Product Description

Filmed entirely in Japan, BUDO:THE ART OF KILLING is a highly acclaimed docu-drama and a favorite of martial arts practitioners and fans alike. Highlighting the various techniques of "Budo" (Karate, Judo, Aikido, etc.), this action-packed film is a visual feast exploring the spiritual and historical traditions, training and techniques of this specialized form of martial arts. Synapse is proud to present this critically acclaimed film in a newly re-mastered version transferred from original vault materials. A must-see even for fans of Japanese history, BUDO:THE ART OF KILLING is "powerful and frequently amazing… stuns the beholder." (VARIETY)

EXTRAS:
- New Windowboxed Digital Transfer from Archival Vault Materials in the Original Filmed Aspect Ratio of 1.33:1
- Original Theatrical Trailer
- Original Press Kit Still Gallery
- Liner Notes
- Eye-Catching Foil Cover Artwork

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #13933 in DVD
• Released on: 2005-01-25
• Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)
• Aspect ratio: 1.33:1
• Formats: Color, Dolby, DVD, Original recording remastered, NTSC
• Original language: Japanese
• Number of discs: 1
• Running time: 90 minutes

The Miami Herald
"A tribute to mastery over both the mind and body… Immensely entertaining…"

The Tallahassee Democrat
"… it’s remarkably beautiful and well-made, with carefully fabulous film editing."

Customer Reviews

one of the best martial arts documentaries I've ever seen
The traditional Jappanese martial arts are discussed in this film. Karate, Judo, Kendo, Naginata, Aikido, Sumo as well as the traditional weapons are featured such as the sword, the nunchaku, the staff, the three section staff and the sai. The sound track and filmography are excellent. I was particularly impressed at how the slow motion footage showed some of the most dynamic throws of Judo.

Athough the traditional Jappanese martial arts are given fair treatment, it focuses on the ideals and philosophy of the Samurai Warrior (Budo).

Classic documentary
This documentary was filmed in the late 1970's, in Japan, and shows off most Japanese martial arts. Many well known martial arts masters are featured including:

Gozo Shioda (Aikido)
Takamiyama (Sumo)
Taizaburo Nakamura (Iaido)
Sadaharu Fujimoto (Karate)
Teruo Hayashi (Okinawa Kobudo)

There are also many other Judo, Kendo, Naginata and Samarai sword masters featured. The film takes place in Dojos and outdoors and shows off some of Japan's natural beauty very well. The film also covers some historical areas and a certain amount of the philosophy behind martial arts. What it shows best of all is the dedication and skill required to become skillful in any of these arts. This is an essential purchase for the enthusiatic martial arts student.

A Must See for any Martial Artist
This is a classic movie from Japan that my martial arts instructor has hauled out on a yearly basis to show his students. After many repetitions, the VHS tape was very worn, so I was really pleased to see this finally available on DVD.

It is rivetting from beginning to end. Beautiful scenery, and video of several true masters of the martial arts in Japan.