The New Shaolin Boxers A.K.A. Grand Master of Death • 蔡李佛小子 (1976)

The New Shaolin Boxers (1976), Also Known As: Grand Master of Death · The Choy Lay Fat Kid · Demon Fists of Kung Fu · Grand Master of Kung Fu · Silly Kid · 蔡李佛小子, stars Alexander Fu Sheng as Zhong Jian, a hotheaded carriage driver who stands up to a gang terrorizing his town. Directed by Chang Cheh and Wu Ma, this 1976 Shaw Brothers martial arts film features Jenny Tseng, Johnny Wang Lung-Wei, Leung Kar-Yan, and Phillip Kwok, with a rare screen focus on the southern Chinese Choy Lay Fut kung fu system.

The Story

Zhong Jian (Alexander Fu Sheng) is a spirited carriage driver who intervenes when a young woman (Jenny Tseng) is harassed by a street thug. His courage earns the anger of the local gang, and his repeated clashes with its members cost him his job and strain his relationship with his neighbors.

When the gang's ruthless leader Feng Tian-Shan (Johnny Wang Lung-Wei) turns up the violence, Zhong Jian seeks advanced instruction in Choy Lay Fut. The training gives him the skills to confront the men who have terrorized his community, but revenge comes at a terrible price.

The Martial Arts

The New Shaolin Boxers showcases the powerful Choy Lay Fut style through rapid combinations, swinging strikes, training sequences, and traditional kung fu choreography. Alexander Fu Sheng delivers an energetic performance, while Leung Kar-Yan, Phillip Kwok, and Johnny Wang Lung-Wei provide memorable opponents throughout the film.

Why Collectors Pick It

The New Shaolin Boxers remains one of Alexander Fu Sheng's standout Shaw Brothers films. Collectors appreciate its authentic martial arts focus, memorable training scenes, strong cast, and exciting fights. Its emphasis on Choy Lay Fut also makes it an especially interesting title for fans of traditional Chinese kung fu styles.

Historical Significance

Released in 1976 during the height of the Shaw Brothers martial arts boom, The New Shaolin Boxers helped bring Choy Lay Fut to a wider international audience. The film also represents the important collaboration between Chang Cheh and the young martial arts stars who would become major figures in Hong Kong kung fu cinema.

International & Alternate Titles

Film & DVD Details

DVD Specifications