Shaolin Monk A.K.A. Shaolin Tamo Buddhist Monk • 少林達摩祖師 (1977)

Shaolin Monk (1977), also released as Shaolin Tamo Buddhist Monk, Fighting of Shaolin Monks, Kung Fu Exorcist, Killer Priest, and Shao Lin Da Mo Zu Shi (少林達摩祖師 / 少林达摩祖师), is a classic Hong Kong Kung Fu Movie directed by Lam Fook-dei. Starring Chan Sing, Chia Ling, Phillip Ko Fei, Lung Man-hong, Chan Lui, and Yuen Chuen, this distinctive martial arts film combines the legendary story of Bodhidharma with Shaolin tradition, Buddhist teachings, traditional kung fu, and classic fight action. For collectors searching for rare Kung Fu Movies from the 1970s, Shaolin Monk offers a unique look at one of the most enduring legends in martial arts cinema.

STORY OVERVIEW

Traveling from India to China, the Buddhist monk Tamo arrives at the Shaolin Temple determined to spread his teachings. His journey brings him into conflict with corrupt warlords, political forces, and dangerous enemies threatening the temple and those who follow its teachings. Through discipline, spiritual wisdom, and martial training, Tamo helps establish traditions that become closely associated with Shaolin and its legendary martial arts heritage.

MARTIAL ARTS HIGHLIGHTS

Shaolin Monk combines traditional kung fu action with the legendary story of Bodhidharma, giving this Kung Fu Movie a different focus from the revenge stories common to 1970s martial arts cinema. Chan Sing leads the action with powerful performances and traditional fighting, while Phillip Ko Fei and the supporting cast contribute memorable confrontations and classic martial arts choreography.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors appreciate Shaolin Monk for its unusual subject matter and its connection to one of the most famous legends in Chinese martial arts. Instead of relying entirely on revenge and tournament battles, the film explores the legendary origins of Shaolin tradition while still providing the training, fighting, and martial arts action expected from a classic Kung Fu Movie. Chan Sing's commanding performance makes it an especially interesting title for collectors of vintage Hong Kong cinema.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released during the golden age of Hong Kong martial arts filmmaking, Shaolin Monk reflects the enduring popularity of stories surrounding Bodhidharma and the Shaolin Temple. Although the story is rooted in legend rather than established historical fact, the film represents an important strand of classic Kung Fu Movies that helped connect martial arts cinema with Chinese religious tradition, Shaolin mythology, and the history of kung fu.

• Verified AKAs:
  • Shaolin Monk – International English title
  • Shaolin Tamo Buddhist Monk – English release title
  • Fighting of Shaolin Monks – English video title
  • Kung Fu Exorcist – U.S. theatrical title
  • Killer Priest – U.S. home video title
  • Shao Lin Da Mo Zu Shi – Mandarin Pinyin
  • 少林達摩祖師 – Traditional Chinese title
  • 少林达摩祖师 – Simplified Chinese title
• Director: Lam Fook-dei
• Starring: Chan Sing, Chia Ling, Phillip Ko Fei, Lung Man-hong, Chan Lui, Yuen Chuen
• Format: DVD
• Language: English Dubbed
• Subtitles: None
• Running Time: 91 Minutes
• Country: Hong Kong
• Release Year: 1977

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