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.
Review of Budo
