Sanshiro Sugata

Set in 1880s Meiji Japan, the story follows Sanshirō Sugata, a hotheaded young man who becomes an apprentice to Shōgorō Yano, a respected judo master. Under Yano's guidance, Sanshirō learns to replace his aggressive jujutsu style with the discipline and humility central to judo. As he grows and develops his skills, Sanshirō faces challenges from traditional martial artists resistant to change, including a dangerous duel that tests his abilities and character. Along the way, he develops a romantic relationship with the daughter of one of his defeated opponents. The film is based on a novel by Tsuneo Tomita, whose father, Tomita Tsunejirō, was one of the earliest students of judo.