HONG KONG — Hong Kong comedy legend Stephen Chow, the writer-director of the blockbuster “Kung Fu Soccer,” has revealed that the film has crossed the 2 billion yuan ($277 million) mark at the mainland Chinese box office. In a rare new interview, the reclusive filmmaker addressed the burning question on fans’ minds: will he ever act again?
Chow, 62, who has largely remained behind the camera in recent years, sat down with longtime collaborator Lam Tze-chung and producer Hu Yu’an to discuss the film’s success and his own creative future. With his characteristic deadpan humor, Chow admitted he may still be waiting for the perfect role.
“I don’t really have much of a concept about acting. I don’t know how to hit the perfect note,” Chow said, mixing Mandarin and Cantonese during the conversation. “I just act in my own way. Honestly, I don’t really know how to act.”
When pressed about a potential return to the screen, Chow replied: “It feels like maybe I am waiting for a role. And also… I really don’t know how to act, you know?”
Chow explained that his current workload behind the camera has become overwhelming, and age has taken a toll on his stamina. “It is basically impossible to write, direct, and star in a film all at once anymore. I know my own limits,” he said.
When the interviewer suggested he could slow down the pace of production and noted that his cameo in “Kung Fu Soccer” was brief—appearing only from behind—Chow retorted with a grin: “Couldn’t you tell? Even my back is full of comedic cells.”
Chow also reflected on his lifelong passion for martial arts, which began as a child after he idolized Bruce Lee. Over the years, he trained in multiple disciplines. “If I hadn’t ended up in show business, I probably would have become a Wing Chun instructor,” he said.
The box office performance of “Kung Fu Soccer,” a spiritual successor to Chow’s 2001 global hit “Shaolin Soccer,” has cemented his status as one of China’s most bankable directors. The film, which blends slapstick comedy with sports and martial arts, has drawn audiences across age groups.
Industry analysts suggest that Chow’s reluctance to act may stem from his exacting perfectionism. “He is known for demanding dozens of takes for even a single shot,” said film critic Li Wei. “If he returns to acting, it will likely be on his own terms and in a project where he feels he can truly contribute something unique.”
For now, Chow remains focused on development and producing new talent. He hinted that future projects may include mentoring young directors and exploring themes he has not yet tackled.
“Kung Fu Soccer” continues to screen in theaters across mainland China. The film is set for an international release in select markets later this year. Fans hoping to see Chow on screen again may have to wait—but as the filmmaker himself suggests, the right role could still be out there.
