I have many special memories of receiving the Grand Prize of the Americas award at the 2001 Montreal World Film Festival. At the time, Rush Hour 2 was on its way to being a blockbuster hit and I was, of course, thrilled. But I remember feeling just as elated to be recognized by an organization which encouraged understanding and tolerance between nations since this was something I had always hoped for as far back as I can remember. In the years since I received the Grand Prize award, I have continued to work hard to promote cooperation and understanding between people of different backgrounds through my charity work and my films. My latest movie, The Myth, featured actors from Korea, India, and China. It was filmed in several countries and included dialogue in four different languages!

At the film festival, I remember someone asking me what it felt like to be a "global star". I don't recall exactly what my answer was, but I know that I mentioned the importance of remaining true to myself and my culture. I am very proud of my Chinese heritage and I enjoy sharing my culture with audiences. I feel that the more we know about each other, the easier it will be to understand and accept our differences. The World Film Festival has been a perfect venue to showcase talent from all over the world and to encourage the production of movies for a global audience and I was very proud to be a part of it.

Regards,
Jackie Chan

Invit� du Festival en / Festival guest in 2001

2001

• Hommage / Tribute
• Grand prix des Am�riques pour sa contribution exceptionnelle � l'art cin�matographique / Grand Prize of the Americas for his exceptional contribution to the art of the cinema