THE MEDALLION – New Jackie Chan film shot in Ireland
Jackie Chan’s latest film, the stunt laden THE MEDALLION, which was released by Columbia Tristar in Ireland last weekend, is an example of the innovative ways in which Ireland is securing mobile international production. The movie was shot in Dublin between May and September 2001. This major motion picture also shot sequences in Thailand and Hong kong.The filmmakers chose to film complex stunt sequences at the Clarion hotel on Clarion Quay and in Dublin Castle. The Honourable Society of Kings Inns, which is the oldest institution of legal education in Ireland, founded in 1541 during the reign of Henry VIII, also played a major role in the movie. Dunluce Castle in Co. Antrim provided an exterior setting for the "villains lair" and interestingly, the interior of Dunluce was recreated in Thailand!
Ireland plays host to an average of 10 incoming major motion pictures annually. They choose Ireland because of the wealth of contrasting urban and rural locations, skilled cast and crew base, comprehensive production infrastructure and the financial tax based incentives.
The Irish Film Boards Locations Services Unit facilitates and encourages big budget productions like THE MEDALLION to choose Ireland as a film location. The Unit primarily provides assistance to producers of feature films, but also, television drama, documentaries, commercials, corporate videos, music videos and still photography.
The Location Services Unit maintains an extensive Digital Locations Database, which currently holds 15,000 location stills. This database is the Units main marketing tool for the promotion of Ireland as a film location. Location Services also works closely with State and Semi-State bodies to create a film-friendly production environment.