Shaolin Rescuers (1979) is a Shaw Brothers kung fu film directed by Chang Cheh and starring members of the Venom Mob. This 1979 martial arts DVD features a group of fighters protecting a wounded revolutionary from imperial agents. Also Known As: Avenging Warriors of Shaolin · 7 Soldiers of Kung Fu · 賣命小子.
The Story
Life changes overnight for two fun-loving martial artists when they rescue a badly wounded anti-Qing revolutionary fleeing government pursuers. What begins as a simple act of kindness quickly places them in the path of ruthless imperial agents determined to eliminate anyone connected to the resistance.
As more skilled fighters join their cause, friendships are tested and personal rivalries are set aside in the face of a common enemy. Forced into one confrontation after another, the group must rely on courage, loyalty, and their combined martial arts skills to protect the wounded patriot and strike back against overwhelming odds.
The Martial Arts
Shaolin Rescuers features the athletic choreography that made the Venom Mob famous, combining empty-hand combat, traditional weapons, and tightly coordinated group battles. Chang Cheh balances fast-paced action with moments of humor and camaraderie, allowing each member of the ensemble to showcase a distinctive fighting style before the film builds toward an explosive finale.
Why Collectors Pick It
This film brings together the complete classic Venom Mob lineup alongside Shaw Brothers veteran Jason Pai Piao in one of Chang Cheh's most enjoyable ensemble productions. Rather than focusing on a single hero, the story gives every major character a chance to shine, making the friendships and sacrifices as memorable as the martial arts.
Historical Significance
Released during one of Shaw Brothers Studio's strongest creative periods, Shaolin Rescuers continued Chang Cheh's successful collaboration with the Venom Mob while further developing the teamwork and ensemble storytelling that became the group's trademark. Its mix of comedy, patriotism, and dynamic action helped distinguish it from many revenge-driven kung fu films of the late 1970s.
International & Alternate Titles
International English titleShaolin Rescuers
Alternate English titleAvenging Warriors of Shaolin
Home video title7 Soldiers of Kung Fu
Original Traditional Chinese title賣命小子
Simplified Chinese title卖命小子
Official Mandarin pinyinMài Mìng Xiǎozi
Cantonese romanizationMaai Ming Siu Ji
Film & DVD Details
DirectorChang Cheh
ProducerRun Run Shaw
ScreenplayChang Cheh, Ni Kuang
Action DirectorChang Cheh
CinematographyCho Wai-Kei
EditorChiang Hsing-Lung
StudioShaw Brothers Studio
DistributorShaw Brothers Studio
CountryHong Kong
GenreMartial Arts, Action, Drama
Martial Arts FocusShaolin Kung Fu, Team Combat, Traditional Weapons
StarringLo Meng, Philip Kwok, Lu Feng, Jason Pai Piao, Sun Chien, Chiang Sheng
FormatDVD
LanguageEnglish (Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo Dual Mono)
SubtitlesNone
RegionAll Regions
Running Time101 Minutes
Release Year1979
Carefully researched and prepared for collectors of classic martial arts cinema by ClassicKungFuMovies.com.
