Jet Li Returns to Action After 6 Years in Epic Martial Arts Film “Blades of the Guardians”

After six long years away from major action roles, legendary martial arts star Jet Li is officially back. The first trailer for Blades of the Guardians has been released, and it confirms that the action icon has come out of retirement for a visually stunning and highly ambitious martial arts epic.

For fans of classic kung fu cinema, this comeback is a major moment.

Jet Li’s Big-Screen Comeback

Jet Li’s last on-screen appearance was a brief cameo in Disney’s live-action Mulan. Since then, the actor stepped away from action films due to health issues and injuries built up over decades of intense physical performances.

Now, Blades of the Guardians marks his true return to the genre that made him a global legend, following classics like Once Upon a Time in China, Hero, Fearless, Fist of Legend, and The Expendables series.

Though his role is not the sole lead, his presence alone gives the film enormous weight and excitement.

A Dream Team of Martial Arts Legends

The film is directed by Yuen Woo-ping, one of the most respected martial arts choreographers in cinema history. He is known for shaping action in films like Drunken Master, Iron Monkey, The Matrix, and Kill Bill.

Joining Jet Li is an impressive cast of action stars, including:

• Wu Jing (Wolf Warrior, Meg 2: The Trench)

• Nicolas Tse (Raging Fire, New Police Story)

• Yu Rongguang (Iron Monkey, The Karate Kid)

• Tony Leung Ka-fai

• Kara Hui

Together, they form one of the strongest martial arts ensembles seen in years.

Story and Setting

Blades of the Guardians (also known as Biao Ren) is set in 607 AD, during a turbulent period in ancient China. The story focuses on elite warriors known as “escorts”, fighters hired to protect or transport high-value individuals—often those hunted by the government.

The plot follows Dao Ma, the second most wanted fugitive, who is tasked with escorting an even more dangerous criminal to the capital city of Chang’an. What follows is a journey filled with betrayal, loyalty, and explosive battles.

The film is based on a popular 2015 comic, which was later adapted into an anime series in 2023.

Trailer Promises Spectacular Action

The first trailer showcases breathtaking wire-fu action, sword fights, archery, and hand-to-hand combat choreographed with elegance and intensity. Every scene feels carefully designed, blending traditional wuxia style with modern cinematic scale.

For fans of classic martial arts cinema, the visuals alone are enough to generate excitement.

Box Office Expectations Are Huge

Industry insiders believe Blades of the Guardians could become a massive box office hit in China. Early predictions suggest it could earn over 10 billion yuan, placing it among the biggest martial arts releases in recent years.

The film is scheduled to release in Chinese theaters on February 17, 2026, timed perfectly with Chinese New Year, a prime box office window.

Why This Film Matters

Jet Li’s return is more than nostalgia. It represents the revival of large-scale, traditional martial arts cinema led by true legends of the genre. With Yuen Woo-ping directing and Wu Jing leading the action, Blades of the Guardians feels like a celebration of kung fu cinema’s past and future.