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.
10 Reviews
rather dated
ithearod25 September 2006
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.
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.
An obscure gem of Japanaese cinema
hbadra288517 December 2008
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.
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.
The greatest Martial Arts Documentary ever!
HighDef24p16 April 2003
For anyone interested in Japan, Japanese culture or the Martial arts, this is the film to see! Also known as 'Eternal Budo: The Art of Killing" Budo explores the world of basically every Japanese Martial Art. You really get a feel for what these master artists must go through to become true martial artists. Do a search for 'Eternal Budo' and you'll find a place to buy this remarkable film.
Fine documentary!
GOWBTW19 May 2008
The martial arts have always been my favorite. One of of them is karate. Influences like Chuck Norris and Bruce Lee made me want to get into this type of sport. Karate, kung fu, judo, aikido, and several other forms were very fascinating. My favorite part of the movie was the power-breaking. I've broken wood boards, bricks, and my favorite, ice blocks. I used trees, poles, and homemade dummies, to enhance my skills. The one segment with sumo wrestling really got me. I've seen the grueling workout they receive. The weight, the speed, and exercises is a must for these fighters. And the torture they get, I thought they had it rough. The ladies had their own kendo-like skills which is fascinating as well. Cleaning the floor looked like a ritual, which it is. Don't see any socks on these ladies. The samurai is one noble fighter and they are never forgotten in there. This documentary is fabulous. A must have for ALL Martial Arts buffs! 5 stars!
Imagine "Kung-Fu" in a documentary.
burgerific13 July 2000
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!
An Artful Documentary
failedscreenwriter14 November 2001
This movie should demonstrate that all documentaries don't have to be stuffy cinema-verite stuff. Very informative for anyone interested in Japanese martial arts, the various arts are profiled with the artistry of a Kurosawa film. Particularly interesting is the entry on Aikido, an art seldom glimpsed in the States except by the initiated. I have been trying to acquire this movie ever since I saw it in my Aikido class nearly 15 years ago.
Over the top fun
jellopuke22 January 2019
Sure there's some hyperbole here, but this is a great look at when martial arts were still mysterious and unknown. You'll see some badass stuff and here lots of talk about killing power. A touch cheesy, but never dull!
This is a documentary style movie.
player-1624 July 1999
I viewed this movie many years ago ~ but to date I have been unable to get a copy due to it now being out of production.
The film deals with the various Japanese Martial Arts collectively known as Budo ~ finishing with the Katana (Japanese Sword) and it's awesome power.
If the Movie does not grab you, the last few frames will !!!
The film deals with the various Japanese Martial Arts collectively known as Budo ~ finishing with the Katana (Japanese Sword) and it's awesome power.
If the Movie does not grab you, the last few frames will !!!
Budo: The Art of Killing
blinddogd27 March 2008
Warning: Spoilers
I have a black belt in several of the martial arts discussed in this entertaining movie of Japan's Martial Arts. Overall, it is very close to accurate and has stunning photography, but it also contains many inaccurate "flaws", including the title. Budo is not the "Art of Killing" but the spiritual practice of the military arts. "Bujitsu" is the art of killing (thus the difference in "Do" and "Jitsu"). A lot of the facts presented are for dramatic effect and are not substantiated by many of the modern martial masters.
The British often mistranslated many of the martial arts projects done from Japanese to English because the translators speak Japanese, but not the Japanese language of the martial arts. Even many everyday Japanese people don't fully understand some of the terms used because it is a technical language used for a specific purpose (i.e.: Computer terms are in English, but many of us don't understand them because of their technical nature).
That being said, it is a very good source of history and a basic introduction to Budo. We have this movie in our dojo library, but we admonish students that it is NOT the "Bible of Budo", just a brief summary. I do highly recommend watching this movie as it displays some of the greatest living masters of the arts performing unbelievable feats of skill.
The British often mistranslated many of the martial arts projects done from Japanese to English because the translators speak Japanese, but not the Japanese language of the martial arts. Even many everyday Japanese people don't fully understand some of the terms used because it is a technical language used for a specific purpose (i.e.: Computer terms are in English, but many of us don't understand them because of their technical nature).
That being said, it is a very good source of history and a basic introduction to Budo. We have this movie in our dojo library, but we admonish students that it is NOT the "Bible of Budo", just a brief summary. I do highly recommend watching this movie as it displays some of the greatest living masters of the arts performing unbelievable feats of skill.
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