China Revives 100 Classic Kung Fu Films Using AI Technology

A $14 million initiative has been launched in China to restore 100 classic martial arts films featuring Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li. The project will utilize artificial intelligence, according to an article from Variety.

During the Shanghai International Film Festival, the Chinese Film Foundation announced the «Kung Fu Heritage» project. Films like «Fist of Fury,» «The Big Boss,» «Once Upon a Time in China,» and «Drunken Master» will undergo restoration using AI technology. The goal is to enhance both visual and audio quality while preserving the integrity of the original narratives.

The organizers described the initiative as a «long-term commitment to reviving the cultural and cinematic legacy of Chinese martial arts cinema.»

«From Bruce Lee to Jackie Chan, and from ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon’ to ‘Wolf Warrior’—these films have showcased the vitality and spirit of the Chinese people to the world. They represent our cinematic calling card globally,» stated Zhang Cilin, chairman of the Chinese Film Foundation.

At the event, the premiere of a new film titled «A Better Tomorrow: Cyber Border» took place. AI was utilized throughout the entire production process, from scriptwriting to animation modeling and rendering.

It is worth noting that in July 2024, a strike was declared in Hollywood over the use of AI.

In October, Nicolas Cage urged young actors to resist pressure from employers and to stand against the use of AI and EBDR for altering or manipulating their performances.