3 comments about Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 3: Shoulder Locks with Alain Burrese.

1. As I sat down to review this DVD in the Lock On series, I found that I was going to have a difficult time writing this review as the basics of this DVD are exactly the same as the previous two volumes Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 1: Wrist Locks with Alain Burrese and Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 2: Arm Bars & Elbow Locks with Alain Burrese, which in and of itself is a fantastic thing. Therefore a lot of my review is going to be a partial repeat of my previous two reviews on volumes one and two in the Lock On series. So without further ado here is my review on this DVD.
   
   One of the first things that jumped out at me from the onset when I started watching Alain's "Lock On" series of DVD's was the simple yet effective approach that he took in the production and presentation of this series of DVD's. My initial impression was one of being in an actual seminar environment while Alain was teaching instead of merely watching an instructional DVD. You won't find any pointless or ineffective "bells and whistles" with this series; instead what you will find is good quality instruction covering a wide array of joint locking techniques. This particular DVD focuses on shoulder locking techniques.
   
   Alain's ability to instruct you on these simple, yet effective shoulder locking techniques is the hallmark of a good instructor and it certainly shows in this series. Alain's approach is straightforward and easy to follow as he takes you through each shoulder lock numerous times in order to teach you how to execute each technique correctly. Alain takes great care in his teachings to explain to you how some of these techniques, although they may appear to be ineffective, can actually be quite effective if applied under the right set of circumstances.
   
   I just finished watching this exceptionally well done instructional video that just so happens to be volume three in the Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials series by Alain Burrese. Like his two previous volumes, Alain goes into great detail in showing you how to utilize several different shoulder locking techniques in order to gain control over an opponent.
   
   One item of particular note that I found very profound in this particular volume, was Alain's statement at the beginning of the video that he was going to spend more time showing you, the student, the various shoulder locks and their applications rather than showing the same technique several times and in slow motion. Alain explained his reasoning behind this by informing the viewer that they could simply "rewind" the DVD and play any particular portion that they wanted to review again, rather then wasting precious recording time explaining the same technique over and over and also showing the same technique in slow motion. As Alain reasoned, this would give you, "more bang for your buck."
   
   As I watched Alain in this volume in the Lock On series, I was once again struck by his very effective and easy to understand way of teaching, the hallmark of an excellent instructor and a true martial artist.
   
   One of the most important things that I liked about not only this volume, but the first two volumes as well, is Alain's strong emphasis on incorporating the joint techniques he shows you with other techniques such as; punching, kicking, throwing, etc.
   
   Another one of the important things that Alain does in this series of DVD's is to really explain the finer points of each of the techniques that he demonstrates. This is of great importance as it is usually the little things that end up making or breaking the correct execution of a particular technique.
   
   Here is a list of the shoulder locks that Alain demonstrates in this DVD:
   
   1. Raising Shoulder Lock
   2. Pulling Shoulder Lock
   3. Chicken Wing
   4. Variation of the Chicken Wing
   5. Bent Arm Shoulder Lock
   6. Figure 4 Lock
   
   In addition to showing you the above listed shoulder locks, Alain also shows you over 35 different defenses against a variety of attacks utilizing the 6 shoulder locks listed above.
   
   This series is without a doubt one of the most comprehensive collections of DVD's to show the finer points of joint techniques in an easy to understand and technically precise manner. I would highly recommend any and all of the volumes in the Lock On series.



2. Volume 3 "Shoulder Locks"
   
   The third installment of the "Lock On" series continues the high standards set by the previous two volumes. The production qualities are good, with nice contrast in the background and people, and with good sound quality. There are a few barely noticeable editing errors, but they do not detract in any way from the overall outstanding quality of the DVD.
   
   For me, the organization of the material is the strongest selling point. In contrast to other instructional DVDs that present a wide variety of disparate techniques to deal with a specific situation, the "Lock On" DVDs present a core technique, sometimes with variations, and show a student how to apply that technique in a variety of situations. The difference is that the focus is now on the technique instead of the situation, allowing for a deeper exploration of that specific technique and how to use it. And, by incorporating previously covered blocks, footwork, and principles, it reinforces a more spiraled curriculum that builds upon itself.
   
