SANSHIRO SUGATA is a work of Japanese drama notable for being the first completed feature from famed director Akira Kurosawa. Seen today it's a rather dated effort, quite slow paced, that nonetheless deserves kudos for being one of the earliest martial arts films in existence. The film charts the life and times of a fictionalised martial artist and early judo proponent. It's surprising how many elements of the film later became prevalent in martial arts cinema.
The protagonist must undergo basic training and learn to become a better person under the tutelage of a wise old master. There are duels with fierce and imposing rivals and even a tournament battle. The cast give typically understated performances, and Kurosawa's sense of visual dynamism is what makes this stand out; the final duel on the wind-swept hillside is excellent.
The protagonist must undergo basic training and learn to become a better person under the tutelage of a wise old master. There are duels with fierce and imposing rivals and even a tournament battle. The cast give typically understated performances, and Kurosawa's sense of visual dynamism is what makes this stand out; the final duel on the wind-swept hillside is excellent.