Thunderbolt (1995)
Thunderbolt (1995)
Thunderbolt (1995) is a high-octane action film starring Jackie Chan at the height of his powers, blending martial arts mayhem with fast-paced car racing. Directed by Gordon Chan, this Hong Kong production offers a unique mix of action genres, pitting Jackie against underground racing gangs and international criminals — all while showcasing his signature stunts.
Jackie Chan plays Chan Foh To, a skilled mechanic and race car driver who is reluctantly pulled into the world of illegal street racing after a deadly encounter with a ruthless racer named Cougar. When his family is kidnapped, Foh To must step up, not just as a fighter but as a racer, in a thrilling battle that combines fists and horsepower.
As expected from a Jackie Chan film, the fight scenes are top-tier — inventive, fast, and packed with energy. But Thunderbolt adds a twist with intense racing sequences that could rival Western racing films of the ’90s. From narrow alleys in Hong Kong to the high-speed tracks of Japan, the film never lets up on adrenaline.
Though the plot is fairly standard and some of the English dubbing in international releases is clunky, Thunderbolt makes up for it with raw stunt work, real crashes, and Chan’s undeniable charisma. The final race and fight scenes are particularly gripping, making this a must-watch for fans of both action cinema and racing flicks.
Verdict: Thunderbolt is an underrated Jackie Chan gem that shifts gears between martial arts and motorsports with exhilarating results. It’s not deep, but it’s a turbo-charged thrill ride.
