The true story of an incredible journey and the master-apprentice relationship. Moving and inspiring.

This is the extraordinary account of a “magical” but also very real encounter between a young boy and a martial arts teacher. Their meeting becomes the starting point of a life studded with dramatic fights, spiritual enlightenment, friendship and betrayal, victories and defeats.

At the end of the sixties in old Genoa an Italian child meets an old Chinese man working as a carpenter. Behind his craft, the man hides a life of conflict, escapes and mystery. Sensing little Paolo’s determination and talent, he subjects him to arduous training to temper his character and teach him the path to inner balance. Still a young man, Paolo travels to China, a country then still very much closed off to Westerners. There he will overcome demanding trials, face battles in which he will risk his life, and overcome tough physical and spiritual tests. Young Paolo will also gain amazing experiences, forge invaluable friendships, and eventually become one of the best-known martial arts teachers today.

Paolo Cangelosi
Paolo Cangelosi is very well renowned in the world of martial arts. The founder of one of the most prestigious martial arts academies in the world, he has tens of thousands of fans and is one of the most respected and influential teachers in the world today.

Nathalie Tocci
Nathalie Tocci is a student of Kung Fu. She is also the director of the Institute of International Affairs, honorary professor of the University of Tubinga, Special Advisor to the High Representative of the EU, and an independent advisor to energy company Eni.