How to watch

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin Movie Watch Order in the correct order

How to watch the The 36th Chamber of Shaolin movies in order

Last updated: November 14 2026

Written by: ChronoBob

The 36th Chamber of Shaolin is one of the most influential kung fu films ever made, and its two follow-ups complete a classic Shaw Brothers trilogy.

Directed by Lau Kar-leung for the legendary Shaw Brothers studio, The 36th Chamber of Shaolin stars Gordon Liu as San Te, a young man who trains through the temple's punishing chambers to fight the oppressive Manchu government. Its iconic training sequences inspired generations of filmmakers and musicians, and Liu returned for two more films that mix action with plenty of humour.

πŸ• Release Order

Here's the trilogy in release order.

  1. The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)
  2. Return to the 36th Chamber (1980)
  3. Disciples of the 36th Chamber (1985)

The sequels are loosely connected, with Gordon Liu playing a different character in the second film.

πŸ“– Story Chronology

In Return to the 36th Chamber, Liu plays a con man who impersonates San Te, while Disciples of the 36th Chamber brings San Te back to teach the rebellious folk hero Fong Sai-yuk, so the release order works as a chronology too.

  1. The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978)
  2. Return to the 36th Chamber (1980)
  3. Disciples of the 36th Chamber (1985)

Which Order Should You Choose?

Start with The 36th Chamber of Shaolin; it's essential viewing for any martial arts fan. Return to the 36th Chamber is a lighter, comedic variation that works well as a follow-up, and Disciples rounds things out with a playful tone. All three are best enjoyed in release order.

πŸ”— Related Guides

  • Drunken Master Watch OrderGuide
  • Once Upon a Time in China Watch OrderGuide
  • Ip Man Watch OrderGuide

Did we miss anything? Let us know and we'll keep this guide up to date!