Cat vs. Rat A.K.A. Heroes of the Wild • Yù Māo Sān Xì Jǐn Máo Shǔ (御貓三戲錦毛鼠) (1982)

Cat vs. Rat, also released as Heroes of the Wild, Imperial Cat vs. Brocade Rat, Yu Mao San Xi Jin Mao Shu, and Yu Mao San Hsi Chin Mao Shu, is a 1982 Shaw Brothers martial arts comedy directed by Lau Kar-leung. Originally released as 御貓三戲錦毛鼠 (Yù Māo Sān Xì Jǐn Máo Shǔ), the film stars Adam Cheng, Alexander Fu Sheng, Kara Hui, Hsiao Ho, Gordon Liu, Lau Kar-wing, and Lydia Shum. Inspired by the classic Chinese novel The Seven Heroes and Five Gallants, this fan-favorite Shaw Brothers adventure blends spectacular kung fu, playful comedy, swordsmanship, and traditional Chinese storytelling. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors who value accurate film details and hard-to-find physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

When the proud Imperial Cat, Zhan Zhao, and the fearless Brocade Rat, Bai Yutang, become bitter rivals, their constant duels create chaos throughout the martial world. Each is determined to prove his superiority, turning every encounter into an exciting display of martial arts skill and competitive pride.

Their rivalry eventually draws the attention of the Emperor and their respected martial arts master, forcing both warriors to set aside personal differences when a dangerous conspiracy threatens the Imperial Court. Honor, loyalty, and courage are put to the ultimate test as former rivals unite against a greater enemy.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

Cat vs. Rat showcases Lau Kar-leung's signature choreography with elegant swordplay, traditional southern kung fu, acrobatic hand-to-hand combat, and lighthearted comedy. Alexander Fu Sheng and Adam Cheng create an entertaining rivalry filled with energetic action, while Kara Hui, Hsiao Ho, Gordon Liu, and Lau Kar-wing provide memorable supporting performances.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors treasure Cat vs. Rat for pairing Alexander Fu Sheng and Adam Cheng in one of Shaw Brothers Studio's most entertaining martial arts comedies. Adapted from the legendary Seven Heroes and Five Gallants, the film combines outstanding choreography, memorable characters, and playful humor while featuring an exceptional cast of Shaw Brothers favorites, making it one of Lau Kar-leung's most enjoyable action-comedies.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1982, Cat vs. Rat demonstrated Lau Kar-leung's ability to combine traditional martial arts with broad comedy without sacrificing authentic kung fu. The film remains one of the best-known screen adaptations of the legendary rivalry between the Imperial Cat and the Brocade Rat and stands among Alexander Fu Sheng's final Shaw Brothers productions before his untimely passing.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Cat vs. Rat – Primary English title
  • Heroes of the Wild – Alternate English release title
  • Imperial Cat vs. Brocade Rat – Alternate English release title
  • Yu Mao San Xi Jin Mao Shu – Original Mandarin pinyin title
  • Yu Mao San Hsi Chin Mao Shu – Alternate Mandarin romanization
  • Jyu Maau Saam Hei Gam Mou Syu – Cantonese romanization
  • 御貓三戲錦毛鼠 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 御猫三戏锦毛鼠 – Simplified Chinese title
• Director: Lau Kar-leung
• Producer: Mona Fong
• Writer: Ni Kuang
• Studio: Shaw Brothers Studio
• Starring: Adam Cheng, Alexander Fu Sheng, Kara Hui, Hsiao Ho, Gordon Liu, Lau Kar-wing, Lydia Shum
• Format: DVD
• Language: Mandarin
• Subtitles: English
• Region: All Regions
• Running Time: 91 Minutes
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1982

Carefully researched and prepared for collectors of classic martial arts cinema by ClassicKungFuMovies.com.