Watch Rikidozan

Rikidozan is a 2004 biopic movie, based on the true story of Rikidozan, a famous wrestler who became a national icon in Japan during the post-World War II era. The movie is directed by Song Hae-sung and stars Kyung-gu Sol, Miki Nakatani, and Tatsuya Fuji in leading roles. The movie portrays the struggles and hardships faced by Rikidozan, who was born as Mitsuhiro Momota in Korea while it was under Japanese rule, and later moved to Japan with his family. His father worked in a coal mine, and Rikidozan was forced to follow in his footsteps. However, he dreamed of becoming a wrestler, like his hero and mentor, Rikidozan.

Rikidozan's life changed when he was scouted by a wrestling promoter, who recognized his talent and helped him to kickstart his career in the ring. Rikidozan quickly became popular due to his charisma and powerful moves, and soon rose to fame as the king of the wrestling world, much to the chagrin of his Japanese competitors who resented a Korean wrestler claiming the top spot.

Through his battles with many legendary wrestlers of his time, Rikidozan challenged the racial prejudices and discrimination prevalent in post-war Japan. He became an inspiration for many Japanese and Korean people, symbolizing the possibility of a future where the two countries could coexist in harmony. However, his success was short-lived, as his wrestling career led him to associate with the yakuza, which ultimately led to his downfall.

The movie captures Rikidozan's rise to fame, his personal struggles, and his enduring legacy with finesse. The film covers the story of a man who dared to dream big, despite facing numerous obstacles along the way. The acting performances stand out, with Kyung-gu Sol giving an emotionally charged performance as Rikidozan, while Miki Nakatani delivers a nuanced portrayal of his wife, Aya, who supported him through thick and thin. Tatsuya Fuji, portraying Takeuchi, a veteran wrestler skeptical of Rikidozan's abilities, brings a sense of history to his performance.

The movie is also notable for its impressive production design, which recreates the late 1940s and early 1950s period with meticulous attention to detail. The costumes, sets, and cinematography have an authentic feel, perfectly capturing the visual essence of the era. The director skillfully portrays the physicality of wrestling and its emotionally draining effects on the wrestlers.

In conclusion, Rikidozan is a compelling biopic about a fascinating and complex figure in Japanese and Korean cultural history. It portrays a man who not only succeeded in his sport but also helped to bridge the two countries through his wrestling career. The movie captures the essence of his life and times, all while delivering an engrossing and emotional experience that captures your attention from start to end.