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After seven years without a theatrical release, Hong Kong filmmaker Stephen Chow has teased that his long-awaited new movie, Kung Fu Soccer, could hit cinemas as early as July
Chow made the announcement in a 13-second video on Instagram, revealing that the film is currently in post-production.
"When will it be released?" a voice asks in the clip.
"I'm working hard to make it by 10 July," Chow replies.
"What if you can't make it?"
"Then it'll be 17 July."
"What if you still don't make it?"
"Well, we'll make it one day," Chow jokes.
His caption simply reads: "我加油" ("I'm working hard").
According to The Star, it has been over a year since filming wrapped.
Written and directed by Chow, Kung Fu Soccer is said to be a spiritual successor to his beloved 2001 comedy Shaolin Soccer. This time, however, the story follows a women's football team on an unlikely journey to championship glory.
The film stars Chinese actress Zhang Xiaofei, singer-actor Lay Zhang, and actress Dilraba Dilmurat. Former China national football team goalkeeper Zhao Lina and defender Li Jiayue also appear in the film, while acclaimed South Korean actor Song Kang-ho is expected to make a cameo as a referee.
Kung Fu Soccer marks Chow's first theatrical feature as director since The New King of Comedy in 2019, a remake of his 1999 hit King of Comedy.
Widely regarded as one of Hong Kong cinema's most influential filmmakers, Chow is known for blending slapstick comedy, heartfelt storytelling, and over-the-top action in blockbuster hits such as Shaolin Soccer, Kung Fu Hustle, CJ7, and The Mermaid.
Fans can expect Kung Fu Soccer to retain the martial arts-infused action that made Shaolin Soccer a cult favourite
Summing up Chow's signature style best, film distributor Encore Films managing director Joyce Lee told The Hollywood Reporter: "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?'"
A 'Kung Fu Soccer' sketch by Stephen Chow.
Image via The Hollywood Reporter