Stephen Chow's 'Kung Fu Soccer' Secures Global Distribution Outside China

Encore Films, a Singapore‑based distributor, has acquired worldwide theatrical and related rights for Stephen Chow’s long‑awaited spin‑off "Kung Fu Soccer" in all markets except mainland China. Maoyan Entertainment will handle distribution within the Chinese mainland. The film, Chow’s first directorial effort in seven years, revisits the premise of his 2001 hit Shaolin Soccer with an all‑women’s team, the Emei squad, blending martial arts and football. The cast includes Zhang Xiaofei as captain, alongside Dilraba Dilmurat and Lay Zhang. Shot in 2025 and now in post‑production with extensive visual effects, the release is slated for 2026 to coincide with the FIFA World Cup and the 25th anniversary of Shaolin Soccer. Joyce Lee, managing director of Encore Films, said the project will “reach audiences across many markets” and highlighted Chow’s signature mix of comedy, imagination and physics‑defying action. The deal positions the film for a broad international rollout, including North American theatrical releases.