A rich man's son believes himself to be the best kung fu fighter in Canton. Unfortunately, his father, anxious for his son's safety, bribes all his opponents to lose. After a humiliating defeat at the hands of an actor in a traveling theatre company, the son resolves to find a better teacher.

In 11th century China, the Emperor Renzong reigns his country poorly, neglecting state affairs while the government sinks into corruption and war rages at his borders, whose only protection left is the famous Yang clan. However, when the last man of the family falls, leaving the country open to its invaders, the clan’s formidable women take up arms to lead the army to victory and seek vengeance against corrupt officials.