It Takes a Thief (1979)

Overview

Bandit Chao investigates the theft of the Tianyi Holy Water from the Shengshui Palace and discovers that his friend Nangongyi, the leader of the Beggar Clan, and the monk Wuchin are involved and want him dead. Meanwhile, Chao's three female confidantes suddenly disappear, prompting him to search for them in the country of Yanyu. However, he becomes embroiled in a political coup there, masterminded by Wuchin disguised as another and his mother, Golden Bodhisattva. Chao confronts them, returns to the Central Plains, and is ambushed by Shuimu, the head of the Shengshui Palace, who wants to kill him. Chao sneaks into the palace and overhears Shang Yan, a disciple of the palace, reveal the truth about how Shuimu framed him to cover up a secret. The three engage in a life-and-death battle.