"Invincible Swordsman," a new film adaptation of the classic wuxia novel by Jin Yong, also known as Louis Cha, is set for online release on the Chinese mainland and theatrical releases in Hong Kong and Taiwan during China's traditional Spring Festival holiday. 

Wuxia is a genre of Chinese fiction centered on martial arts heroes.

The cast and crew of "Invincible Swordsman" pose for a photo at the premiere in Beijing, Jan. 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of Wishart Media]

Directed by Luo Yiwei and written by Wong Jing, the film adapts Jin Yong's 1967 novel "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer." It stars Zhang Yuqi, Tim Huang and Sammo Hung and follows the journey of swordsman Linghu Chong, who yearns to leave the martial arts world but finds himself drawn into a confrontation with the enigmatic leader of the Demonic Sect, Dongfang Bubai, leading to a thrilling adventure.

"Invincible Swordsman" is co-produced by Wishart Media and China's leading video streaming platforms: Tencent Video, iQiyi and Youku. The film will debut online on these platforms on Jan. 28, Chinese New Year's Eve.

Lu Yang, a senior executive at Tencent Video overseeing movie content, said at the Beijing premiere on Jan. 17 that the company is committed to promoting wuxia culture and had long sought to adapt this novel.

"We couldn't find the right actor to play Dongfang Bubai," said Lu. "It wasn't until actor Zhang Yuyi joined the cast that we felt this project was finally ready to move forward."

Dongfang Bubai, literally meaning "Invincible East," is one of the greatest fictional martial arts experts of his time and the leader of his sect. He is so feared that no one dares to whisper his name. Unique among characters, he is described as having castrated himself to master the highest martial arts skills in the original novel. However, the latest adaptation changes his gender to female. This continues the legacy established by actor Brigitte Lin in the classic Hong Kong film "Swordsman 2" (1992), which paved the way for female actors to portray this iconic character. 

Zhang Yuqi's portrayal of Dongfang Bubai in "Invincible Swordsman" received positive feedback, but she revealed at the premiere that she was initially hesitant to accept the role. Ultimately, she agreed because she found the character relatable. "The original novel is complex and extensive, but the script left me with the impression that Dongfang Bubai is someone I know. She's beautiful, strong and tragic — she grew up to become who she is. She seems invincible and powerful, able to win over everyone. But she's willing to lose for the one she loves. I kept this in my heart and mind while playing her."

Executive producer and scriptwriter Wong Jing, a lifelong fan of Jin Yong and his wuxia novels since childhood, praised the brilliant contributions of legendary stylist and costume designer Shirley Chan. Chan's work vividly brought each classic character from the world of martial arts heroes to life.

A poster for "Invincible Swordsman." [Image courtesy of Wishart Media]

"Invincible Swordsman" is the latest film in the ongoing wave of adaptations of Jin Yong's novels, following titles such as "New Kung Fu Cult Master I & II" (2022) and "?akra" (2023). Beyond the Chinese mainland, the film will be released in the Hong Kong and Taiwan regions on Jan. 23 and 24, respectively. In February, it will also be progressively released in various countries and regions, including Malaysia, the United States, Canada, Russia, Indonesia and South Korea.

Zhu Weijie, the film's producer and Chairman of Wishart Media, commented: "This project represents a commitment by Wishart Media and the three major platforms to promote Chinese traditional culture, paying homage to the classics while showcasing new brilliance. Wuxia represents a unique part of Chinese culture. We aspire to share even more of China's rich cultural heritage with the world."