Stephen Chow’s latest film, "Kungfu Soccerette," draws inspiration from his childhood experiences, according to Sichuan Guancha. While promoting the movie in Sichuan, China, Chow explained his primary criteria for designing action sequences: they must be novel, visually stimulating, and appealing to children. His greatest satisfaction comes from seeing young audiences laugh joyfully while watching his films.

Chow believes that if children enjoy a film, adults will also watch attentively, recalling their own childhood feelings and imagination. At 64 years old, he describes himself as "childlike," admitting many of his thoughts are "too childish."

Stephen Chow promotes his film in Sichuan on 13/7. *Photo: Weibo*

"Kungfu Soccerette" centers on an Emei women's soccer team overcoming internal conflicts and psychological barriers to compete in an international tournament. Released on 11/7, the film has already grossed 650 million yuan (over 95 million USD).

Reviewer Feng Tu Yu garnered thousands of likes for his review of "Kungfu Soccerette," describing it not as an award-winning film but more like "a massage machine that relaxes you for 90 minutes, requiring no thought." While acknowledging its imperfections and some recycled elements from Chow's previous works, the film effectively makes viewers laugh out loud. Feng Tu Yu concluded, "Ultimately, in the adult world, pure joy is rare. A film that can make you forget your worries and laugh heartily is worth the watch."

Stephen Chow jumps up while posing with Zhao Li Na, the 1.88 m tall goalkeeper who plays a supporting role in "Kungfu Soccerette". *Video: Weibo*

Stephen Chow grew up in a Hong Kong slum. At seven years old, his parents divorced, and he lived with his mother and sisters. After finishing junior high school, he dropped out to work.

Many images and plot points in Chow’s later films are based on his childhood memories. For instance, almost every eating scene in his works features a rooster-printed bowl, the same type his mother used. Scenes of men and women arguing are also inspired by his parents' frequent quarrels and fights.

Lead actress Dilraba Dilmurat holds a rooster bowl on the "Kungfu Soccerette" poster. *Photo: Weibo*

In the early 1980s, Stephen Chow persuaded his close friend Tony Leung to join a TVB acting class. To entice Leung, Chow painted a glamorous, prosperous future. However, during the audition, Tony Leung passed, while Stephen Chow failed. He had to audition several more times before being accepted, starting his career with extra roles in TVB films.

Stephen Chow plays soccer on the set of "Kungfu Soccerette". *Video: Weibo*

Stephen Chow's career flourished in the 1990s with a series of comedic films, including "God of Gamblers," "All for the Winner," "Fight Back to School," and "Flirting Scholar." In 2008, after starring in "CJ7," Chow stopped acting to focus on directing and producing.

The star maintains a private personal life, often wearing a mask when out in public, even while directing actors on set. He only removes his mask when meeting audiences at film promotions.