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Singapore-based Encore Films has secured worldwide theatrical distribution and related rights outside Mainland China for “Kung Fu Soccer,” the new feature from filmmaker Stephen Chow.
The action comedy – a China-Hong
Kong co-production – follows the Emei Women’s Football Team as it battles through the fictional “Supreme Invincible Cup” tournament, blending martial arts with sport. The ensemble cast is led by Zhang Xiaofei, Dilraba Dilmurat and Lay Zhang Yixing.
In Mainland China, the film will be distributed by Maoyan Entertainment. Encore Films will oversee all other territories, continuing its expansion into large-scale Chinese commercial releases following its international rollout of the record-breaking animated blockbuster “Ne Zha 2.”
“Director Stephen Chow is widely regarded as the ‘King of Comedy’ and one of the rare filmmakers whose work has entertained audiences across cultures for decades,” said Joyce Lee, managing director of Encore Films. “Most football films ask, ‘Can they win the match?’ A Stephen Chow film asks, ‘Can they win the match while breaking the laws of physics?’ That’s the magic of ‘Kung Fu Soccer’ – a film that blends imagination, action, heart, and comedy in a way only Chow can.”
“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,” a spokesperson for The Star Overseas Limited added.
“Kung Fu Soccer” marks Chow’s return to the soccer-and-martial-arts genre more than two decades after “Shaolin Soccer.” It is also his first feature as director since 2019’s “The New King of Comedy.” The film is conceived as a multi-language release, with dialogue in Mandarin, Cantonese, English, Korean, Japanese and Thai. The film has been positioned to capitalize on excitement around the 2026 FIFA soccer World Cup, with the release date still to be confirmed. Chow’s previous films include “Kung Fu Hustle,” which grossed over $100 million worldwide, along with “CJ7” and “The Mermaid.”
Encore Films is currently in discussions with distribution partners across international markets, with further territorial announcements expected.