   On its own, volume 3 could be a very useful resource in developing a deeper understanding of shoulder locks. The entire set (so far) looks like it will be fairly comprehensive and will serve as a great resource for learning how to use these locks as well as a great resource for picking up tips on how to teach them. I'd recommend this volume, as well as the whole set, for students and instructors of arts with similar joint locks and I would especially recommend this set to Hapkido practitioners who may be tired of seeing Hapkido "instructional" tapes that look more like a simple demonstration instead of an examination of the "nuts and bolts" of how these things work. This is a superb resource.
   
   Contents:
   Introduction (1 minute) and Explanation of Shoulder (3 minutes) -
   These two sections are straight to the point. Mr Burrese doesn't waste words giving an overview of the DVD and then showing how the shoulder works the way it does. These basic principles and concepts are constantly referred to throughout the volume.
   
   Raising Arm Lock (20 minutes) -
   The first technique is fairly basic and is shown from a same side wrist grab, a punch defense, and as an initiated attack. The commentary and examples remind and stress the inclusion of accompanying strikes, blocks and footwork (a concept carried throughout the volume very well). During this section, a different technique is introduced as well and is shown against clothing grabs, cross arm grabs, and as a punch defense. This is the only area where it seems like there may have been an editing oversight. Regardless, the material is good.
   
   Pulling Shoulder Lock (12 minutes) -
   This technique is shown from a same side wrist grab, clothing grab, cross hand grab, 2 hands on 1 wrist, punch defense, from a clinch and as an initiated attack.
   
   Chicken Wing (11 minutes) and Chicken Wing Variation (17 minutes) - These techniques are shown from a same side wrist garb, 2 handed shoulder grab, punch defense, from a clinch, as an initiated attack, from a rear choke, and include some interesting variations.
   
   Bent Arm Shoulder Lock (12 minutes) (with "v" lock variations) - shown from a same side wrist grab, punch defense, sleeve grab, clinch, punch defense, and as an initiated attack.
   
   Figure-4-Lock (7 minutes) - shown from a cross hand grab, punch defense, and fro a wider punch (2).
   
   Conclusion (2 minutes) - this is a quick wrap-up that gives some great tips and a promise of more to come!
   
   Total Time - About 88 minutes



3. As with the rest of the "Lock On" series, this DVD is elegantly done with quality production, clear sound, good contrast between the people and background settings, and outstanding camera angles so that viewers can easily tell what is going on.
   
   Burrese's instructions are clear, straightforward, and precise, making it easy to understand all the important points. He is really an outstanding communicator and clearly a very proficient instructor. If you have been exposed to this type of thing before, the pacing is just right; minimal explanation with maximum demonstration. It is "chaptered" well too, so if any section goes by too quickly you can always skip back and replay it again.
   
   The material is very well organized too, beginning with an explanation of the structure of the shoulder and then quickly moving into a variety of techniques. It is a great overview with enough depth that you can practice what you have learned with a partner afterward. Contents include raising shoulder locks, pulling shoulder locks, "chicken wing" locks and variations thereof, bent arm shoulder locks, and "figure-four" locks.
   
   These applications can be used offensively or defensively in a variety of situations in the ring and/or on the street. Previously covered principles, footwork, and blocks from earlier DVDs are once again incorporated in this one so there is a single thread from volume to volume with a logical build of the materials. These techniques are common to most fighting styles and will benefit nearly anyone from traditional practitioners to modern mixed martial artists.
   
   Burrese moves well, explains clearly, demonstrates effectively, and ensures that viewers truly understand the materials. While no DVD can be a substitute for hands-on instruction, this one is so good that it's the next best thing to being there, solid, practical instruction that can be invaluable for practitioners of most any martial style. Very well done!
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Martial Arts Instruction and Surviving Armed Assaults; co-author of The Way of Kata and The Way to Black Belt

2 comments about Pride Fighting Championships: Fully Loaded.

1. In which you get to see Zuluhino vs Henry Miller with a strange finish, Sakaraba vs Ken Shamrock with a controversial finish, Mirko vs Josh in a good fight, Yokoi vs Rampage where Rampage seems to be back to normal, Verdum vs Kharitonov in an interesting fight, and other good matches.
   
