Encore Films announced today that it has secured worldwide theatrical distribution rights for Stephen Chow’s upcoming feature “Kung Fu Soccer,” a China‑Hong Kong co‑production that fuses martial arts with the world’s favorite sport.
A cross‑cultural spectacle
The film centers on the Emei Women’s Football Team as they compete in a fictional tournament where acrobatic kicks meet traditional wushu, creating a visual blend that aims to captivate both sports enthusiasts and action‑movie fans.
Set against the growing excitement surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the project is positioned to ride the wave of global football enthusiasm while offering a fresh narrative that highlights female athletes on an international stage.
The ensemble cast features Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba Dilmurat and Lay Zhang Yixing, who bring together a mix of mainland Chinese, Hong Kong and international talent. Their performances are expected to anchor the film’s ambitious choreography and comedic timing.
In Mainland China, distribution will be handled by Maoyan Entertainment, a partnership that underscores Encore Films’ strategy to penetrate large‑scale commercial markets. The collaboration also reflects a broader effort to expand Encore’s footprint beyond traditional territories.
Stephen Chow, widely celebrated as the “King of Comedy,” returns to the soccer‑martial‑arts hybrid after more than twenty years, following the success of titles such as “Kung Fu Hustle,” “CJ7” and “The Mermaid.” His involvement adds a layer of cultural resonance that transcends regional boundaries.
Multi‑language ambition
The screenplay will be rendered in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Korean, Japanese and Thai, allowing the film to reach diverse audiences without the need for extensive dubbing. This approach reflects a growing trend of cross‑border storytelling in contemporary cinema.
Encore Films is currently in talks with partners across Europe, North America and Southeast Asia to coordinate releases that align with regional sporting calendars, ensuring that the film’s launch capitalizes on peak viewership periods.