Full Breakdown
Stephen Chow’s “Kung Fu Soccer” Prepares for Global Release
6/23/2026, 8:59:53 PM
New Film Revives Shaolin Soccer Legacy
Stephen Chow’s upcoming comedy-action “Kung Fu Soccer” marks his first directorial effort in seven years and a spiritual spin-off of the 2001 hit “Shaolin Soccer.” The story follows the underdog Emei women’s football team, which blends martial-arts techniques with soccer in a bid for a championship. The film is slated for a 2026 theatrical debut, timed with the 25th anniversary of the original and the global excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
From Shaolin Soccer to a 25-Year Milestone
“Shaolin Soccer” established Chow as an internationally recognizable Chinese-language filmmaker, later delivering blockbusters such as “Kung Fu Hustle,” “The Mermaid,” and “CJ7.” After stepping back from acting in 2008, Chow returned to directing with “The New King Of Comedy” (2019) and now turns to “Kung Fu Soccer,” re-imagining the original premise with an all-female cast.
Key Figures & Groups
- Stephen Chow – writer-director, announced the project via a 13-second social-media video on 22 June 2025.
- Cast – Zhang Xiaofei (captain), Dilraba Dilmurat, Lay Zhang; cameo appearances by retired Chinese goalkeeper Zhao Lina, defender Li Jiayue, and South Korean actor Song Kang-ho as a referee.
- Production – The Star Overseas (Chow’s banner).
- Distribution – Encore Films (Singapore) will handle theatrical and related rights outside mainland China; Maoyan Entertainment will distribute within China.
Timeline of Development
- Mar 2025 – Principal photography begins.
- Jun 2025 – Filming wraps; Chow posts a hand-drawn poster concept and confirms post-production status.
- 22 Jun 2025 – Chow replies to a video prompt: “I’m working hard to make it by July 10,” then adds “Then it’ll be July 17,” and finally “Well, we’ll make it one day.”
- 23 Jun 2025 – Encore Films issues a press statement confirming its role as international distributor.
- 17 Feb 2026 (Chinese New Year) – Chow hints the film will likely release later in 2026.
- 2026 – Expected worldwide theatrical launch, aligning with the 25th anniversary of “Shaolin Soccer.”
Official Statements & Responses
Encore Films’ managing director Joyce Lee noted that while most football movies ask whether a team can win, a Chow film asks whether they can win “while breaking the laws of physics.” A spokesperson for The Star Overseas expressed delight in collaborating with Encore, citing the distributor’s global network and confidence that the film will reach audiences worldwide. Encore’s own statement emphasized its responsibility for theatrical and related rights outside mainland China, while Maoyan Entertainment will manage Chinese distribution.
Market Competition Concerns
Hong Kong media reports warn that a July release would pit “Kung Fu Soccer” against high-profile Hollywood titles—including a live-action “Moana,” Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” and the superhero film “Spider-Man: Brand New Day”—potentially diluting box-office attention.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources diverge on the release window: Chow’s June 2025 social-media video targets July 10/17 2025, whereas a February 2026 Chinese New Year post suggests a later 2026 debut. No definitive release date has been confirmed, and distribution agreements for territories beyond mainland China remain in negotiation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A Stephen Chow film asks, ‘Can they win the match while breaking the laws of physics?'” — Joyce Lee, Managing Director, Encore Films
- “We are delighted to collaborate with Encore Films. With its extensive international distribution experience and strong network of partners worldwide, we believe Kung Fu Soccer will reach audiences across many markets. We also look forward to working with outstanding distribution partners around the world to bring this exciting film to global audiences.” — Spokesperson, The Star Overseas
- “I’m working hard to make it by July 10,” — Stephen Chow, via social-media video, 22 Jun 2025
- “Then it’ll be July 17,” — Stephen Chow, via social-media video, 22 Jun 2025
- “Well, we’ll make it one day,” — Stephen Chow, via social-media video, 22 Jun 2025
What’s Next
The film is expected to launch globally in 2026, leveraging the FIFA World Cup buzz and the nostalgia of “Shaolin Soccer.” Encore Films continues to secure additional regional partners, while industry observers watch for a final release date and the impact of competing summer blockbusters.
