Blades of the Guardians (orig. title: Biao ren) is a 2026 Chinese action film directed by Yuen Wo-Ping from a screenplay by Tai-Lee Chan, Chao-Bing Su, Baimei Yu, Larry Yang, and Xu Xiangze. The film is set to be released in China on 17 February 2026.
Blades of the Guardians is a large-scale Chinese historical action film (Chinese war epic) directed by the legend Yuen Wo-Ping — a master who worked on classics such as "„Tiger and dragon“" (2000) and the trilogy "„The Matrix„", and is considered one of the most influential choreographers in martial arts cinema. The film is an adaptation of the popular comic book (manhua) by Xu Xiangre and brings together four generations of martial arts stars on screen.
The action of Blades of the Guardians Set during the Sui Dynasty, Daoma, a dangerous fugitive with a reputation as the "second most wanted criminal," accepts a dangerous mission: to escort the "most wanted fugitive" Zhi Shilang to the capital city of Chang'an through harsh deserts and conflict-torn territories. Along the way, he encounters countless enemies, political intrigue, and internal conflicts, and is joined by his adopted son Xiaoqi and a group of unlikely allies—including Shu and Yangzi Niang.
This mission is not just another escort task: it reveals deeper alliances, betrayals, and power struggles that could save or destroy an entire empire. The narrative weaves together both personal motives and broader historical and social storms that shape the fates of the characters.
Yuen Wo-Ping is an icon in action cinema, known for his exceptional ability to combine realistic stunts, harmony and artistic expression in fight scenes without relying on excessive visual effects. Under his direction Blades of the Guardians focuses on practical action—riding, close combat, weapons handling, and extensive desert treks—filmed in the harsh conditions of Xinjiang. The film combines classic Wushu elements—honor, brotherhood, personal challenge—with impressive cinematography and dynamic fight choreography that aim to transport the viewer directly into the atmosphere of the ancient Chinese jungle of warriors.
Wu Jing comes to the center of the story as Dao Ma — his performance, filled with inner strength and charisma, lends weight to the leadership and moral complexity of the character who must lead the dangerous escort mission.
Nicholas Tse introduces Diting, whose quick reactions and courage make him a key ally, and Yu Shi with Shu adding strategic nuances and fighting spirit.
Chen Lijun makes an impression like Ayuya, while Sun Yizhou in the role of Zhi Shilang, he brings sensuality to the image of the mysterious fugitive, whose dialogue with Daoma is one of the main emotional cores.
In supporting roles Qi Sha, Li Yunxiao and Tony Leung Ka-fai balance between devotion and conflict, while Jet Li in a special role brings legendary presence and wisdom to the team, contributing to the feeling of an epic meeting of generations of fighters.
Blades of the Guardians is an epic Wushu blockbuster that combines historical scope, personal drama and classic martial arts. Directed by Yuen Wo-Ping and featuring a huge international cast, the film promises a visually stunning and emotional journey through ancient China, filled with moral dilemmas, tests of trust and incredible fight scenes. It is one of the most anticipated titles of 2026 for action movie fans, wuxia genre and historical action, which aims to bring together some of the biggest names in Chinese action cinema on screen.
