May 31 – June 1, 2025
Kung Fu Film Festival
Opening Film: Shaolin Temple
7 Film Screenings with Post-Screening Talks by Film Experts
Venue: City of Markham
City of Toronto
“Step into the world of martial arts and cinematic brilliance. The Kung Fu Film Festival brings legendary action, cultural depth, and East-meets-West storytelling to the heart of Toronto.”
Opening Film: Shaolin Temple 少林寺 (4K數碼修復版)
Jet Li made his screen debut at 19 in Cheung Yam-yim’s 1982 film The Shaolin Temple, playing Jue Yuan, a young man who seeks refuge in the temple after his father’s death. There, he begins his journey in martial arts. Unlike traditional depictions, the monks here drink, eat meat, and fight to kill when necessary—bringing raw realism to the story. Portrayed by real martial arts athletes, the cast adds authenticity, with Cheung capturing their self-choreographed scenes in long takes. The film launched a wave of Shaolin-themed cinema and established Li as a martial arts legend.
Martial Club 武館
Born into a martial arts family, Liu Jialiang—son of Liu Zhan, a disciple of Huang Feihong—rose to fame in the 1970s with films that showcased authentic Southern-style kung fu and emphasized martial ethics. Martial Club is one of his signature works. The film opens with Liu explaining lion dance traditions, leading into a visually striking sequence. The story follows a youthful Huang Feihong (Liu Jiahui) and his friend Wang Yinlin as they clash with a rival school, prompting a showdown with northern master Shan Xiong (Wang Longwei). Their encounters evolve into mutual respect, reflecting honour, growth, and martial humility.
Ip Man 3 葉問 3
Ip Man 3, directed by Wilson Yip, stars Donnie Yen as the legendary Wing Chun master. Set in 1959, the story follows Ip Man as he faces personal and professional challenges, including protecting his school and family from a ruthless property developer, played by Mike Tyson. The film also delves into Ip Man’s relationship with his wife, played by Lynn Xiong, emphasizing themes of family, honor, and tradition. Known for its dynamic choreography and diverse martial arts techniques, Ip Man 3 earned acclaim for its action sequences, performances, and cinematography, cementing its place in the iconic Ip Man series.
Kids from Shaolin 少林小子
Kids from Shaolin is a 1984 Hong Kong–Chinese kung fu comedy starring Jet Li and cast members from Shaolin Temple. Although not a direct sequel, it blends martial arts, comedy, and romance. Tin Lung and Yee Lung of the Dragon Family move to Phoenix Village after a gang riot. The village master distrusts them, fearing his kung fu secrets will be exposed. Meanwhile, gang leader Mr. Gang plots to rob the village. As Yee Lung and Yee Fung fall in love, both families unite and defeat the gang using a unique “whip method.” In the end, the master learns martial arts knows no boundaries.
Hapkido 合氣道
Hapkido is a 1972 Hong Kong film directed by Wong Fung and starring Mao Ying. Released in North America as Lady Kung Fu, the movie follows a group of Chinese students studying Hapkido in Japanese-occupied Korea in 1934. While abroad, they encounter conflict with local Japanese gangsters. After returning to China, tensions remain high despite multiple attempts to negotiate peace. Tragically, two students are killed. In response, a remaining student and their family take justice into their own hands and confront the Japanese mafia. The film blends martial arts with themes of resistance, sacrifice, and cultural pride during a turbulent era.
The Shaolin Temple (AI Anime) 少林寺 (AI 動畫特別版)
In the early 1980s, The Shaolin Temple revolutionized Chinese kung fu cinema with its fresh choreography and real martial arts, despite the lack of special effects. Featuring 24 elite athletes, it showcased the essence of Shaolin Kung Fu and launched Jet Li to stardom. Years later, the film was restored in 4K and selected by an AI team for animation due to its cinematic martial arts appeal. As Shaolin is considered the root of all kung fu, the animated adaptation aims to engage younger audiences, preserve cultural heritage, and promote global exchange through digital storytelling powered by AI technology.
Twilight of The Warriors 九龍城寨
Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In is a 2024 Hong Kong neo-noir martial arts crime thriller set in the lawless Kowloon Walled City. In the 1980s, rival gangs battle for control, while Chen Luojun, a mainlander who smuggled into Hong Kong, earns money boxing in underground matches. Hoping to buy an identity card, he’s tricked by a gang leader known as “Big Boss” and forced into debt. As he works within the walled city, Chen forms strong bonds with fellow residents Xinyi, Twelve Young Masters, and Fourth Young Master—discovering friendship and resilience amidst the city’s brutal underworld conflict and corruption.