crowded. When is the new technology coming out? Traffic is an international problem!
Can anybody guess where this is?
Look what i found in Thames Town, Shanghai!
Okay, maybe I don't hate location scouting THAT much.
Every single night, the production people and I would have dinner together. After dinner, I realized that I have been sitting the whole day! So we decided to go play pool and ping pong. It's very important for everybody, no matter what age, to keep fit. Being healthy doesn't mean you are very skinny or have a lot of muscle. The most important thing is to eat right and exercise. I'm sorry I can't give you more information or show you the 1,000 pictures that I took in Shanghai - if I do, you don't need to watch the movie!
March 6th - Back to Beijing
I rushed back to Beijing on Saturday to get ready for the celebration of my Little Big Soldier's success. In the box office, we have made over 160 million RMB! It is the #1 in the box office this year, of course after avatar. Of course the budget is also different too! They spent 500 million US..I only spent....haha 3 million RMB.
I attended a "Little Big Soldier fan appreciation night" at my Jackie Chan International Movie Theatre. Steve Yoo, Lin Peng, Director Ding and some of my Lucky 7 were all there. The last time I saw them was two weeks ago at the Hong Kong premiere of Little Big Soldier, but I feel like I have not seen them in ages. They flew back from the Taiwan premiere just for this. I couldn't go because I was busy filming Shaolin Temple and location scouting.
Even though it was Director Ding's birthday, he gave ME a present of my name carved in stone. He did everything himself.
Here is the staff of the Jackie Chan International Movie Theatre.
The event was hosted by two of my fans, who did a fantastic job. When I got on stage, it was covered with canola flowers! If you have seen Little Big Soldier, you will understand why canola flowers are so important in the movie. Also, the main theme of the movie is "yuo cai hua", which is canola flowers! Soon after the event started, that's when Director Ding told me it was his birthday - and that tonight was the best birthday present for him. I decided to sing happy birthday to him in Chinese and English - I was so happy!
When we sang "yuo cai hua" for the audience - I couldn't believe my eyes! Every single person had a bunch of yuo cai hua in their hands and was waving it left and right, singing the song with us!
I gave away a lot of presents that night in a raffle drawing for my fans - but the most important present were the presents they gave to me! I really don't need presents because my fans and their continued support is good enough for me. But I want to show you some of the presents that I got that night!
Here are yuo cai hua flower seeds that I can plant. I wonder where I should plant them? Ha ha.
One of my fans spent 3 months cutting this out! I appreciate the time and effort he put into this. I hope that my joy in making movies will inspire more people to do creative things.
March 7th - Hanging out with Lionel Richie
Sunday was my first day off after many days of working, but I am never too tired to see a very special friend of mine, Lionel Richie! Many of my friends and I welcomed him by having dinner and listening to music afterwards. He even tweeted through my Twitter account!
I wanted to show my guests our beautiful culture in China, especially since it was their first time in Beijing.
I was happy to sing together with Lionel. Everybody had a wonderful time! Guess what we are singing?
March 8th - Flying to Japan
The next morning, I had a very early flight to Japan. I only got 4 hours of sleep because I woke up around 6am to go to the airport! It started snowing the night before, so I was laying in my bed wondering if the flights out of Beijing would be delayed. When we drove to the airport, it stopped snowing, so I knew we were going to be okay. We checked in, settled inside the airplane - and all of the sudden, it started snowing again! All the domestic flights were canceled. Would we make it to Japan on time? The flight attendants told me that it took 15 minutes to defrost each plane and our plane was the 19th one! After a few minutes, I fell asleep. By the time I woke up, the plane started moving. We were still in Beijing, on the runway! It was three hours later and we had to wait 30 more minutes until we could finally take flight.
Of course I took some pictures while we waited. I have been so busy lately that the only time I have to take pictures is inside the airplane! Look at all the snow in Beijing. Look at everyone defrosting the planes!
I was sound asleep that I even missed my meal. All of a sudden, someone was telling me to wake up. The flight attendants told me to open the window because there was a rare opportunity - to see the top of the Fuji Mountain! Wow, I quickly grabbed my camera and took as many pictures as I could, all the way until we landed. I want to share some of the pictures with you all.
As soon as we arrived in the airport, I instantly remembered how clean and organized Japan was. My staff picked me up from the airport and we got on a big charter bus. Why? Because we had to drive 3 hours to our location! I have been up since 6am and it was now around 4pm. When we got on the bus, there was nothing else to do - but sleep! We arrived in Matsumoto and the first thing we did was eat Korean BBQ for dinner.
Looks delicious doesn't it?
Since we slept the whole day on the plane and the bus, I thought I wouldn't be tired. As soon as we got to the hotel after dinner, I fell into the bed and fell right asleep.
March 9th - TV Show
I woke up bright and early to film a TV show. I looked out the window and I couldn't believe my eyes - MORE SNOW! Did I bring the snow from Beijing to Japan? No, I usually bring sunshine everywhere I go! Since I have to keep the TV show a secret, I will share pictures of the beautiful scenery instead.