   It's not the best Pride show I've seen, but it isn't horrible, save for the Zuluhino match.



2. Maybe it was because Final Conflict 2005 was so extraordinarily good, but Fully Loaded didn't live up to my expectations. I don't regret purchasing it, but it's not a classic.
   
   Here's a fight by fight without major spoilers.
   
   Mirko CroCop vs. Josh Barnett 8/10
   
   The rematch to a fight that ended with a freak shoulder injury. Mirko is coming off a grueling (but not too damaging) fight at Final Conflict, but appears to have no ill affects from that fight. Likewise, Barnett is ready to go and doesn't show any ring rust. Crocop's takedown defense might be the best in the world (including any wrestlers). However, Barnett came to fight and shows he isn't just a 1-trick pony like Mark Coleman. It's a great fight, and I think we'll see more of both of these guys.
   
   Kazushi Sakuraba vs. Ken Shamrock 0/10
   This fight ends due to a premature stoppage. I know that's kind of a spoiler, but you should know that before you pay money for this DVD. What's even more disappointing perhaps is the uncomitting style that Shamrock displays before the fight was stopped. It's "classic" boring Shamrock. It kind of looked like Shamrock/Severn 2. Lots of dancing, almost no fighting, and then a quick stoppage.
   
   Makoto Takimoto vs. Dong Sik Yoon 7/10
   
   Two lighter fighters who fight with a style that would be more common at a Bushido event. Still, they are both pretty well-rounded and there is some good groundwork and surprising standup.
   
   Sergei Kharitonov vs. Fabricio Werdum 6/10
   
   This fight had me so excited in anticipation. Kharitonov is probably ranked 4th in the Pride heavyweight division, and has shown good submission wins, and some punishing knockouts (Ninja Rua, Pedro Rizzo, etc). Werdum is a world champion bjj player who has shown in his short career that he has made a good transition to MMA. He has a couple of really impressive submission wins. The winner of this fight could set himself up for a title shot in the near future. Unfortunately, each fighter respects the strength of the other too much (Kharitonov's striking and Werdum's groundwork). There isn't as much engaging of action, or all-out drama that were in previous fights from these two guys. There is a winner, but I don't think the winner is ready for a title shot just yet.
   
   Quinton "Rampage" Jackson vs. Hirotaka Yokoi 9/10
   
   Rampage is an exciting fighter whose trademark slams have won him many fights. He has also had a couple of brutal losses at the hands of Vanderlei Silva and Shogun Rua, and a couple of other lackluster performances. Before this fight, he is at a crossroads. Yokoi is also at a crossroads, having lost a few in a row since going toe-to-toe with Nogueira for a round before being submitted in the 2004 heavyweight tournament. Both guys need a win, and after a competitive start, one of them emerges as a fighter with a bright future in Pride.
   
   James Thompson vs. Alexandru Lungu 7/10
   James Thomposon is HUGE. Not like that Brazillian basketball player, but huge like Hercules. He's not the slickest fighter in the world, but if you like to watch fighters who look like video game heroes, then you'll like this fight. Lungu is also huge, a world-class wrestler with a gigantic girth. There's no secret these guys aren't going to be able to go the distance and it's a matter of time till one of them gets tagged solid...
   
   Murilo "Ninja" Rua vs. Murad Chunkaiev 8/10
   Ninja is in need of a win. After being highly touted early in his career, a failed attempt at the 2004 heavyweight tournament and the emergence of his brother Shogun as the class of the middleweight division have left Ninja in no-man's land. This fight is the best he's looked in a long time.
   
   Wagner da Conceicao Martins vs. Henry "Sentoryu" Miller 1/10
   
   Another early stoppage. A knee lands, the ref stops it, and that's about it. In truth, a couple more knees might have landed if the fight continued, but it was too early of a stoppage for this level of fighting.
   
   All in all, it's a little sub-par for a Pride card. If you don't buy every event, save your money and make sure you have critical countdown 2005 and final conflict 2005.

5 comments about Pride Fighting Championships: Critical Countdown 2004.

1. A classic event with every fight being highly entertaining. the main event features one of the most unbelievable momemnts you will ever see.



