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 Hong Kong martial arts classic produced by Shaw Brothers Studio and directed by Ho Meng Hua. Starring Chen Kuan-Tai, Ku Feng, Wang Chung, Johnny Wang Lung-Wei, and Wei Hung, this influential film 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 appreciate authentic Hong Kong martial arts cinema on 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 spreads fear throughout the martial world and leaves few who encounter it alive.

When one of the Emperor's most skilled executioners refuses to carry out another ruthless command, he becomes the Empire's next target. Hunted 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 combines 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 stages memorable action sequences built around the film's legendary bladed weapon. Swordplay, hand-to-hand combat, and inventive fight choreography create one of Shaw Brothers' most distinctive martial arts adventures.

WHY COLLECTORS PICK IT

Collectors continue to value The Flying Guillotine for introducing one of the most recognizable weapons in martial arts history. Its exciting action, memorable cast, and unique concept inspired sequels, countless imitators, and decades of influence throughout Hong Kong cinema. It remains an essential title for fans of Shaw Brothers classics and traditional kung fu films.

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Released in 1975, The Flying Guillotine became one of Shaw Brothers Studio's most successful martial arts films and helped establish the Flying Guillotine as one of cinema's most iconic fictional weapons. Its influence can still be seen throughout martial arts films, television, comics, and popular culture today.

• Verified AKAs:
  • The Flying Guillotine – International English title
  • 血滴子 – Original Traditional Chinese title
  • 血滴子 – Simplified Chinese title
  • Xuè Dī Zǐ – Official Mandarin pinyin
  • Hyut Dik Ji – Cantonese romanization
• 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.