Judoka

This short documentary tells the story of Doug Rogers, a young Canadian athlete who developed a talent for judo that led him into competition for the world championship at the Tokyo Olympics and subsequent competition at the Pan-American Games. The film shows the intensive judo training Rogers took at a Tokyo college, as well as glimpses of his life in Japan.

Directed by Josef Reeve - 1965 | 18 min

About the NFB
The National Film Board of Canada produces and distributes documentary films, animation, web documentaries and fiction. Our stories explore the world we live in from a Canadian point of view.

[danilocoutodesouza]

I'm not a Judô practicioner but this is one of the most beautiful things I've ever watched

[bigchief]

I'm blown away by the crisp quality of the film.

[alaindemon]

What is truly fascinating about old documentaries, is the soft and well spoken language, straight to the point, no bs. Back when values were something important. This is gold.

[npkrry]

I still have my fathers illustrated kodokan judo book from 1961.
Big respect for judo.

[zarticlife]

That was some beautiful Judo training in the Budokan arena. That moment when you need to tie your belt you thank fate for giving you a moment of rest brings back some fond memories.

[raggledaggle]

That ending made me cry. I was thinking of quiting Judo, but not anymore.

[fiftyfadesofgrey]

His narration of his life in judo 🥋 is chill to listen to.

[davidduvall]

I practiced Judo for 4 years I earned a brown belt and my instructor was from the Kodokan in Japan!It was a tough sport and I still have lumps on my fingers that formed scar tissue from grabbing lapels ! My instructor Takashi spoke very highly about the great Kimura and told me stories about him, Takashi was a great instructor he was a man of few words and was a funny guy, he made me laugh often!The day I quit Judo was a very sad day for me but my body suffered many injuries and it was time to start fishing!But I learned many good life lessons during my 4 years in Judo!Thank you Takashi and KImura for motivating me and making me a stronger Judoka and a good person!

[tommybrewer]

I love this!!! Judo is life🥋Rogers was a lucky man to experience Judo in it's home land and to train under one of the greatest in Kimura.

[eruston]

The Japanese must have loved this guy. I remember training judo, if you were a big guy, coach always made smaller players go against you. Coach figured if a small judoka could execute a move on a bigger opponent, then similar sized opponents will be easy!

[AlastorDarkAngel]

I started judo a month ago. I'm a little banged up from bad falls but thoroughly enjoying myself

[Mac]

RIP Doug Rogers, passed away today at the age of 79

[BanjoleleGamer]

This film had a massive influence on me and my judo journey. Oss!

[shawncweed]

I love this video...ahhhh...to be young and good at something!

[neutralcitizen]

Now many nations are strongly competing with the japanese.. central asia, europe, russia, georgia azerbaijan and many others... it is very pleasant to see how this wonderful art is spreading

[BobSaint]

I love he barely fits in the biggest uniform they could find for him on the set :D

This is great documentary.

PS: He looks here like young, buffier Val Kilmer.

[bluetiger]

This is the BEST video of inspiration, I find my self watching this every day, and it helps my drive for my goal go even further

[chrisgillon]

He was on a vision quest. Thank you for sharing this.

[Echo-vy]

Didn't realize it was filmed a long time ago until I saw the cars. Great video.

[MrCeobuddy]

This film got me and my son fired up judo is awesome