2. In all honesty, if you are a fan of MMA in any way, shape, or form... you MUST own this DVD! One of the most incredible moments in MMA history takes place on this disc and you simply do not want to miss it. I watch it over and over again and it blows me away each and every time. Seriously, buy this DVD. You won't regret it!



3. This DVD had some great fights on it. As a Mixed Martial Artist myself I had to get this DVD. I have quite a collection of PrideFC and UFC DVDs and this one is one of my top 5 favorites. I even picked up a few Submission moves from this DVD which I have used when I'm training in MMA.
   
   The first fight is with Big Nog vs. Heath Herring. This was a great fight between two masters of the ground game. Heath Herring doesn't get the credit he deserves but he is a fighter I do enjoy watching. I learned the Anaconda move from watching this fight but I don't want to give up any spoilers.
   
   The second fight was with Fedor and Randelman which is already a classic fight in MMA history. If you never saw this fight you are going to be amazed when you do and you will see why Fedor is so great.
   
   The rest of the fights are awesome as well. Wait until you see the fight with Arona and Rampage Jackson. Your jaw is going to drop again like it will when you see the Fedor and Randleman fight.



4. ...Another very good Pride DVD. Most of them are...lol! Good action, with some shocking slams. Nice fight card as usual. I recommend it for sure.



5. This dvd features the rematch of sakuraba and schembri also the number 1 contender match of jackson and arona and 4 matches of the heavy weight grand prix
   
   best fights:
   1)schembri vs sakuraba 2)arona vs jackson 3)kharitonov vs schilt 4)nogueria vs herring

5 comments about Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 2: Arm Bars & Elbow Locks with Alain Burrese.

1. One thing I've personally enjoyed about all of Burrese's body of work is his no-nonsense way of presentation. From Hard Won Wisdom to Hapkido Hoshinsul, From Street Fighting Essentials to the new Lock On Series, Burrese simply knows self defense.
   
   I was excited to receive the evaluation copy of Master Burrese's new Lock On series of Hapkido Instructional DVDs. As usual, there was no let down.
   
   Throughout, Burrese keeps safety in mind. He reminds the viewer that respect for one's training partner is key. Many instructors forget this point, which could cause problems during practice.
   
   Another bonus of Burrese's work is that he packs as much information as possible into one DVD. Unlike other production companies which use fillers like promos for their other products, Burrese and Aiki Productions cram as much knowledge into each DVD as possible. As always, you get the biggest bang for your buck.
   
   The Lock On Series isn't simply for the novice practitioner. Even the seasoned Hapkidoin will find great material here as well as a good reference source. The novice will find clear, precision instruction on basics, controlling and finishing techniques. The expert will find an invaluable reference on fundamental and advanced techniques and tweaks.
   
   When watching Burrese in action, you'll notice his flow and control. Flowing, making a technique fluid and not choppy or hopping around trying to make it work, is essential in Hapkido. Burrese embodies that concept. He emphasizes proper footwork, an oft forgotten key, and whole body technique. He takes time to explain mechanics, a must for Hapkido.
   
   This isnt a simple run-down of locking techniques. This IS a Master Instructor taking the time to show you step-by-step guidance towards mastery.
   
   Kudos to Aiki Productions on clear video and audio quality. Audio quality is often lacking with many manufacturers. Aiki does an excellent job here with that as well as the graphical interface of the DVD.
   
   Melinda Kidder, Owner
   Chajonshim Martial Arts Supply



2. One of the first things that jumped out at me from the onset when I started watching Alain's "Lock On" series of DVD's was the simple yet effective approach that he took in the production and presentation of this series of DVD's. My initial impression was one of being in an actual seminar environment while Alain was teaching instead of merely watching an instructional DVD. You won't find any pointless or ineffective "bells and whistles" with this series; instead what you will find is good quality instruction covering a wide array of joint locking techniques. This particular DVD focuses on arm bars and elbow locking techniques.
   
