Get together all of the materials you need to make your movie. Make sure that your script is polished and that you have all of the people you want working on the movie all set to work. You will need actors who are willing to work in kung fu fight scenes, and people to work the filming equipment and editing programs.
Scout filming locations. You may need to create some sets, or alter existing locations to fit each scene of your script. Get permission to film in all locations, and make sure that any locations you will be filming fight stunts in are safe enough for your actors. Make a detailed list of all props, makeup and costumes that are needed for each scene in your script and procure them, either by making them yourself, commissioning them or buying them ready-made from stores.
Choreograph all of your action sequences in the movie. In many kung fu movies, fight sequences are choreographed with 50 to 70 moves in each. Determine first how much your actors can handle, and work from there. You may want to make storyboard drawings of these scenes, or of every scene in the movie, so that you know what camera angles and actions need to go together.
Run through preliminary rehearsals of all scenes with your actors. Make sure that they become comfortable with all of the kung fu fighting sequences and any other action moments. Have your actors practice in costume, so that you can deal with any problems early.
Run through full rehearsals to let your cast practice the dialogue and staging. Have your crew present during these rehearsals to practice the lighting and camera work that needs to be done in each scene. You may want to hold some rehearsals on location, so that you can make the lighting and staging work best.
Organize your filming schedule so that it makes the most sense. You want to spend as little time as possible returning to locations, so make sure that the schedule is convenient for your cast and crew. You may also want to factor in any delay possibilities, such as an injury to one of your kung fu actors. Remember that you do not have to film chronologically.
Organize all of your props, set pieces and costumes for each filming date. Make sure that you have duplicates of any props and costumes that will be used in a kung fu fighting sequence, as they can be accidentally damaged. Schedule enough time on each date for setting up the scenes, dressing the actors, doing a run-through and testing the equipment.
Film each scene of your kung fu movie, just as you rehearsed. Make sure that you have a variety of takes to choose from in each scene, particularly during your action and stunt scenes. You will want to have as many options as possible for hiding the stuntwork and making the kung fu fighting look realistic. Use your choreography to its fullest.
Process and edit the movie scenes yourself, using one of the many film editing programs available, or have your editor work on the movie. You will want to choose the best takes for each shot, and make sure the scenes flow smoothly together in chronological order. Have your script available so that you can double-check the order. Pay special attention to the fight sequences. You will need to cut those 50 to 70 moves in each scene together seamlessly, but also make them visually interesting for the audience.
Re-shoot any sequences for which the previous material was unusable. This may come up with your action sequences in particular, due to the wide possibility of error. Edit these scenes into your film.
Edit the sound tracks, adding in any special sound effects, enhancing the dialogue and adding in music. If necessary, have your actors re-record some of their lines. This may especially be necessary during the fight sequences, when actors may be out of breath or far from the microphone. You may also wish to record your own sound effects and musical cues, rather than using available free-use sound bits. For martial arts films, you will want to have a variety of fighting sound effects such as kicking or punching noises, glass breaking and scuffling. Clean up all of the sound tracks.
Grade the colors in your film, using your film editing program. Use colors to set the mood of each scene. For example, a dramatic nighttime kung fu sequence may be best colored by enhancing the blues in the scene, or a daytime romantic scene may be improved by enhancing the warm colors in the scene. At this point, be sure to clean up all visual aspects of the film.
Put in all text, including credits and title screen. Make all finishing touches, then transfer your finished kung fu film to DVD. If you wish to market your film, appeal to the martial arts fanbase by advertising on Internet communities and at fan events. Create a buzz by posting clips on video sites like Youtube.Com and by spreading word by mouth.