Shaolin Prince A.K.A. Death Mask of the Ninja • Shao Lin Chuan Ren (少林傳人) (1981)

Shaolin Prince, also released as Death Mask of the Ninja, Three Holy Fools, Iron Fingers of Death, and the original title Shao Lin Chuan Ren (少林傳人), is a 1982 Shaw Brothers martial arts classic directed by legendary action choreographer Tang Chia. Starring Derek Yee, Jason Pai Piao, Paul Chang Chung, Lau Wai-Ling, and Ku Feng, this exciting adventure blends traditional Shaolin kung fu, elaborate swordplay, comedy, and heroic action into one of the studio's most entertaining early-1980s productions. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors who value accurate film details and hard-to-find physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

After their royal family is massacred during a violent coup, two young princes are secretly rescued and separated to protect the royal bloodline. One child is raised within the walls of Shaolin Temple under the guidance of three eccentric monks known as the Three Holy Fools, while the other grows up far from his true heritage.

Years later, the brothers become highly skilled martial artists and unknowingly find themselves on a collision course with the ruthless conspirators responsible for their family's destruction. As hidden identities are revealed, the brothers must unite to restore justice and reclaim their rightful legacy.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

Shaolin Prince showcases Tang Chia's outstanding action choreography, combining authentic Shaolin techniques with imaginative weapons, acrobatic combat, and fast-paced swordplay. The film balances exciting martial arts action with lighthearted comedy provided by the unforgettable Three Holy Fools, creating an entertaining blend of humor and heroic adventure.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors value Shaolin Prince as one of only three films directed by legendary action choreographer Tang Chia. Outstanding performances from Derek Yee, Jason Pai Piao, and Ku Feng, combined with spectacular fight choreography and classic Shaw Brothers production values, have made it a favorite among fans of traditional Hong Kong martial arts cinema.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1982, Shaolin Prince demonstrated Tang Chia's ability to transition from acclaimed action director to feature filmmaker while preserving the spectacular choreography that helped define the Shaw Brothers style. The film remains one of the studio's most enjoyable Shaolin adventures and a memorable showcase for its talented cast.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Shaolin Prince – Primary international English title
  • Death Mask of the Ninja – Alternate English title
  • Three Holy Fools – Alternate English title
  • Iron Fingers of Death – Alternate English title
  • Iron Fingers of Shaolin – Alternate English title
  • Shao Lin Chuan Ren – Original Mandarin pinyin title
  • 少林傳人 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 少林传人 – Simplified Chinese title
• Director: Tang Chia
• Action Director: Tang Chia
• Producer: Run Run Shaw
• Studio: Shaw Brothers Studio
• Starring: Derek Yee, Jason Pai Piao, Paul Chang Chung, Lau Wai-Ling, Ku Feng
• Format: DVD
• Language: Mandarin (Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround), English (Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo – Dual Mono)
• Subtitles: English
• Running Time: 89 Minutes
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1982

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