🎬 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 (𝟏𝟗𝟖𝟓)

The Protector (1985) is an American martial arts action film directed by James Glickenhaus and starring the legendary Jackie Chan. This film is notable for being one of Jackie Chan’s earlier attempts to break into the American film market following his success in Hong Kong cinema.

The story follows Billy Wong (Jackie Chan), a New York City cop, and his partner, Danny Garoni (Danny Aiello), as they take on dangerous criminals. When a wealthy man’s daughter is kidnapped during a high-stakes drug operation, Billy and Danny are assigned to the case, which takes them from the gritty streets of New York to the underworld of Hong Kong.

In Hong Kong, the duo must navigate ruthless gangsters, betrayals, and action-packed scenarios as they uncover a powerful drug syndicate and fight to rescue the kidnapped woman. The story mixes traditional police procedural elements with high-energy martial arts, though it leans more toward Western action tropes.

While the film includes some impressive fight sequences, such as Jackie taking on multiple gangsters or leaping through industrial settings, it lacks the creativity and energy found in his Hong Kong hits. The gun-heavy, grittier tone of the film often contrasts with Jackie’s natural charm and light-hearted approach to action.