The comedy film “Kung Fu Women’s Soccer”, self-written and directed by Stephen Chow (Siu Master), was officially released in major theaters in Hong Kong on August 13. The film continued the mainland China’s box office success by simultaneously opening in over 60 cinemas across Hong Kong. On its first day, multiple cinema showings in different areas were quickly sold out, showcasing the strong appeal of Stephen Chow’s iconic brand in Hong Kong.
“Kung Fu Women’s Soccer”, following its massive box office success of nearly 2.3 billion RMB in mainland China and securing the top spot during the summer season, officially landed in Hong Kong theaters on August 13. Despite the absence of a Cantonese dubbed version, Hong Kong movie enthusiasts showed great enthusiasm towards the film. According to ticketing websites, over 60 cinemas throughout Hong Kong opened the film simultaneously with more than 270 screenings on the first day, with ticket prices ranging from 50 to 200 Hong Kong dollars. Prime showtimes in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui, Causeway Bay, and Central were completely sold out, while only a few morning show tickets remained in places like Kowloon Bay and Fanling.
On August 8, Stephen Chow, along with the main cast including Dilraba Dilmurat and Carina Lau, held a series of seven special ticketing events in Hong Kong. The tickets were selling out rapidly as soon as they were available for pre-sale.
The younger generation (Generation Z) audience believes that the film provides a light-hearted, exhilarating experience which is highly suitable for family viewing. The blend of action-packed sequences and soccer scenes, along with the charisma of actors like Takuya Kimura and Dilraba Dilmurat, left many moviegoers feeling uplifted and satisfied with their viewing experience.
Director Wong Jing openly praised the film as Stephen Chow’s best work in nearly a decade, stating that the action scenes rival those in “Shaolin Soccer”. Audiences appreciated the comedic performances by Dilraba Dilmurat, Zhang Xiaofei, and others, deeming the film to be filled with laughter and perfect for family entertainment.
Some Hong Kong moviegoers noticed upon entering the theater that the film did not have a Cantonese version, impacting the local humor elements. In response, producer Lin Zi Cong and Stephen Chow personally explained that due to the sudden adjustment in the film’s release schedule in Hong Kong, the production time was extremely tight. They rushed to release the film within four days, leading to the inability to promptly complete the Cantonese dubbing. The production team assured that they will gradually provide the missing Cantonese version and enhance the viewing experience.
Stephen Chow had previously publicly apologized for the delayed release of the Cantonese dubbed version. Despite the Mandarin version being a significant obstacle for many local Hong Kong moviegoers, Carina Lau’s character, “Master” in the film, maintained her Cantonese dialogue throughout. Additionally, the Hong Kong screening version also included an exclusive “Hong Kong edition limited Easter egg” featuring Stephen Chow making a cameo appearance and speaking Cantonese.
Of special note is the rare joint appearance of Stephen Chow’s mother and sister at the premiere, adding to the film’s promotion. Celebrities like Carina Lau also attended to show support, engaging in reunion and playful banter with Stephen Chow at the event.
Although the film’s promotional activities were briefly halted to mourn the late Deanie Ip, the overwhelming popularity of the premiere on August 13 instantly sparked discussions about “Kung Fu Women’s Soccer” in Hong Kong.