synopsis
In February 1913, Gaston Méliès left Cambodia for his last stop in Japan. There, his crew separated. Moreover, many more film companies were operating in the country. According to available information, we assume that he made two feature films (which were probably never distributed) and about twelve documentaries there. One was to be a unique recording of the production of samurai swords and examples of samurai traditions. However, the film about judo is probably the only one to have survived. Gaston in fact met with the founder of the sport, Kanō Jigorō, who gave him permission to film the members of the Kodokan school.
biography
Gaston Méliès (1852-1915), the brother of the more famous Georges, was primarily his sales representative in the United States. However, he has been directing films himself since 1903. He was first celebrated by American audiences. In the years 1912-13 he traveled the world and shot documentary films with staged scenes in exotic environments.
more about film
Info
| director: | Gaston Méliès |
| original title: | Japanese Judo Commonly Known as Jiu Jitsu |
| country: | Japan, United States |
| year: | 1913 |
| running time: | 13 min. |
