Beware the Dark Side of the Force
I believe the theme of this movie (a warrior who becomes a superior fighter but absolutely evil in the process) is the basis for the Star Wars phenomena.
shareGeorge Lucas did say that he was inspired by samurai movies. So, it's a definite possibility.
shareAnother truth.
I once came across an aikido book published in the sixties. It said "let the force flow through you", "guide the force" or something like that.
Yes. In fact there are quite a few elements in 'Star Was' that are based on Aikido teachings.
shareI also noticed, in the first movie, how the Darth Vader vs. Obi Wan Kenobi lightsaber duel looked like a kendo match.
shareExactly. Orignially the lightsabers were meant to be cerved (like an katana), but the effects were done with lasers and lasers don't bend.
shareChanging the subject a little, I believe there are martial arts schools in America that actually teach traditional Japanese sword fighting (the "quick draw" (iaido?) method of attack).
I think there is one in Boston.
Yes, this is true. I don't know exactly were these schools are, but I know they're out there.
shareYes. R2 3PO are kinda based in characters in one of Kurosawa's films. Watching this, the helmet made me think of Darth Vader. Then, as mentioned, the sword fights are a lot like lightsaber battles. Then you also have all the cutting off of hands and arms, which shows up throughout the Star Wars series.
share> R2 3PO are kinda based in characters in one of Kurosawa's films.
“Hidden Fortress” is the name of the film.