Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 is officially moving forward with a reported budget exceeding $100 million, partially funded by Saudi Arabia, according to new industry reports. The highly anticipated sequel starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker enters production at a time marked by both excitement and controversy.
Confirmation of Budget and Production Details
In a recent Puck column by journalist Kim Masters, it was revealed that Rush Hour 4, produced by Paramount, has secured a budget surpassing $100 million. A portion of these substantial funds comes from Saudi Arabia, though the full details of the overseas financing remain undisclosed. Brett Ratner, director of the original trilogy and the upcoming film, was contacted by Masters to clarify production rumors, particularly rumors involving Melania Trump’s company, Muse Films, and the facilitation of the Saudi financing by producer Tarak Ben Ammar.
“Muse Films is absolutely not involved in Rush Hour 4,”
Brett Ratner, Director
“What a ridiculous assumption that Muse Films is producing. Tarak is the producer and financier, and I am not privy to the details of his conversations. The budget is over 100m. Happy Holidays.”
Brett Ratner, Director
Reports indicate Ratner has informed studio executives that both Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker are ready to reprise their roles, adding momentum to the long-delayed project.
Distribution Arrangements and Franchise Background
Last month, Paramount reached a distribution agreement with Warner Bros., allowing them to move forward with the Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 project. Warner Bros. will receive a double-digit percentage distribution fee for granting Paramount rights to make and distribute the upcoming installment.
Rush Hour 4 faced major uncertainty for several years, largely due to sexual assault allegations against Brett Ratner, who directed all previous films in the series. Support for Ratner reportedly came from former President Donald Trump, who reached out to Oracle’s Larry Ellison to aid in getting the fourth film made. David Ellison, now CEO and chairman of Paramount Skydance, adds further influence from the Ellison family as the project ramps up.
Legacy of the Franchise and What Lies Ahead
The Rush Hour franchise, featuring Jackie Chan as Hong Kong Police Chief Inspector Lee and Chris Tucker as LAPD Detective James Carter, remains a staple in the buddy cop genre. Since its inception in 1998, the series has generated over $850 million globally from its three previous movies, making the upcoming sequel a significant event for fans and studios alike.
With a high-stakes budget and intricate backing involving major Hollywood figures and international funding, Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 stands at the intersection of anticipation and controversy. The renewed involvement of key stars, complex financing, and a storied legacy ensure this next chapter will be closely watched within the film industry.
