Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire 2004
This gripping 2004 drama, helmed by director Song Hae-sung, dives into the extraordinary true story behind Rikidozan, a trailblazing wrestler whose legacy reshaped sports entertainment in Japan.
Director: Song Hae-sung
Cast
Sul Kyung-gu
Rikidozan
Miki Nakatani
Aya
Tatsuya Fuji
Takeo Kanno
Masato Hagiwara
Yuzuru Yoshimachi
Masakatsu Funaki
Imura Mashahiko
Shinya Hashimoto
Higashinami
Keiji Muto
Harold Sakata
Mike Polchlopek
Ben Sharpe
James Rocha
'Iron' Mike Sharpe
Jun Akiyama
Kokichi Endo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire (2004) about?
This film follows Rikidozan, a gifted sumo wrestler sidelined in Japan due to his Korean heritage, as he discovers professional wrestling in the U.S. and returns home as a national hero. It's a story of resilience, self-reinvention, and the power of breaking barriers in a sport that demands perfection.
Who directed Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire?
The film was directed by Song Hae-sung, a South Korean filmmaker known for his emotionally charged storytelling and visually compelling narratives.
Who stars in Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire?
The movie features Sul Kyung-gu in the lead role, alongside Miki Nakatani, Tatsuya Fuji, Masato Hagiwara, and real-life wrestling legends Masakatsu Funaki and Shinya Hashimoto.
Is Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire (2004) worth watching?
Given its strong dramatic core and stellar performances—especially Sul Kyung-gu's transformative lead—this film is a compelling watch for fans of biographical dramas. While IMDb unrated, the emotional depth and historical significance make it a standout in the genre.
How long is Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire?
The runtime is 139 minutes, offering a rich, immersive experience into Rikidozan's journey across two continents.
🎥 Trailer
About Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire (2004) — The Untold Journey of Wrestling's First Global Superstar
This gripping 2004 drama, helmed by director Song Hae-sung, dives into the extraordinary true story behind Rikidozan, a trailblazing wrestler whose legacy reshaped sports entertainment in Japan.
Sul Kyung-gu delivers a powerhouse performance in the lead role, bringing to life Rikidozan's relentless struggle against ethnic prejudice in sumo wrestling clubs before his groundbreaking shift to professional wrestling in the U.S. The film captures the raw energy of 1950s wrestling rings, blending underdog triumph with cultural identity themes. Miki Nakatani and Tatsuya Fuji round out an impressive cast, anchoring a narrative that pulses with determination, heart, and a spark of rebellion—making Rikidozan: A Hero Extraordinaire (2004) a must-watch for fans of inspiring biopics and sports dramas alike.
