Heaven and Hell A.K.A. Shaolin Hellgate • Di San Lei Da Dou (第三類打鬥) (1980)

Heaven and Hell, also released as Shaolin Hellgate, Heaven and Hell Gate, and Di San Lei Da Dou, is a 1980 fantasy martial arts adventure from Shaw Brothers Studio directed by legendary filmmaker Chang Cheh. Originally released as 第三類打鬥 (Di San Lei Da Dou), the film stars David Chiang, Alexander Fu Sheng, Li Yi-Min, Li Ngai-Man, Philip Kwok, Lu Feng, Chiang Sheng, Sun Chien, Lo Mang, and Wei Pai. Blending martial arts with Chinese mythology, Buddhist folklore, supernatural creatures, and imaginative fantasy, this unique Shaw Brothers production remains one of the studio's most unusual action spectacles. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors who value accurate film details and hard-to-find physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

After violating the laws of Heaven, a powerful warrior is cast into the underworld where he must overcome impossible trials before earning redemption. His journey takes him through dangerous realms filled with demons, supernatural guardians, and mythical creatures unlike anything found in traditional kung fu adventures.

Joining forces with legendary martial artists, he battles the rulers of Hell and powerful supernatural enemies in an epic struggle where the balance between Heaven, Earth, and the underworld hangs in the balance. Every challenge tests his courage, honor, and martial arts skill as he fights for redemption and the fate of mankind.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

Heaven and Hell combines traditional Shaw Brothers kung fu with elaborate fantasy action, supernatural combat, weapons battles, acrobatic choreography, and imaginative visual effects. Chang Cheh's direction brings together an all-star cast, including members of the legendary Venom Mob, to create one of the studio's most ambitious fantasy adventures.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors seek out Heaven and Hell because it stands apart from nearly every other Shaw Brothers production. Combining Chinese mythology, Buddhist folklore, demons, monsters, and spectacular martial arts with an incredible cast led by David Chiang, Alexander Fu Sheng, and the Venom Mob, the film has become a cult favorite among fans of fantasy kung fu cinema.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1980, Heaven and Hell showcased Chang Cheh's willingness to experiment beyond traditional wuxia and kung fu stories by embracing large-scale fantasy storytelling. Today it remains one of the most imaginative and visually distinctive productions ever released by Shaw Brothers Studio.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Heaven and Hell – Primary English title
  • Shaolin Hellgate – Alternate English home video title
  • Heaven and Hell Gate – Alternate English release title
  • Di San Lei Da Dou – Original Mandarin pinyin title
  • Dai Saam Leoi Da Dou – Cantonese romanization
  • 第三類打鬥 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 第三类打斗 – Simplified Chinese title
• Director: Chang Cheh
• Studio: Shaw Brothers Studio
• Starring: David Chiang, Alexander Fu Sheng, Li Yi-Min, Li Ngai-Man, Philip Kwok, Lu Feng, Chiang Sheng, Sun Chien, Lo Mang, Wei Pai
• Format: DVD
• Language: English
• Subtitles: English
• Running Time: 88 Minutes
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1980

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