Encore Films has acquired global distribution rights outside of mainland China Kung Fu FootballStephen Chow’s first film as director in seven years, is the long-awaited spin-off to his beloved martial arts-football blockbuster. Shaolin Football From 2001.
The Singapore-based distributor will handle the theatrical and related rights across international markets outside the mainland, where the film will be released by Maoyan Entertainment. Release dates have yet to be announced.
Chow wrote and directed Kung Fu Football – It has been covered for the past two years under its stated title, Shaolin Women’s Football – But he does not appear in it, after he retired from acting after 2008 CJ7. The film recasts Shaolin Football The film revolves around an all-female team: the underdog Emei, who incorporates martial arts into their game for an unlikely run at the tournament. Zhang Xiao Fei (Hello mom) leads the team as the team leader, along with Dilraba Dilmurat and Lei Zhang (Zhang Yixing).
The film was filmed in 2025 and is now in post-production – with extensive use of visual effects – with the film expected to be released in 2026, the 25th anniversary of Shaolin Football. It also hopes to capitalize on the global enthusiasm surrounding this year’s FIFA World Cup.
Chow remains one of the most internationally recognized figures in Chinese-speaking cinema, with an impressive body of irreverent work that includes Shaolin Football, mermaid, CJ7 and Kung Fu Hustlethe last of which grossed more than $100 million worldwide.
“Most football movies ask: Can they win the game?” said Joyce Lee, managing director of Encore. A Stephen Chow film asks: “Can they win the match while breaking the laws of physics?”
Encore Films, founded in 2003, has built a regional distribution business out of Singapore, with recent releases including anime setting records. Ni Cha 2. gained Kung Fu Football From Chow’s production banner, The Star Overseas, other land deals are still in the works.
A spokesperson for The Star Overseas added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Encore Films. With its extensive experience in international distribution and strong network of partners around the world, we believe Kung Fu Soccer will reach audiences in many markets. We also look forward to working with outstanding distribution partners around the world to bring this exciting film to global audiences.”
