The Flying Guillotine A.K.A. Xue Di Zi • 血滴子 (1975)

The Flying Guillotine, also released as Xue Di Zi (血滴子), is a 1975 Shaw Brothers martial arts classic directed by Ho Meng Hua. Starring Chen Kuan-Tai, Ku Feng, Wang Chung, Johnny Wang Lung-Wei, and Wei Hung, this influential kung fu classic introduced one of the most infamous weapons in martial arts cinema. Combining historical adventure, fast-paced action, and imaginative weapon combat, it remains one of Shaw Brothers Studio's most recognizable productions. Available from ClassicKungFuMovies.com for collectors who value accurate film details and hard-to-find physical media.

STORY OVERVIEW

During the Qing Dynasty, an elite corps of assassins serves the Emperor using a terrifying secret weapon known as the Flying Guillotine. Designed to eliminate enemies with deadly precision, the mysterious weapon inspires fear throughout the martial world and leaves few who encounter it alive.

When one of the Emperor's most skilled executioners refuses to obey another ruthless command, he becomes the Empire's next target. Pursued by the very assassins he once fought beside, he must rely on his martial arts skills, courage, and determination to survive against the deadly Flying Guillotine and the comrades who know his every move.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

The Flying Guillotine blends traditional kung fu with imaginative weapon choreography unlike anything audiences had seen before. Chen Kuan-Tai delivers a commanding performance as the hunted warrior, while Ho Meng Hua creates memorable action sequences built around the film's legendary bladed weapon. The result is a unique combination of swordplay, hand-to-hand combat, and inventive martial arts spectacle.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors consider The Flying Guillotine one of Shaw Brothers Studio's most influential martial arts films. Its unforgettable weapon design, strong cast, and exciting action helped make it an international cult favorite, inspiring sequels, imitators, and countless references throughout Hong Kong cinema and beyond. It remains an essential title for fans of classic kung fu and wuxia filmmaking.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1975, The Flying Guillotine introduced one of the most iconic fictional weapons in martial arts cinema. The film became a major international success and helped expand Shaw Brothers' worldwide reputation during the golden age of Hong Kong action films. Decades later, the Flying Guillotine continues to be recognized as one of the genre's most enduring symbols.

• Verified AKAs:
  • The Flying Guillotine – Primary international English title
  • Xue Di Zi – Original Mandarin pinyin title
  • 血滴子 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 血滴子 – Simplified Chinese title
• Director: Ho Meng Hua
• Producer: Run Run Shaw
• Screenplay: Ni Kuang
• Studio: Shaw Brothers Studio
• Starring: Chen Kuan-Tai, Ku Feng, Wang Chung, Johnny Wang Lung-Wei, Wei Hung
• Format: DVD
• Language: English
• Region: All Regions
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1975

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