With Chinese actions stars Jackie Chan and Jet Li more or less successfully establishing a foothold in Hollywood, why has Donnie Yen not done the same? Even newcomer Tony Jaa from Thailand has started to gain some publicity in North America. Donnie's only big screen North American release is Iron Monkey, a previously released film. He has yet to do a film specifically targeted for the North American market. Nonetheless, he has appeared in Hollywood movies such as Shanghai Knights and Blade 2. But he has yet to star in any Hollywood films. He will be playing a part alongside George Clooney in the remake of the Japanse classic, The Seven Samurai. But George will probably still be the main lead in that movie.
Perhaps he prefers to work behind the scenes as an action director. Stormbreaker, an upcoming Summer Hollywood blockbuster, has action scenes designed by Donnie. He was also the action director for Blade 2.
If you are thirsty for some Donnie Yen action, be sure to check out SPL, an action packed police thriller in which Donnie directs and kicks butt. Dragon Tiger Gate is Donnie's newest upcoming film to be released this Summer in Asia. The trailers definitely look good!
With the caliber of films Donnie is starring in these days, why doesn't he consider Hollywood more seriously?
Below is a trailer for Dragon Tiger Gate.