   Alain's ability to instruct you on these simple, yet effective arm bars and elbow locking techniques is the hallmark of a good instructor and it certainly shows in this series. Alain's approach is straightforward and easy to follow as he takes you through each arm bar and elbow lock numerous times in order to teach you how to execute each technique correctly. Alain takes great care in his teachings to explain to you how some of these techniques, although they may appear to be ineffective, can actually be quite effective if applied under the right set of circumstances.
   
   I'm going to take a brief moment here to jump ahead to the end of this DVD where Alain explains the three (3) key elements that need to be present in order for these techniques to be effective. Although each one of these key elements is vitally important in their own right, none of them is exclusive in importance to the others when it comes to applying these arm bars and elbow locks effectively in a combat or self-defense situation. What you have to remember is that these three (3) key elements have to be combined in order to form a symbiotic entity that is only effective when utilized together in an efficient manner.
   
   These three (3) key elements are as follows:
   
   1. Surprise: If your opponent doesn't know what to expect, he is going to have a more difficult time defending against it. However, if your opponent knows what is coming, he is going to be more readily able to counter it, or avoid it all together.
   
   2. Speed: Executing the techniques shown on this DVD has to be done as fast as possible while still retaining the third key element, which is proper technique. If the technique is executed too slowly, then your opponent will have the opportunity to figure out what you are doing and, as in the case of surprise, be able to counter it or avoid the technique all together.
   
   3. Proper Technique: This should literally be a "no-brainer," but unfortunately that doesn't seem to be the case. I don't know how many times I have personally seen or heard of someone trying to apply a particular technique in a given self-defense type situation when they weren't even executing the technique correctly to begin with. Alain goes to extreme lengths in this series to implore you to practice, practice, and practice, until the techniques he demonstrates become second nature to you where you can execute them correctly without thought or hesitation.
   
   Alain follows the same instructional format for each one of the various arm bars and elbow locks shown in this DVD. He starts out by explaining some of the finer points of executing each technique followed by various follow up techniques that can be used on your opponent, if it is needed, after the arm bar or elbow lock has been applied. He then shows several variations of each arm bar or elbow lock that all are based on the primary techniques that were first shown.
   
   Alain takes a very realistic approach to the use of arm bars and elbow locks and attempts to cover several influencing factors that may or may not come into play while attempting to apply them in a real life situation. I myself watched this DVD on three separate occasions and found something that I had previously missed each time. I have no doubt that were I to watch this DVD again after writing this review that I would find something else that I had previously missed.
   
   One of the many great things that I really enjoy about Alain's teaching style is his, what I like to refer to as, "nuggets of wisdom" that he injects throughout his instruction process. I too use this in my own personal style of teaching and have found that it is very effective teaching technique.
   
   I have a rather large collection of instructional videos that I have accumulate over the years and I can say without reservation that Alain's "Lock On" series is one of the best I have seen so far on the subject of joint techniques. If I were to have only one comment to make on this series, it would be this, "Hurry up and make the rest of them!"



3. This DVD is very nicely done. It is excellently produced, has decent music, good sound, a nice contrast between the white gis and the blue background, and outstanding camera angles so that viewers can easily tell what is going on. Burrese's instructions are clear, straightforward, and precise, making it easy to understand all the important points. The pacing is good too; just the right amount of explanation before each demonstration so that you will know what is going on but not be bored. These demonstrations take place at a variety of speeds from slow to fast so that viewers can get a good flavor of what it might be like to actually perform each technique.
   
   The material is logically organized from simple to complex. It begins by describing the elbow and how to best attack it and then moves on to cover basic arm bars, variations to these basics, arm bars from escort positions (common to law enforcement and security applications), step under arm bars, arm breaks, crossed arms, armpit clamp, and ground fighting. Most importantly, all the important principles that make these techniques succeed are clearly explained so that you can apply them to any lock in any martial art, not only those demonstrated here. These include such things as getting off line, blocking, trapping, spinning, striking, using your whole body weight, taking an opponent's energy, and other factors that can help stop an opponent's follow-on technique(s) while simultaneously facilitating your ability to execute the techniques successfully. Viewers will understand the angle, direction, distance, and proper finish of each application well enough to be able to troubleshoot the techniques when you practice them with a partner.
   
