Before the Baba Yaga, before the Crane Kick, before the fists of fury, before even Frank Sinatra was doing Judo flips in his films, there was Orochi. Released in 1925, Bunter Futagawa’s “Orochi” is cited as the world’s first martial arts film. Made during a time when cinematography and editing were in their infancy, this movie made the bold decision to film not JUST a sword fight, but a climactic sword fight involving over 20 combatants. If there was ever a pioneer of the genre, this film was it. But is it good? Does this film stand the test of time? This week, hosts @joe_cebula and @rock.n.rowland sit down to discuss this piece of history and determine how effectively it opened up the world of martial arts cinema.

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Follow Joe Cebula @joe_cebula

Orochi (1925)
Director: Buntarô Futagawa