A Touch of Zen (1970)
Kernel Score: 87% · 220 ratings · Rated NR
Genres: Action, Adventure, Fantasy
Released: 1970-07-10
Runtime: 180 minutes
Where to watch A Touch of Zen
- Stream: The Criterion Channel
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Gu Sheng-zhai, an artist in his early 30s, still lives with his mother, but he is suddenly shaken by the arrival of Yang Hui-zhen, a mysterious princess on the run. Yang brings Gu into her circle of protectors, including a nameless monk whose spiritual guidance transforms him into a valiant fighter.
A Touch of Zen parents' guide: ages 11+
Parents need to know that this classic wuxia martial arts film features stylized sword-fighting action typical of the genre.
- Violence & scariness: Moderate — Contains stylized wuxia martial arts combat and sword fighting throughout.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official NR rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like A Touch of Zen
If you liked A Touch of Zen, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Hero (2002) — 85%
- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021) — 86%
- House of Flying Daggers (2004) — 82%
- Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms (2023) — 78%
- Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) — 85%
- Blades of the Guardians (2026) — 96%
- Kung Fu Hustle (2004) — 87%
- Vermiglio (2024) — 79%
Director
King Hu
Cast
- Hsu Feng as Yang Hui-zhen
- Shih Chun as Gu Sheng-zhai
- Pai Ying as General Shi Wen-qiao
- Tien Peng as Ouyang Nian
- Roy Chiao as Abbot Hui-yuan
- Tsao Chien as Magistrate Xu Zheng-qing
- Miao Tian as Nie Qiu (Men Da's Advisor)
- Melvin Chang Yun-Wen as Tao Lung
- Hsueh Han as General Lu Ding-an
- Han Ying-Chieh as Chief Commander Xu Xian-chun
A Touch of Zen FAQ
Is A Touch of Zen good?
A Touch of Zen has an 87% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 220 audience ratings.
Where can I watch A Touch of Zen?
In the US you can stream A Touch of Zen on The Criterion Channel and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is A Touch of Zen OK for kids?
A Touch of Zen is rated NR. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 11+. Parents need to know that this classic wuxia martial arts film features stylized sword-fighting action typical of the genre.
What movies are like A Touch of Zen?
If you liked A Touch of Zen, try Hero, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, House of Flying Daggers and Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms.