The Crippled Masters (1979) Two men who have been crippled by their martial arts master undergo rigorous training and overcome challenges by focusing on their strengths. "The Crippled Masters" is a classic martial arts film released in 1979 under the original title of, "Tiān cán dì quē." It would later be released in the United States in 1982. Directed by Joe Law, the film tells the story of two martial artists who overcome physical disabilities to become skilled fighters.