Cultural Figures

“Do not let circumstances control you. You change your circumstances.”
– Jackie Chan

52 Hong Kong

Jackie Chan (b.1954)

Actor

Known for his acrobatic fighting stunts, comic timing and use of improvised weapons, the world-famous Chan has acted in over 150 films since the 1960s. In addition to the movies, Chan is also a well-known philanthropist, lending his support to various humanitarian and environmental causes through charities such as UNICEF and his own Jackie Chan Charitable Foundation.

53 China/Singapore

Gong Li (b.1965)

Actress

Credited with helping to bring Chinese cinema to prominence in Europe and the United States, she achieved international prominence through her roles in Chinese director Zhang Yimou’s films, including Raise the Red Lantern (1991). Now a naturalised Singaporean, Gong is slated to appear in Disney’s 2020 release of Mulan alongside other stars, including Jet Li and Liu Yifei.

“We need storytelling. Otherwise life just goes on and on, like the number Pi.”
– Ang Lee

54 Taiwan

Ang Lee (b.1954)

Film director

Lee is a director and screenwriter with a string of acclaimed films to his name, including Eat Drink Man Woman and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. His work on Brokeback Mountain and Life of Pi won him Academy Awards for Best Director. His films are significant in their ability to transcend cultural barriers and achieve international recognition.

55 China

Jia Zhangke (b.1970)

Film director & screenwriter

Generally considered