The Shaolin Monastery has long been a symbol of martial arts mastery, discipline, and spiritual enlightenment. This curated list of films delves into the rich tapestry of Shaolin's history, showcasing the legendary kung fu techniques, the monks' way of life, and the dramatic tales of heroism and redemption. Whether you're a martial arts aficionado or simply seeking cinematic adventures, these films provide a window into the enduring legacy of Shaolin.

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)
Description: A classic in the martial arts genre, this film follows a young man who, after witnessing his family's murder, trains in the 35 chambers of Shaolin to master kung fu and seek justice.
Fact: The film's training sequences have become iconic, influencing numerous martial arts films and even video games.


Shaolin Temple (1982)
Description: This film is often credited with sparking the kung fu craze in the West. It tells the story of a young man who seeks refuge in the Shaolin Temple to learn kung fu and avenge his family's death.
Fact: Jet Li made his film debut in this movie, which was also one of the first Chinese films to be shot on location at the actual Shaolin Monastery.


Shaolin (2011)
Description: Set during the warlord era of China, this film showcases the Shaolin monks' struggle to protect their temple from a ruthless general, highlighting themes of peace, honor, and martial prowess.
Fact: The film features an impressive cast, including Jackie Chan, Andy Lau, and Nicholas Tse, and was a major box office success in China.


Shaolin Prince (1982)
Description: This film explores the life of a Shaolin monk who must navigate through political intrigue and personal vendettas while upholding the monastery's principles.
Fact: It's one of the lesser-known films in the Shaolin series but offers a unique take on the Shaolin narrative.


The Shaolin Avengers (1976)
Description: A tale of revenge and justice, where Shaolin disciples seek to avenge their master's death, showcasing the depth of Shaolin martial arts and philosophy.
Fact: The film features intricate fight choreography, emphasizing the spiritual and moral aspects of Shaolin teachings.


Shaolin Mantis (1978)
Description: This film focuses on the Mantis style of kung fu, with a storyline revolving around a young man's journey to master this unique Shaolin technique.
Fact: It's one of the few films that delves into the specifics of different Shaolin fighting styles.


Shaolin Wooden Men (1976)
Description: A young Shaolin monk must pass through a series of wooden men to prove his worth, showcasing the grueling training methods of the Shaolin Temple.
Fact: The film features elaborate training sequences that have become iconic in martial arts cinema.


Shaolin Rescuers (1979)
Description: This film follows a group of Shaolin monks who must rescue their kidnapped master, highlighting the brotherhood and loyalty among Shaolin disciples.
Fact: It's known for its blend of action, humor, and the portrayal of Shaolin camaraderie.


Shaolin Kung Fu Mystagogue (1976)
Description: A tale of a Shaolin monk who must use his kung fu skills to protect his temple from invaders, emphasizing the mystical aspects of Shaolin training.
Fact: The film explores the spiritual side of Shaolin martial arts, often overlooked in other movies.


Shaolin and Wu Tang (1983)
Description: This film pits the Shaolin and Wu Tang martial arts styles against each other, showcasing the rivalry and eventual unity between these two legendary schools.
Fact: It features a rare collaboration between Gordon Liu and Alexander Fu Sheng, two icons of martial arts cinema.
