Monkey Fist and Floating Snake A.K.A. Monkey Kung Fu • 猴形拳 (1979)

Monkey Fist and Floating Snake (1979), also released as Monkey Kung Fu and originally titled 猴形拳, is a Hong Kong martial arts comedy directed by Joe Law and Mar Lo. The film stars Chan Muk-chuen, Chang Yi, Yuen Siu-tien, and Hoi Sang Lee. Combining traditional Monkey Style kung fu with comedy, acrobatics, and fast-moving fight scenes, this independent late-1970s production offers the kind of unusual martial arts action that collectors enjoy finding.

STORY OVERVIEW

A young martial artist studies under an eccentric master whose unusual Monkey Style relies on deceptive movements, agility, and unpredictable attacks. The strange-looking training may seem humorous, but the techniques prove effective when dangerous opponents threaten the master and those around him.

Forced to put his training to the test, the young fighter faces increasingly skilled opponents while learning that timing and deception can be just as important as strength. The resulting battles combine comedy with energetic traditional kung fu and build toward a spirited final confrontation.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

Monkey Fist and Floating Snake puts Monkey Style at the center of its action, with acrobatic movements, unusual fighting positions, deceptive footwork, and comic timing throughout the film. The presence of veteran performer Yuen Siu-tien adds another connection to the distinctive animal-style kung fu films that became popular during the late 1970s.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors appreciate Monkey Fist and Floating Snake for its unusual fighting style, playful tone, and energetic choreography. Rather than following a straight revenge formula, the film uses comedy and Monkey Style techniques to give its fight scenes a different character. It is a fun choice for fans of lesser-known Hong Kong kung fu films.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1979, Monkey Fist and Floating Snake arrived during the period when Hong Kong filmmakers were experimenting with increasingly comedic and acrobatic approaches to traditional kung fu. Its focus on Monkey Style places it among the many distinctive martial arts productions that helped define the era.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Monkey Fist and Floating Snake – English home video title
  • Monkey Kung Fu – Alternate English title
  • Hou Xing Quan – Mandarin pinyin
  • Hau Ying Kuen – Cantonese romanization
  • 猴形拳 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 猴形拳 – Simplified Chinese title
• Directors: Joe Law, Mar Lo
• Starring: Chan Muk-chuen, Chang Yi, Yuen Siu-tien, Hoi Sang Lee
• Format: DVD
• Language: English
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1979

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