Singapore-based Encore Films has secured global theatrical distribution rights and associated rights to director Stephen Chow’s new film “Kung Fu Soccer” outside mainland China.
A co-production between China and Hong Kong, this action-comedy follows the Emei women’s soccer team as they compete in the “Supreme Invincible Cup,” a fictional tournament that combines martial arts and sports. The ensemble cast is led by Xiaofei Zhang, Dilraba Dilmurat, and Lei Zhang Yixing.
In mainland China, the film will be distributed by Maoyan Entertainment. Following the international release of the record-setting animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2, Encore Films will oversee all other territories and continue its expansion into large-scale Chinese commercial releases.
“Director Stephen Chow is widely known as the ‘King of Comedy’ and is one of the rare filmmakers whose work has transcended cultures and entertained audiences for decades,” said Joyce Lee, Managing Director of Encore Films. “Most soccer movies ask, ‘Can we win the game?’ Stephen Chow’s film asks, “Can you beat the laws of physics and still win the game?” That’s the magic of Kung Fu Soccer, a film that combines imagination, action, heart, and comedy in a way that only director Chow could. ”
A spokesperson for The Star Overseas Limited added: “With our extensive international distribution experience 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 our excellent distribution partners around the world to bring this exciting film to audiences around the world.”
“Kung Fu Soccer” marks Chou’s return to the soccer and martial arts genres more than 20 years after “Shaolin Soccer”. It is also the director’s first feature-length work since 2019’s The New King of Comedy. The film is intended to be released in multiple languages, with dialogue in Chinese, Cantonese, English, Korean, Japanese, and Thai. The film aims to capitalize on the excitement of the 2026 FIFA Soccer World Cup, and a release date has not yet been confirmed. Chow’s previous films include “Kung Fu Hustle,” which grossed more than $100 million worldwide, as well as “CJ7” and “The Mermaid.”
Encore Films is currently in discussions with distribution partners in international markets and further regional announcements are expected.
