Promotional material for A Legend Photo: Courtesy of Maoyan

The hashtag "the box office performance of films featuring legendary Jackie Chan has been less than stellar" trended on China's X-like social media platform Sina Weibo on Tuesday. The summer release of A Legend and 2023's Ride On are prime examples of this trend. 

While some netizens may attribute this to the fading appeal of the aging action star, it's crucial to consider the broader factors at play. 

The success of a film, after all, hinges not solely on the charisma of its lead actor but on the narrative it weaves. 

This perspective is particularly relevant as we examine the career trajectory of a veteran like Jackie Chan.

Firstly, it's undeniable that Jackie Chan's star power has been a significant draw for audiences globally. 

His unique blend of martial arts prowess, comedic timing, and daredevil stunts has entertained millions. 

However, the film industry is a fickle beast, and tastes change rapidly. 

The box-office receipts of Ride On suggest that the public's appetite for the kind of action-packed, light-hearted fare that Chan has traditionally delivered may be waning. 

This shift in audience preference is not unique to Chan; it's a phenomenon affecting the entire film landscape. 

The declining box-office performance of the Mission Impossible series starring Tom Cruise in the Chinese mainland is also one example.

The crux of the issue lies in the storytelling. A compelling narrative is the heartbeat of any film, and without it, even the most charismatic of actors can struggle to draw audiences. 

In the case of Ride On, the stories may not have resonated as deeply with viewers as expected. Perhaps the plot was too predictable, or the characters lacked depth. 

Whatever the reason, the narrative shortcomings overshadowed the undeniable talent of Chan in the market.

Moreover, it's essential to recognize that Chan is entering his 70s. 

Age is a natural progression that every actor must confront, and it's unreasonable to expect anyone to always perform the physically demanding roles as they did in their prime. 

The audience should be more understanding and appreciative of the contributions he has made to the industry over the decades. 

His ability to transition and adapt, much like other martial arts actors in Hollywood, should be celebrated.

In Hollywood, the transformation of action stars is a well-trodden path. 

Actors like Sylvester Stallone have moved from the high-octane Rocky and Rambo series to more nuanced roles in films like Creed and The Expendables, demonstrating their versatility. 

Similarly, Arnold Schwarzenegger has diversified his portfolio, appearing in comedies and dramas that highlight his acting range.

Chan could certainly explore new genres and roles that allow him to showcase his acting experience beyond the physicality. 

This is not just about ­adapting to the changing tastes of the audience. 

The audience's expectations are evolving, and so should the roles offered to veteran actors like Chan.

Furthermore, the film industry is increasingly competitive, with a plethora of content vying for audience attention. 

The rise of streaming ­platforms and the sheer volume of films released each year have made it more challenging for any single film to stand out. 

This environment demands more than just a recognizable face; it demands innovation, creativity, and a willingness to take risks. 

In conclusion, while the box-office performance of Chan's recent films may be disappointing to some, it's crucial to look beyond the surface. 

The success of a film is multifaceted, and the responsibility for its performance cannot be placed solely on the shoulders of one actor, no matter how iconic.

The author is a reporter with the Global Times. life@globaltimes.com.cn