Jackie Chan's Icy Stunt: Falls Creek's Brush with Hollywood Stardom

Thirty years ago, the picturesque slopes of Falls Creek in the Victorian Alps transformed into an unlikely stand-in for Eastern Europe, attracting a major Hollywood production. The film, 'First Strike,' the fourth installment in the iconic Police Story series starring martial arts legend Jackie Chan, chose the Australian resort for its dramatic snow chase sequences, inspired by the world of James Bond.

Falls Creek Becomes a Cinematic Winter Wonderland

Production crews scouted the area, with local World Cup skier and three-time Olympian Steve Lee being a key contact. Lee, recommended by Canadian Ski Hall of Fame member John Eaves, was instrumental in securing Falls Creek for the shoot. After thorough site reconnaissance, the deal was finalized, etching Falls Creek into cinematic history.

In the winter of 1995, the film crew, including several Canadian stunt skiers, descended upon the Alpine resort. However, the unfamiliar Australian snow conditions presented challenges, leading to early injuries among the stunt team. This opened the door for Steve Lee, who was initially hesitant due to his own business commitments, to step in and perform some of the demanding stunts.

Behind the Scenes: Stunts and Stardom

The filming wasn't without its risks and dramatic moments. Lee recalled director Stanley Tong stepping in for Chan when the star sustained an ankle injury during the filming of 'Rumble in the Bronx,' a practice that had occurred on previous films. Tong himself performed a daring stunt, a more than 30-meter fall from an exploding helicopter into a frozen lake.

For the close-up shots, Jackie Chan himself braved the icy waters. Without a wetsuit, Chan spent approximately 30 minutes in the frigid lake, performing stunts under an ice sheet. Lee recounted that Chan had to be pulled from the water and received medical treatment for hypothermia, a testament to his dedication and toughness.

An Unforgettable Experience

The production was filled with 'wild bunch of humans,' as Lee described them. Director Stanley Tong also showcased incredible resilience, even breaking his ankle while performing a stunt that Lee was hesitant to attempt. During a break in filming due to bad weather, Tong even took a walk and accidentally slipped down a slope, requiring a search party.

Beyond the high-octane stunts, the set fostered a sense of camaraderie. Melbourne resident Don Weston and his family stumbled upon the filming of an exploding helicopter scene, documenting the cold and foggy conditions. Online film reviewer Nicholas Langdon noted the unique Australian landscape, recognizing Falls Creek despite attempts to disguise it as Ukraine with signage and flags.

Cam Smith, co-host of the SpyHards podcast, highlighted how the Falls Creek environment influenced Chan's action choreography, with moments like him barely avoiding a snowmobile or rubbing his hands to stay warm. Smith also pointed out the film's homage to the James Bond classic 'On Her Majesty's Secret Service.' Off-camera, the crew's energy was palpable, with Jackie Chan himself once performing a backflip onto a wooden beam in a restaurant during a cast and crew dinner, leaving onlookers cheering.