Customer Reviews

Kodokan Judo - with Master Technician Kyuzo Mifune

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

Be prepared to be slightly disappointed with the quality of the images on this video. As an addition to one's judo video library, and as an historical record of Mifune-sensei in action, this is probably worth having if for no other reason than to have the opportunity to see Mifune move. However, I again caution you that the quality of the old B&W footage is poor at best. In addition, my copy took 6 or 7 weeks to arrive it was advertised as being readily available. So, buyer beware.

I first saw this material 40 years ago on 16mm film. Among the judoka I know, it's known as the "pruning the cherry tree" film. It's wonderful footage and so it's a real shame that the DVD will not play reliably. The first time I played it, it seemed to "stutter" a number of times during the 2 hrs. The second time several weeks later it wouldn't play more than a few seconds! I bought the Jigoro Kano DVD at the same time and it has the same problem. They are both produced by the same company and I suspect the disks physical specs. are borderline. these are the only DVDs in my collection with this problem.

Do not purchase unless £33 is an acceptable price to pay for an illegal copy, (unless rising sun productions produce their products on DVD-R 4 speed discs with printed labels and case covers). I will know the answer after making contact with them.

This DVD contains footage the last 10th dan ever. The footage is about 2 hours long and all of this footage is of Mifune himself, he is seen taking a class, of adults and children, demonstrating all the major throws (gokyo). Mifune himself performing Kata which include the Shinken Shobu no Kata (Kime no Kata), the Itsitsu no Kata (Five Forms) and the Kodokan Goshin Jutsu. Mifune is also seen supervising students performing the Nage no Kata, he then takes part in a randori session with students of about 4th dan and above. This DVD is in my opinion a must for any serious Judoka, the footage is in black and white throughout with a slightly out of synch commentary, but this in no way detracts from the high quality content. A definite must have for any serious Judo collector or enthusiast.

"Kodokan Judo" is a must have video for any martial artist who is interested in seeing flawless technique. I have over thirty years of training as a martial artist and I have never seen a finer example of technical skill as Kyuzo Mifune sensei. While this is a film on judo, any martial artist who is interested in throwing or grappling will find this an invaluable resource. The film quality of this video is not up to today's standards, having been filmed in black and white, and is at times a bit grainy. However, the material as it is presented exceeds greatly most of what passes for judo today. I strongly recommend this video to all judoka, aikidoka, and any one else who needs a better understanding of the throwing and grappling arts.

Literally I can only subscribe the things Mr. Jones formerly wrote in his comment. This DVD is a great opportunity to see, what perfect skill is worthwhile in Judo. Today there are 2 judokas alive holding a 10th dan ranking, but outside Japan. Within the small circle of 10th dan holders in judo's history, Mifune Sensei was the one, who influenced Judo the most. I also recommend Mifune Sensei's new edition of his book 'Canon of Judo'- a must-have for every serious judoka.