‘The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang’ was released last month in Baghdad
Jackie Chan’s latest film The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang is proving to be popular in Iraq
Xinhua reports that Jackie Chan’s newest film The Knight of Shadows: Between Yin and Yang is attracting cinema-goers in Iraq.
Released in late March in Baghdad, Chan’s new film has attracted countless fans to the cinema on a daily basis.
Before the US invaded Iraq in 2003, local al-Shabab TV used to broadcast Chan’s films during the weekends.
Many Iraqi’s remember Chan as symbol of the 90’s and for his humor and martial arts.
“I’m excited,” said pharmacist Ali Kasim after watching The Knight Of Shadows. “It was like the 1990s all over again, to see my favorite artist Chan.”
“When I was a kid, my family used to gather around the TV on Friday afternoon to see a movie, and Chan’s action comedies were our favorites. Today, I watched his latest film with my wife and two kids, and we all enjoyed it,” Kasim continued.
“Chan always reminds me of his predecessor, Bruce Lee. The two martial artists have drawn the interest of millions worldwide to Chinese cinema, and it never failed to impress,” he added.
“We’ve seen many of his films before,” said dentistry student Haider Abdul. “He always mixes humor with action, and we liked his latest film.”
“Last year, I saw a Chan movie — the Foreigner. It was very good,” college student Ali Thaer said. “He’s very popular and loved here, we grew up watching his films. I’ve seen many Chinese films before. Their plots are generally interesting, but Chan’s films remain my favorites.”
In the 2019 fantasy comedy, Chan playsPu Songling – a legendary demon hunter who prevents beasts from entering the human dimension.
Many Iraqis also believe that China will lead the way in filmmaking, providing a viable alternative to Hollywood.
“I always have high expectations for the Chinese films, for they offer breathtaking scenery blended with traditional martial arts and music,” Kasim said.
“As many Chinese companies invest in the country, closer ties with China are expected in the upcoming stage, especially that Iraq is seeking to be strongly involved in the Belt and Road Initiative,” Kasim continued
“Better Sino-Iraqi ties will widely open horizon for cultural exchange, paving the way for more Chinese movies to make their way onto Iraqi screens,” Kasim added.