A fugitive noblewoman in disguise seeks refuge. Criterion Collection Year 2002 Video Release 2002-12-10 Studio Tai Seng Genre Action MPAA Rating Not Rated Color Color Runtime 187 Animated Live-Action Full Synopsis Visionary barely begins to describe this masterpiece of Chinese cinema and martial arts moviemaking. A Touch of Zen Xia nu by King Hu depicts the journey of Yang, a fugitive noblewoman in disguise who seeks refuge in a remote, and allegedly haunted, village. The sanctuary she and her three companions find with a shy scholar is shattered when a nefarious swordsman uncovers her identity, pitting the five against legions of blade-wielding opponents. At once a wuxia film, the tale of a spiritual quest, and a study in human nature, A Touch of Zen is an unparalleled work in Hu's formidable career and an epic of the highest order, characterized by breathtaking action choreography, stunning widescreen landscapes, and innovative editing. Director King Hu Cast King Hu; Hsu Feng; Shih Chun; Bai Ying; Xue Han; Zhang Bing-yu; Cao Jian; Jia Lu-shi; Wan Zhong-shan