Here is what Jackie Chan said to Beijing Youth:

Why remake AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS?

I knew the novel long time ago. The producers came to me and told me the plot, an adventure story good for everyone around the world to see. I had no clue what else they would want me to do, but I wanted a new and challenging role. Now we have shot in Thailand and Germany, and then we will go to Norway and America.

In the novel, part of the story takes place in China, but why chose Thailand for shooting (the Chinese scenes)?

Because it's cheaper to shoot (the scenes) in Thailand and the whether is also right (actually, Jackie Chan has being complaining about the hot Thai weather again and again in his diaries). We built a giant village (set) in Thailand, which even includes mountains and rivers (?). All Asian scenes of the movie were shot there. This project costs as high as US$110 million, and is the most expensive film of mine. Besides my actions, the director will make the film's visual more beautiful with a lot of CG effects.

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS is a French science-fiction novel. Will you show us your Jackie Chan type stunts in the film again? (Dumbest question ever!)

Sure there will be Jackie Chan type stunts and they will be very exciting (to watch). There are many shots involve (a) hot-air balloon. You will see the balloon flying over Niagara Falls. Of cause, the director and the director of cinematographer consult with me before doing each shot. If I think a stunt I can't do, then we just don't do it and we rather not to use doubles.

Is there any other Chinese actor in the film?

There are many actors in AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS. I invited many of my Chinese friends to play cameo roles - Karen Mok, Maggie Q (a Scorpion Agent), and Vivian Wu. Maggie Cheung may also play a role. (He forgot Sammo Hung!)

Can you tell me something about the director?

You are talking about (Frank) Coraci? He is a funny guy. He directed THE WEDDING SINGER and THE WATERBOY, both are comedies. It's his first time to helm a project this big and he thought this is something very exciting.

RUSH HOUR and RUSH HOUR 2 you made in Hollywood were very successful in box-office. Fans are expecting (a third one). Will you do it again?

Yes. Now the director is working on the script of the third one, but I don't when will I be available for it.