“A Forgotten Jet Li Movie Remade a Kevin Costner Film — and Nailed It”
How 1994’s Jet Li Martial Arts Movie Remade a Kevin Costner Classic — and Made It Better
Released in 1994, The Bodyguard from Beijing is a Hong Kong martial arts film starring Jet Li as Allan, a skilled bodyguard hired to protect Michelle Leung (Christy Chung), the girlfriend of a wealthy businessman who becomes a witness to a murder. In the U.S., the film was released under the title The Defender, with Allan’s name changed to John Chang. The movie earned approximately HK$11.2 million at the box office, roughly $1.4 million USD.
Despite being somewhat underrated, The Bodyguard from Beijing is widely regarded as one of Jet Li’s best films, praised especially for its thrilling fight choreography and dynamic action sequences. While the focus is on martial arts, the movie also incorporates a romantic subplot as Michelle develops feelings for her protector. However, it’s hard to overlook the striking similarities between The Bodyguard from Beijing and the 1992 American film The Bodyguard, starring Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston.
The Bodyguard from Beijing Is Essentially an Unofficial Remake of The Bodyguard
Both films share a nearly identical premise: a bodyguard tasked with protecting a high-profile woman who is being targeted by dangerous forces. The Bodyguard (1992), directed by Mick Jackson, follows Frank Farmer (Kevin Costner), a former Secret Service agent assigned to protect pop superstar Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston) from a mysterious stalker. Despite their initial friction, a romance develops between them.
The Bodyguard was a massive commercial hit, grossing over $411 million worldwide on a $25 million budget. Whitney Houston’s soundtrack, including hits like “I Have Nothing” and “Run to You,” earned Academy Award nominations, and the film received multiple award nominations despite mixed critical reviews. Interestingly, it also earned seven Golden Raspberry nominations.
While The Bodyguard from Beijing lacks the musical element of its American counterpart, the core storyline is nearly identical: a protector falls in love with the woman he’s guarding, faces a dangerous antagonist, and is ultimately wounded while saving her. Many view the Jet Li film as an unofficial remake, one that reinterprets the story through the lens of Hong Kong martial arts cinema.
Why The Bodyguard from Beijing Surpasses The Bodyguard
While Kevin Costner’s The Bodyguard holds a place in pop culture history and elevated Whitney Houston’s star status, it does have shortcomings where Jet Li’s film shines. Costner’s performance is more reserved and emotionally restrained, whereas Jet Li brings a charismatic energy that is amplified by his impressive martial arts prowess.
The Bodyguard from Beijing is notably more engaging due to its faster pace, humor, and energetic fight scenes. It keeps audiences hooked much more effectively than The Bodyguard, which emphasizes slow-burning romantic drama and emotional depth. For viewers seeking a more exciting and action-packed experience, Jet Li’s version is the clear winner.
This contrast makes one wonder: could the original The Bodyguard have been even better if it had incorporated more martial arts and action alongside its romance?
