To Kill with Intrigue is a 1977 martial arts film directed by Lo Wei, featuring popular Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan in a supporting role. The film tells the story of Cao Le (played by Hsu Feng), the pampered and arrogant young master of the Cao family, one of the most powerful clans in ancient China. Cao Le is infatuated with a beautiful and virtuous woman named Pai Li-ya (played by Nora Miao), who is also pregnant with his child.
However, things take a deadly turn when a group of bandits led by the ruthless Ma Teng (played by James Tien) and his henchman (played by Jackie Chan) attack the Cao castle and demand ransom money. Cao Le's father, the clan leader, is willing to pay the ransom, but Cao Le refuses to abandon his pregnant lover and stands up to the bandits, challenging them to a fight.
Realizing that Cao Le's defiance could lead to the death of his entire family, Cao's chief advisor orders him to send Pai Li-ya away secretly, hoping to buy time for a rescue mission. Cao Le reluctantly agrees and watches as Pai Li-ya is escorted out of the castle under the cover of darkness, not knowing if he will ever see her again.
From then on, the film follows the intertwined fates of Cao Le, Pai Li-ya, and Ma Teng in a series of thrilling martial arts battles and subterfuges. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that there are hidden agendas and betrayals on all sides, and that not everyone is what they seem. Cao Le must use all his wits and skills to protect his loved ones and avenge his family's honor, even if it means sacrificing his own life.