Jackie Chan, the man synonymous with kungfu, is famous for saying, "A successful movie makes people accept your culture." Given that so many outside of China are introduced to Chinese culture through kungfu films, Chan's words have a ring of truth. He spoke with ChinAfrica about his decades of work that propelled him to superstar status both at home and abroad, where scores of African youngsters, among others, idolize the martial arts actor.

At this stage of your career, what's important to you? What can audiences expect from you?

I keep telling my students that we should really do stunts ourselves rather than having a stuntman stand-in, because I like everything to be real for the audience. My characters on film are always nobodies, people we can easily find in real life. They feel pain and get scared, but it's them who do great things in the end. Also, I like to create something new.

In the future, I will still focus on movies. I hope to get more good scripts and give more opportunities to new actors. I might not be involved in as many dangerous fight sequences as before, but I will still play a role. Charity is another important part of my career I will continue to pursue.

How would you define the appeal of kungfu films in comparison to Western action movies?

The charm of Chinese kungfu comes from its Chinese cultural background. The moves and weapons, together with theories and values, make kungfu mysterious. Kungfu is not only about strengthening the body, but also about the virtues of martial arts, such as respect for teachers, fair competition and helping the weak. Western action movies have high technological production values, but Chinese kungfu movies require the real skills of real people. If an actor wants to be able to demonstrate kungfu well, he must practice for decades.

You see martial arts as a symbol of traditional Chinese culture. Do you think it's possible for traditional culture to survive in the modern world though martial arts promotion?

I think it's crucial for China to further promote its culture. We all have a dream to promote Chinese martial arts internationally, to create interest in and an understanding of Chinese kungfu. This is why I make kungfu movies. If people have access to Chinese culture during their childhoods, they will have an emotional connection to China when they grow up.

My movies are just carriers. As China's power grows, Chinese martial arts are reaching the corners of the world alongside other Chinese culture. It's my honor to be able to contribute to its promotion.

Some of your early films were shot in Africa. What's your impression of the continent?

Africa is an impressive place, full of nature, power and passion. I didn't know that I was famous in Africa until I was there shooting and children were showing me their Drunken Fist moves from the film Drunken Master. It was then that I realized my movies could influence so many people. Since then, I have paid attention to how I use my influence. For example, I try to use it to get more people involved in charity work.

African actors are now appearing in Chinese kungfu films. Do you have any advice for African actors who want to succeed in China?

Everyone, no matter the color of his skin, needs to be hardworking and diligent. As a kungfu actor, one should love kungfu and movies equally. Work on your fight techniques, make them look real and sharp to catch eyeballs. African actors in China have opportunities to play unique parts. It's an advantage, and they should make the most of it and learn more about Chinese movie making. Learning is what leads to success.