Jackie Chan is 70 years old. Panda Plan is reportedly Jackie’s last ever action comedy. And while he may have lost a step or two in the action stakes, the comedy is still there. In this charming send-off, Chan brings his signature humor and a healthy dose of self-awareness to the screen, delivering a family-friendly romp that’s as heartfelt as it is lighthearted.
In Panda Plan, Jackie plays a fictionalized version of himself, an aging international action star who’s more accustomed to movie sets than real-life danger. When he adopts Hu Hu, a rare baby panda with a distinctive one-eyed patch, he finds himself caught up in a wild rescue mission after a crime syndicate puts a massive bounty on the adorable cub. Joined by Hu Hu’s caretaker and his own agent, Jackie embarks on a slapstick-filled adventure to outwit the villains and save his furry companion.
The plot is as endearingly whimsical as it sounds, offering plenty of opportunities for Chan’s trademark humor and action. Whether it’s a chaotic furniture-based brawl or a frantic car chase, Panda Plan leans heavily on the comedic side of the action-comedy spectrum, providing laugh-out-loud moments for the whole family.
While Chan’s agility isn’t what it once was, his charm and comedic timing remain impeccable. The film cleverly incorporates jokes about his age and career, poking fun at his “big and wide” nose and referencing his legendary status in the action world. These self-deprecating moments add a layer of authenticity to the film, making it feel like a love letter to his fans as much as a farewell to the genre he helped define.
Hu Hu, the CGi baby panda, is undeniably adorable, and the behind-the-scenes detail of using real panda sounds from Sichuan province adds an extra touch of authenticity. The supporting cast, including rising Chinese comedian Shi Ce and Wei Xiang, bring their own flair to the film, ensuring that the laughs keep coming, if at time a bit waring.
Panda Plan isn’t a game-changer, nor does it try to be. The action sequences, while fun, lack the edge of Chan’s earlier films (Project A, Wheels on Meals, Police Story, Mr Nice Guy), and the plot is predictable at times. However, its charm lies in its simplicity and its ability to showcase what makes Jackie Chan so beloved: his ability to make audiences laugh, cheer, and feel deeply connected to his characters.
For longtime fans, Panda Plan is a bittersweet farewell to one of cinema’s greatest action stars. It may not rank among his most iconic films, but it’s a fitting tribute to his legacy, complete with humor, heart, and an undeniably adorable panda co-star. If this truly is Jackie’s last action comedy, it’s a satisfying, family-friendly curtain call.

Panda Plan will be in UK cinemas for a limited run starting January 17, 2025. Don’t miss this chance to say goodbye to a legend.
Where to watch Panda Plan: https://www.trinitycineasia.com/en/movie/panda-plan?whereToWatch=in-cinemas