Art of Action

I kick and punch quite hard, and it surprises people.”Michelle Yeoh

I just want people to remember me like I remember Buster Keaton. Maybe one day, they remember Jackie Chan that way.”Jackie Chan

From the first instance that film cameras first started rolling, the action genre has helped to shape the language of cinema. It’s time to celebrate the physicality of actors and the stunt performers whose extraordinary on-screen exploits push the boundaries of filmmaking, writes BFI FAN season producer Ti Singh.

Early action films, such as the swashbucklers of Douglas Fairbanks, introduced audiences to chase sequences, protagonists in peril and literal cliffhangers and would have a great influence on directors that would follow. In this nationwide season we will be throwing you into the explosive world of action stunt-work; from these early pioneers to the boundary-pushing films of Hong Kong through to today’s new wave of action stars. Experience the genre through the ages with a selection of cult classics to lesser-known gems from around the world.

With the advent of computer generated effects, action films have evolved radically and while audiences may think that a lot can and is done digitally, the likes of Jackie Chan, Charlize Theron, Michele Yeoh, Tom Cruise and Keanu Reeves have dedicated themselves to doing ‘action for real’ to give audiences unparalleled thrills.

Art of Action, a BFI FAN initiative supported through National Lottery, will play in cinemas across the UK and online on BFI Player from October to December 2024 with the full programme announced Tuesday 17 September.

Find out more about the Art of Action season