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Stephen Chow's Latest Soccer Comedy Scores Big in Chinese Theaters

The new film from Stephen Chow, "Kung Fu Soccer," has achieved significant box office success in China, surpassing $200 million in its second week of release. Analysts now project the movie could earn close to $450 million during its entire theatrical run.

8/22/2026, 9:30:44 AM

Stephen Chow's highly anticipated new film, "Kung Fu Soccer," is enjoying a remarkable run at the Chinese box office, having officially crossed the $200 million mark. This cinematic achievement comes after just two weeks in theaters, underscoring its immense popularity with audiences. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the movie demonstrated strong momentum in its second weekend, building upon its initial debut. This sustained interest has led industry experts to revise their expectations upwards for its total earnings. Projections now indicate that "Kung Fu Soccer" is on track to conclude its theatrical exhibition with a gross revenue approaching $450 million. This figure positions it as one of the standout performers in the Chinese market this year, further solidifying Chow's status as a formidable force in filmmaking. The film is described as a follow-up to the acclaimed "Shaolin Soccer," which gained international recognition for its unique blend of martial arts, comedy, and sports themes. "Kung Fu Soccer" appears to be successfully recapturing the essence and appeal of its predecessor, delighting fans and critics alike with its distinctive style. Chow, renowned for his signature comedic touch and innovative action sequences, has a history of creating box office hits. His previous works often combine slapstick humor with impressive visual effects and martial arts choreography, a formula that has consistently resonated with moviegoers in China and beyond. The success of "Kung Fu Soccer" highlights the continued strength of the Chinese film market, particularly for locally produced blockbusters. The robust performance suggests a healthy appetite among moviegoers for high-quality, entertaining content, especially from established and beloved filmmakers like Stephen Chow.

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