HKCinemagic: What was it like working on that film and shooting in Hong Kong? |
Scott Adkins: We actually shot it in China but it was a Hong Kong production. It was my first opportunity in a martial arts movie so I was very willing to learn as much as I could and work as hard as I could. It’s different out there, there seems to be no separation between stunt men, actors and set dressers, everyone gets stuck in together. I have been very lucky to get to learn from some of the best Hong Kong choreographers. If you’re going to be doing martial arts films then what better place to learn than in Hong Kong. |
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HKCinemagic: Some western martial artists and stuntmen have described being ‘tested’ by their Hong Kong counterparts. Did you ever find yourself in that position? |
Scott Adkins: I guess so. On the Medallion I was aware that they wanted to give me the end fight with Jackie Chan but first they wanted to test me out in a smaller scene fighting Jackie Chan, I knew if I blew it I wouldn’t get the end fight. Luckily for me I didn’t blow it but unluckily they cut the fight from the movie. |
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HKCinemagic: In fact, many Hong Kong filmmakers and stuntmen have been very praiseworthy of your talents! What do you feel are the most important skills and lessons you learned working in Hong Kong? |
Scott Adkins: Rhythm, distance and that what feels right to you might look different in camera so you need to be able to adjust to the lens. They also have a very strong work ethic, there’s no moaning or diva tantrums, you have to get on with it and not complain. |
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HKCinemagic: Hong Kong martial artists and stuntmen are renowned for sustaining injuries while shooting; did you ever experience any injuries while filming there? |
Scott Adkins: I tore my hamstring fighting Jackie on The Medallion, which was nice. You pick up some sort of injury on any action movie you do, it’s just part of the deal, it’s unavoidable. |
Jackie vs Scott in The Medaillon |
HKCinemagic: While you were there, was there anyone you met whom you were particularly impressed with? |
Scott Adkins: Jackie Chan of course. Not only is he an incredible martial arts performer but he has so much knowledge of film making. |
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HKCinemagic: You’ve now worked with him twice (on The Accidental Spy and The Medallion) – how did you feel when you found out you’d be appearing opposite one of your lifelong heroes? |
Scott Adkins: It’s very daunting to trade punches with someone who has created some of the most memorable fight scenes in the world. You are just so aware of the skill and depth of knowledge in the man. Everyday was a learning experience. Just to be asked to perform alongside him was a great honour. |
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HKCinemagic: Likewise, you’ve now worked with such names as Jet Li and Jean-Claude Van Damme. Of all these various collaborations, do you have a favourite? Is there a film you are especially proud of? |
Scott Adkins: I don’t feel like I ever got to have a great one on one fight scene with any of these guys and most of them are getting a bit old now so I can’t say I’m especially proud of any of the Hong Kong stuff I’ve done. If I could do it with anyone now it would be Donnie Yen, he is, for me, the premiere martial arts performer of the moment along with Tony Jaa. |