The Drunken Master (1978) ❤ – Transformation of Legendary Superstars Jackie Chan and Yuen Siu-tien Then and Now

The Drunken Master (1978) remains one of Jackie Chan’s most iconic films, launching him to international stardom. This martial arts classic, directed by Yuen Woo-ping, introduced audiences to Jackie Chan’s unique style, blending comedy, impressive fight choreography, and acrobatic stunts, forever changing the action movie landscape.

Jackie Chan – Then (1978)

In the film, Jackie Chan portrays Wong Fei-hung, a young and mischievous martial artist who learns the art of drunken boxing (Zui Quan) to defend his family and honor. At the time of filming, Jackie was 24 years old and already an accomplished stuntman and actor in the Hong Kong film industry. However, “The Drunken Master” truly marked his transition into the martial arts legend he’s known as today. His impeccable ability to seamlessly incorporate humor with brutal action earned him a unique place in cinema history.

• Signature Style: Chan showcased his improvised, fluid fight choreography and innovative stunts, particularly his famous drunken boxing technique. It was a significant departure from the more traditional martial arts films of the time, introducing a distinctive style of humor and intensity.

• Impact: The film helped solidify Chan as a household name and set the stage for his later works, blending physical comedy, martial arts, and acrobatic stunts in a way that was both entertaining and innovative.

Yuen Siu-tien – Then (1978)

Yuen Siu-tien plays Beggar So, a master of drunken boxing who becomes Wong Fei-hung’s mentor. Despite his older age (he was in his 50s during filming), Yuen Siu-tien brought incredible martial arts prowess and depth to his role, becoming a standout character alongside Jackie Chan.

• Role: Yuen Siu-tien’s performance as the eccentric, wise yet drunken master, combined with his stunning stunt work, created a powerful dynamic between his character and Jackie Chan’s. His portrayal influenced countless future martial arts films, cementing his place in martial arts cinema history.

• Impact: Yuen’s performance was a masterclass in discipline and grace, contributing to the movie’s charm and success. His character is now regarded as one of the most iconic masters in martial arts cinema.

Jackie Chan and Yuen Siu-tien – Now (2025)

Jackie Chan – Now (2025)

Today, Jackie Chan remains a global icon, with an illustrious career spanning over 60 years. He’s still active in film and television, though he now focuses more on producing and mentoring the next generation of martial artists.

• Legacy: Jackie’s impact on the action and martial arts genres is immeasurable. His influence is seen in Hollywood films, martial arts choreography, and even the stunt industry. He continues to inspire countless actors and stunt performers with his unique style.

• Physicality: Though in his 70s, Jackie still demonstrates impressive physical feats. However, in recent years, he has shifted toward action-comedy roles that emphasize his comedic talent and refined skills, while minimizing high-risk stunts due to his age and the toll that decades of action have taken on his body.

• Current Work: Jackie continues to star in films such as “Skiptrace”, “The Foreigner”, and is involved in producing projects like the “Kung Fu Panda” series, among others. His humanitarian work and philanthropy also keep him active in the public eye.

Yuen Siu-tien – Now (2025)

Sadly, Yuen Siu-tien passed away in 1996, but his legacy lives on through his iconic roles in Hong Kong cinema and his influence on martial arts films. His contributions to drunken boxing and martial arts choreography remain part of the DNA of modern action cinema.

• Legacy: Yuen’s legacy as a mentor and martial arts master is deeply ingrained in the culture of action films. His unique portrayal of Beggar So continues to inspire generations of martial arts enthusiasts.

• Influence: Even after his passing, Yuen’s work in films like “Drunken Master” is still celebrated, and his impact can be seen in both Hong Kong action films and the broader world of cinema. His method acting, mastery of martial arts, and character depth have inspired many actors and choreographers, including Jackie Chan.

The Drunken Master (1978) – A Legacy

In conclusion, The Drunken Master (1978) remains a pivotal film in the history of martial arts cinema. The dynamic between Jackie Chan and Yuen Siu-tien created a film that was both a laugh-out-loud comedy and a visceral martial arts spectacle, influencing many action films that followed.

As we reflect on Jackie Chan’s career, we see how far he has come from that mischievous young fighter to an international superstar, and Yuen Siu-tien’s powerful legacy as a martial arts master still resonates in modern cinema. The Drunken Master is not only a historical landmark for Jackie Chan’s career, but also a celebration of his mentor Yuen Siu-tien, whose influence continues to shape action films today.