Karate Kid: Legends movie star Jackie Chan has officially kicked off production on his latest action film — and he’s doing it in a country that rolled out a remarkably warm welcome for the occasion.
The legendary Hong Kong actor attended the official launch ceremony for Armour of God: Ultimatum in Almaty, Kazakhstan on July 9, marking the formal start of principal photography on what is shaping up to be one of the most significant Kazakhstan-China cinematic collaborations in recent memory, according to the Astana Times citing the Kazakhstan Ministry of Culture and Information.
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A High-Level Welcome
The launch ceremony was far from a quiet affair. It brought together Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Culture and Information Aida Balayeva, Almaty Mayor Darkhan Satybaldy, Almaty Region Governor Marat Sultangaziyev, and representatives from both Kazakhstan’s and the international film industries.
Balayeva personally welcomed Chan to the country, thanking him for his role in strengthening cultural ties between Kazakhstan and China and for bringing the production to Kazakhstani soil. The ceremony concluded with the traditional film slate photograph — the universal symbol marking the beginning of principal photography — with the entire official delegation gathered around Chan for the commemorative moment.
Chan Meets the Next Generation
Beyond the official proceedings, Chan took time during the event to meet with young artists from Almaty and recent graduates of the Temirbek Zhurgenov Kazakh National Academy of Arts. He encouraged the aspiring filmmakers and performers to pursue their creative ambitions without hesitation, emphasizing the value of continuous learning and genuine passion for the craft. In a touching moment, the young attendees presented Chan with portraits they had created of him in his honor.
Where and When Filming Takes Place?
Production on Armour of God: Ultimatum is scheduled to run from July through October 2026, spanning three distinct locations across the country — Almaty, the Almaty Region, and the Mangystau Region. The film is being directed by Kazakhstani filmmaker Robert Kun and is produced by Kazakhstan’s Sälem Entertainment in partnership with Hong Kong-based Billion Target, with backing from both the Kazakh Ministry of Culture and Information and China’s state-owned China Film Group Corporation.
Officials involved in the project described it as a strategic production — one designed not just to entertain global audiences but to actively showcase Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage, tourism potential, and investment appeal to the wider world. The film is also expected to contribute to the growth of film tourism in the region and help cement Kazakhstan’s growing reputation as a destination for major international productions.
Armour of God: Ultimatum is intended for international theatrical release, with a release date yet to be confirmed.
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