This is How Movies Should Be Made

Dreadfully Boring

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

This is a must-see and one of the best documentaries - and films - of this year.

Absorbing documentary covers extensively with great detail Budo, a collective of the martial arts, the philosophy of the sword and the disciplined lifestyle that comes with it. Judo, Karate, Aikido, Naganata, Sumo, Kendo, and Zen Buddhisim are covered in "Budo:The Art of Killing". We are provided with narration by Harry J Quini who carries us through the intense, punishing training regiment trainees must endure and get an understanding of the spiritual significance of self-control and "winning over the human mind". Through the aesthetically pleasing camera work(..some of the slow motion photography is stunning), and intriguing subject matter, we see how the human body is conditioned to be a weapon through rigorous exercises pitting trainees and martial artists against each other. Seeing swords slice through rice stalks and stiff bamboo is thrilling enough, but watching a human hand slice the top off of a water bottle or a head break through stacked concrete pieces really startles as we realize that if one is in control of body he can do amazing things. Director Masayoshi Nemoto covers a lot of ground, the cultural and philosophical aspects as well as the physical and emotional tribulation trainees must overcome if he or she is to perfect Budo. The final freeze-frame of a head being severed is really the showstopper, but I think "Budo:The Art of Killing" will be worthwhile to those who are interested in how one must train, how the sword is of great importance in Budo, how the sword is made(..the precise and delicate process is quite difficult, and we see the great passion the creators put into fashioning the perfect blade), and of learning the value fighters place on life and death as it pertains to the sword. The effective use of Japanese locations only enhances the overall presentation. Could be dull to those not interested in the subject covered, though. Seeing just what the body can withstand as shoulders, hands, and heads pulverize wood, may be enough to even captivate more wary viewers.

This film is simply put, a gem. It's is a rare documentary on the most well-known of the Japanese martial arts, including Kyujutsu, Kendo, Karate, Judo, Iaido, Sumo, Naginatajutsu, Kobudo, and more. Although it is presented as a documentary, it is perhaps the most artistic expression of the genre. With it's use of Noh imagery and superb cinematography, Budo stands next to other well-known Japanese classics.Perhaps the most remarkable thing about this movie is the level and quality of the production for being an "independent" film with primarily a cult target audience. This movie is also very deliberate and careful in including a variety of schools, while preserving an impressive "who's who in Japanese martial arts" cast.If you ever wonder what Japanese martial arts are supposed be, or where it all originates, check this film out. Whether it's the super slow motion sequences of cutting, or the long and painstaking process of forging and creating the most beautiful weapon ever made, this movie is sure to impress you. You will not be disappointed.

I'm sure this was a thrilling movie in its day - but look at the year it was released. This is pre-VHS time, so you saw this in the theater or you didn't see it. It must have gained quite a bit of myth about it.By today's standards it is not only very lacking it its quality of film, but also in its content. There are hundreds of more incisive, thorough, and enlightening titles available than this. If it *is* worth it, it is only because of its vintage/cult status - you can say, "I saw it", when the old-timers start talking about the old days.A great alternative place to start would be the BBC martial arts documentary mini-series "Mind, Body, and Kick-Ass Moves". You will be a lot more entertained and informed, as compared to this movie here.Obviously the past cannot compete with the present in many respects, and if it weren't for the past there would be no present, but if you are limited on time or money, I would spend it on something else - you won't be missing much.

Probably the finest martial arts documentary I've ever seen, it does for the budo of Japan what "Pumping Iron" did for bodybuilding. The only bad thing about this movie is that it is nearly impossible to locate. I have rented it whenever the opportunity presents itself, but I believe it is still out of print and will remain so into the foreseeable future. If you can get your hands on this one let me know!