Sumo Kid
Sumo Kid

Movie spotlight

Sumo Kid

2021
Movie
84 min
Russian

Vitya Kasatkin has an unusual hobby - he is engaged in Japanese sumo wrestling. His love for sumo was instilled in him by his father, who left the family 8 years ago and went to Japan. For many years, the boy has been living with one dream - to get to a youth tournament in Japan, in the hope that his father will see him, understand that he was wrong, and return to them.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic64/100
Google Users85%
Director: Katsuya TomitaGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

A young, aspiring sumo wrestler from a small Japanese village dreams of making it big in the professional circuit. Despite his small stature, he possesses an indomitable spirit and a unique, agile fighting style. He faces skepticism from traditionalists and personal challenges that test his resolve as he strives to prove that heart and determination can overcome any obstacle.

Critical Reception

Sumo Kid received a mixed to positive reception, with critics praising its heartwarming story and the lead actor's performance, while some found the pacing occasionally slow.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its inspirational underdog story and cultural insight into sumo.

  • Appreciated for its blend of humor and genuine emotional depth.

  • Some critics noted a lack of originality in certain plot elements.

Google audience: Audiences largely enjoyed 'Sumo Kid,' highlighting its feel-good nature and the protagonist's relatable struggles. Many viewers found the film to be a refreshing and charming watch.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Japanese Academy Awards.

Fun Fact

The lead actor, Yusuke Kashiwagi, underwent rigorous sumo training for over a year to authentically portray his character, gaining over 20 pounds of muscle.

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