Lau Kar-Leung returns to the plot line from "The 36th Chamber of Shaolin" in "Disciples of the 36th Chamber," as Gordon Liu reprises his role as Monk San Te and his training of students in Shaolin martial arts. Although this is the second sequel to "The 36th Chamber of Shaolin," it directly follows the original film, whereas the first sequel, "Return to the 36th Chamber," was a deviation, with Gordon Liu assuming the role of another character altogether.

"Disciples of the 36th Chamber" loosely centers on Hsiao Ho as legendary folk hero Fong Sai Yuk. Fong ends up ruffling the feathers of the Manchu leaders. So, Fong's mother, played by the beautiful and lithe Lilly Li, places him in the Shaolin Temple as a refuge from the Manchu. Monk San Te is in charge of Fong's training, but is put off by Fong's arrogance and undisciplined ways, due to his superior martial arts skills, taught to him by his mother. The Manchu are upset over Shaolin Temple as a haven for rebels. The Manchu governor strokes Fong's ego in a secret bid to take out the temple.

Hsiao Ho does a marvelous take on Fong Sai Yuk as a rebellious youth full of spunky brio. Lau Kar-Leung keeps the pace lively and works his magic on some truly athletic and vibrant martial arts choreography. "Disciples of the 36th Chamber" is a delightful continuation of the story established in "The 36th Chamber of Shaolin," and rousing entertainment.