I got back to the big charter bus around 5pm so we could all drive back to Tokyo together. It snowed the whole day and it was not stopping anytime soon. Driving from Tokyo to Matsumoto took 3 hours - but driving back took 5 hours! We stopped three times, mainly for food and bathroom breaks. The bus also slowed down at one point because there was a car accident. I didn't like being on the bus for so long, but safety is my #1 concern! Even though it was midnight when we got to the hotel, we all headed out to eat Ramen. I finished in less than 7 minutes and everybody else was still eating. So I decided to go to a pet shop next door. Most of the kittens and dogs were babies and everyone kept saying how cute they were. One dog kept barking and I told him I was sorry I couldn't take him home!
March 10th - Interview and shopping
After my photoshoot and interview, I was free for the rest of my trip. What did I decide to go do? Shopping of course! I love to look around for different things, especially unique things that I can put around my home and office.
My staff laughed at me because they say that everywhere I go, I am always cleaning and sweeping. I am just testing out the broom!
I saw this baby in the store who kept smiling! It was so cute!
I looked everywhere for toe socks too. I love toe socks!
I am always very impressed with how organized Japan is. Even on the escalators - everybody stands to one side to avoid confusion! One side is to stand, and the other side is to walk. This is very efficient.
Look at my assistant Victoria from New York messing everything up by standing on the wrong side! Haha actually I told her to stand there so I could take a picture and show you how messy it could be when one person is not following the rules!
That night, we went to my favorite restaurant to have their famous crabs. When my car was pulling up, I saw fans already standing there waiting for me! I said to myself, how did they know I was going to be here? When I got out the car to say hello, I asked them how they knew I was going to be there. They immediately said, "Twitter!" Wow! Technology is so amazing. My fans know that EVERY TIME I go to Japan, I have to go to this restaurant. After so many years, I still sat at the same table. That night I had over 30 guests!
March 11th - Back to Hong Kong
Before I leave any hotel room that I stay in, I make sure I leave it the way I find it. I think it's important to clean up after yourself because it makes the job a lot easier for the maid or the janitor. I checked everybody's rooms and guess what I found? A million used water bottles, still have full! I went around to ask everyone - but nobody claimed it. So of course, I took it outside to water the plants.
Your photos are so nice i love it ................. and good night ..........
Gizzel gerundio
posted on Tuesday, Mar 23, 2010
Hi Mr,Jackie Chan first I am the one of your fans i hope that you have more movie . I am so exited to watch your next ,movie . THAT"S ALL I LOVE YOU .............
Scott Brown
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Jackie Chan is one of mines bigger no 1 fan of all times. He makes good action and funny films. I got all this flims and every time I put his films on I laugh so much I nearly wet my pants. That why I like his films because they are action and full of comedy.
Scott Brown
A.P.Velmani
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Hi jackie chan my favort real hero
Waterlily
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Hi Big Brother ChengLong. Love to read your lastest news, seems you are very busy. I love to see you funny haircut, it makes me laugh. Why are you sitting on a man's lap and taking a photo of yourself? You are not a gay, are you? (ha ha). I like your films very much and really enjoy to watch them. I'd very much like to help you to do some charity work if you need any extra helping hands. My contact email address is lily.hemmings@ntlworld.com if you would like to get contact with me.
Kirill
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
I saw your last film "Little big soldier"
I liked it very much especially the song that your character sang. I hope your film will be amazing. By the way all your films are really good!)
rocky
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
The Koreans have loved you, but you haven't considered the korean's emotion
involving the recent movie on in Korea.
I'd like to ask you what your mind is on Korea. Where did you put your mind?
You don't know what's what yet?
I respect you all the time. I have grown up with your movies but one.
Donna
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
I just love the things you get up to Jackie. I feel like you are one of our family. X X X
NIKHIL
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Wow nice pics brother ......!! but urs movies are more better than this:)
IRakli
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Jackie Forever!!!
ashraf hmdan
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
i likel u jakye
mengcheng
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Hello,jackie!
I have seen the big little sodlier yesterday and it is fantastic!
I heared that the script you have spent on it for twenty years,is that true?because the story and the theme are really good!
look forward for your next movie!
Mohanraj ( Indi
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
All the photos are good. But i was attract by one photo. That evaluator photo because every one getting down in quene.. Its a superb picture
zeeshan beg bar
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
hello jackie chan i a big fan of you and your films
XimChe
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
OK i hope you finish your movie in time and injoye the stay in Japan you're my favorite actor and i hope you recive oscar awards, and i hope you'll come to my country. Best wishes Gëzim Selmani, Prishtina, Republic of Kosovo.
Tyanbo
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
so nice.I had saw JC just only one time in Shenzhen.at little big soldiers meeting.I want to say"take care ur healthing,JC".I will support u forever.
Guna
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
nice photos,and U all the time are so busy :)))
Faisal Mehmood
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
i am your bigest fan jackie am waching your all movies and i love u soooooo muchhhh you are a Nice Guy.....uuummmaaapphhaauuuaaa
LAURA
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
SUPER TUS FOTOS JACKIE
moyna
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
I love the photoes specialy the pictures of nature. And also the smile of little angle. The baby is really cute
Mike Harwood
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
Hi Jackie i had a hair cut a bit like that back in the 90is :)
Terri Busby
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
How very nice of you to share with us the beautiful Pictures from your trip.
