Kodokan Under a Morning Moon

The film centers around a conflict between two martial arts. Judo, represented by Kenji Sugawara's character, is portrayed as a disciplined form focused on self-defense. In contrast, ju-jitsu is depicted through the aggressive actions of a group led by Hideo Takamatsu, emphasizing its violent nature.

The narrative culminates in a climactic showdown between Sugawara and Takamatsu, lasting five minutes on screen. This match is not merely a test of skill but highlights the moral implications of each martial art. Following the match, the story escalates as Takamatsu and his companions ambush Sugawara, leading to a more dangerous confrontation in the woods. The tension builds as viewers are left wondering about the outcome of this mortal combat.