Omoto-kata (from Koshiki-no-kata) by Kanō Jigorō, Kōdōkan shihan, in May 1930 – full version

This is the famous movie recorded by French movie maker Georges Méliés in January 1930, outside in the Kyōjō (Imperial Palace).

It remains an iconic movie. Kanō-shihan at that point 69 years old puts down a performance that emphasizes the aesthetic over the combative nature, and that irrespective of how one looks at it, has little in common with how it is approached today. One needs to take into account the age and health status of the performers and the fact that this took place outside with no floating floor and in the middle of winter. The movie is one of the most important teaching tools in Kōdōkan jūdō if one knows and understands what to look for.

An absolute classic. Canonical.

Watching this again reminded me of what CK sensei previously wrote about the philosophical significance of the four-step footwork pattern.

...as well as the many principles - emphasised demonstration of kuzushi, shizenhontai, mi'ai, applying force at a 90 degree angle in a three-dimensional space, immovability (a parallel with my avatar pic for those who know this deity).

Thanks for posting this!