Your fans do so appreciate you.
You are so talented in so many ways.
It makes us very happy that as busy as you are,you still take the time to share these day to day activities.
from your devoted fan Terri of Wilmington N.C. USA.
sabari giri
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
jackie you r my favor forever i am crazy about your effort full acting i am so interested to see you
sabari.giri8@gmail.com
luis bonilla
posted on Monday, Mar 22, 2010
jackie u r da best...i was trying to get tickets to see you when you were a guest on lopez 2nite but was unsuccessful :((....hopefully i'll have a chance of meeting you one day.im a huge fan...
Kahlil Piscopo
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Hi Jackie,
The photographs are great and the travelling dialogue a lot of fun to read and see inside a really nice important person showing their humanity......
Jasmine Lim
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Just catch you on charity show in Singapore Tong Ji night. My son Samuel Lau was a fanatic fan since he was a toddler. At age 5, he asked to buy your very comic collection. Very fortnight eagerly awaits your new copy of comic. Faithfully for 4 consecutive yrs. He knew and keep tracks on your news.
2 yrs back we went HK , he was so ignorant thinking he will get to see you there. He hope to meet you for his BD in 19 Nov.
90020009 Jasmine Lim
Gurbakshish
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Jackie we will love you for years and years !!!!!!
your lovely fan from india...
Mr. T
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Great Jackie. I hope Chines Zodiac will be a great epic movie!
FernanDoylet
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
This is so cool Jackie, muchas gracias!
wil
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
do you ever had a actor in your staff or employee whom you can not communicate with from lack of understanding or not been able to comunicate with you
parikshit
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Hi this is me again "parikshit" a big big verybig fan of Jackie Chan.Sorry i have not given my phone number because feared of someone may see it and misuse or may make some fake so please dont mind not even i have given my address.
Yes but i am from INDIA, Pune city.
please give me a mail address where i would send mail to Jackie Chan.
parikshit
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Hi i am big FAN of Jackie Chan and very very eager to meet him which i dont know is possible or not??? he is like a god or teacher for me his each and every activity i like to watch even this photos are fantastics, pleasant.Even i m a photographer and wish at-list would have 1 photograph and shake hands with Jackie Chan...
My name-Parikshit Kanhekar
Email-parikshitkanhekar@yahoo.co.in
Tracy Tay Wan N
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
i am tracy,
13 years old,
i am your no 1 fan^^
i would like to meet u one day,
i have bought a present 4 you...
i will give it 2 you,
when i have chance 2 meet you,i will give it 2 you...^^
my email is:
JC040897@gmail.com
Amber P.
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
I loved the photo of before the secret TV show. Tree's look so pretty when there covered in glittery snow like that.
A-Jay
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Respect for al your hard work Jackie...
Jonathan Abel
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
I had no idea that you had a twitter Jackie. That is sad. I hate technology moving so far ahead sometimes being old really gets the best out of you. What is that last picture about, drop something on the ground? I am also going to Shanghai next week for a business trip. I visit China often & it's a beautiful country indeed. Wish you all the best.
J. Abel
kiran
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
hi jackie im a grt fan of u nd very happy tht ur sharin evrythin with all ur fans...nd congrts for da movie success'LITTLE BIG SOLDIER'...I luv ya
rosane
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
i really enjoyed your photos especially of the trees. what a great eye for detail. very calming.
Enkhtaivan
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Hi Jackie! I am Mongolian. not inner. I like your movies. Those pictures really nice.
Wouter
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Can't wait for Twelve Zodiacs ( Armour of God 3 ) :D
Robyn
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Thank you Jackie for another great diary!
.:::ALI:::.
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
The comments and description under the picture makes the reader feel as if you are talking straight to them, you know like 1 on 1. But I always wonder if you ever look at your own website, and see what people say about you and your pictures.
Piyaletse
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Mr. Chan,
You are an example of how people should treat others and other people's stuff. So nice and clean and considerate of people and things around us. You make Chinese people feel proud about our own culture. May you continue to be successful in all your endeavors.
Phan Hai - Viet
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
I like the way you look at everything, it's funny and wise :).
By the way, I watched "Little big soldier" yesterday. That's nice, humorous as normal and also very meaningful.
Waiting for your next movies.
Majid jackie fa
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
i likes cleaning infact just i everyday decorate my room well it's a girl hobby but why not a boy can do this jackie your fan majid remember in twitter jackie_fan the one who wants to meet you
jennifer
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
mr Jackie chan i love you
ChiYung
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Yeah! finally armour of god 3 is coming soon! cant wait to watch it.. JC team, take your time to make a great movie after so many years! May God bless u all!
whats my name?
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
you are so hot i love you!!!!|! marry me please :)
MrBradDylan
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
Thanks Jackie, for giving us some insight on your day-to-day life.
Looks like you have a lot of fun. haha
angie hebner
posted on Sunday, Mar 21, 2010
where can we send birthday cards for Jackie's april 7th birthday?