An Underrated Martial Arts Action Cult Classic Is Getting a Spin-Off

Stephen Chow's 2001 hit Shaolin Soccer helped revive international interest in Hong Kong martial arts cinema, blending absurd humor with kung fu and sports spectacle. The film grossed $42.8 million worldwide against a $10 million budget, and Chow's follow-up, Kung Fu Hustle, proved even more lucrative, earning five times its $20 million budget.

Now the franchise is returning after two decades with a spin-off titled Kung Fu Soccer. Singapore-based Encore Films has acquired Chow's latest feature, which is currently in post-production, for worldwide release; the film is expected to hit theaters later this year to coincide with Shaolin Soccer's 25th anniversary.

Kung Fu Soccer leans into Chow's trademark slapstick and over-the-top stunts, centering on a Chinese women's team competing in the Asian Women's Champions League.

Singapore, Hong Kong

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