Why are Western cinema goers getting excited about Asian movies and Hong Kong movies in particular?

I think a few reasons. One is movies always go in circles. Maybe ten years later one kind of movie is very popular. Recently Hong Kong action movies very popular in the States. Also in this generation a lot of people when they was young, played again, again "Streetfighter". I think Jackie Chan and I, because we learn martial art first, we become actor, it's quite different from Hollywood actor. There, actor first, then they learn Kung Fu or martial art or whatever, it's different.

I've noticed that in the two big successes that Jackie Chan has had, they paired him up with a comedian, an American guy. But you are kinda taking a different route, more the action role on your own, especially in "Romeo Must Die". Have they tried to pair you up with anyone?

I think Jackie and I have a different style. He's the comedian, he's stunts, physical, he is a very good actor for one kind of movie, action style. My style is a little bit different, more traditional Chinese martial arts and serious character. Now a lot of romance. So quite different. I think the audience know what the differences between Jackie and I are. We are close friends.

Jet Li talks abouthis role in "Romeo Must Die"