   While most practitioners think of arm bars as defensive techniques, I really like how these applications are demonstrated both defensively and offensively. They are shown from a variety of starting positions including from grabs and punches. The add-ons such as kicks, punches, using "found" objects like parked cars or walls, and finishing techniques add a nice progression to apply appropriate levels of force for controlling an opponent, causing pain, or damaging an adversary.
   
   Burrese moves well, explains clearly, demonstrates effectively, and ensures that viewers truly understand the materials. While no DVD is a substitute for hands-on instruction, this one is so good that it's the next best thing to being there. This is solid, practical instruction. I am confident that the rest of the series is equally outstanding as well. Highly recommended!
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Martial Arts Instruction and Surviving Armed Assaults; co-author of The Way of Kata and The Way to Black Belt



4. This is the 2nd of Alain Burrese's "Lock On" series and certainly delivers what it promises. Like volume one, this DVD gives a clear and professional style of presentation in sequential form. The techniques are illustrated well, presented slowly and then quickly, at a distance and in closer detail. Burrese offers the viewer a unique sense of involvement, largely due to his presentation skills, as well as his fine knowledge of techniques. His DVDs are more like workshops than remote illustrations found in most martial arts DVDs. Volume II, as well as volume I, are fine additions to any martial artist's library. I look forward to the remainder of his series, and I understand that volume III is soon to be released. Great buy!



5. This video is by far the best Martial Arts DVD i have ever seen. It is very clean and well thought out. If you are lookin for a DVD that will help you take someone down or just to learn new move. This is the one to get.
   
   I love this DVD

3 comments about Mike Swain Ne-Waza Judo Groundfighting.

1. This DVD develops a very coherent approach to NE-Waza . Mike Swain presents a logical progression of attacks, from standing to ground, fighting off one's back , attacking UKE's back and some very nice arm-lock entries.
   
   The simplicity of presentation is first class and most of the moves are interlinked one way or another.
   This tape doesn't have the clutter of other Judo or JiuJitsu tapes but presents each move correctly, explaining the finer points of each move so they really can be applied in randori or competion. The only thing thats missing is perhaps some competitive examples.



2. I have been doing Judo and Jujitsu for a while and this dvd here is outstanding! Now I have his other dvd as well Judo Complete which is real great but this dvd breaks down all of his steps even more and he goes over his techniques in slow motion. If you are interested in improving your grappling game on the mat of rondori, shai, or even in the streets this dvd is a must.



3. a must get for any grapplers libary, professionaly made,clear and concise. Swain is 1st class

4 comments about Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 1: Wrist Locks with Alain Burrese.

1. With so many martial arts videos and resources out there, the bar has been set pretty high for new material. Alain Burrese sets the standard even higher. This first "Lock On" DVD is a good example of providing a lot of material in a quality manner at a fair price. The DVD runs 87 minutes of solid content.
   
   The "Lock On" project is a very ambitious one. It seems to be designed to focus on Hapkido joint locks without having to get too deep into the striking aspect, the footwork aspect, falls, breathing, finishes and so on. Granted, there has to be some of this to make the locks work out of "isolation" but the 1st video sets a good model.
   
   The DVD is arranged clearly into several chapters, making it very easy to reference and skip around. It starts with a nice exploration of the wrist and some great insight on why wrist locks work the way they do. From there are sections on various locks, including the outer wrist lock, inner wrist lock, overhand outer wrist lock, reverse handshake, standing center lock, s-lock, and the faucet lock.
   
   In each section the lock is explored in a general static sense, with attention paid to the mechanics, then it's shown more dynamically in a variety of situations (like lapel grab, same side wrist grab, etc) with several variations depending on footwork and attacker's intent. Key elements such as footwork, posture, and even finishes are explored to a degree necessary for the technique but not to distraction.
   
   Most of the variations are the old tried and true ones but there were some original ones I really liked as well. There are a few variations I didn't personally care for, such as the jumping locks and the deep crouches, but the mechanics were interesting to see even then. Also, I had never learned the "faucet lock" before but seeing the application of it in the clinch makes me curious about it and I'll try it out on someone soon.
   
   Overall, the production values are very good, with clear photography, good angles and very good verbal descriptions. Attention is paid to more than just the lock, getting into how to shift weight, use the whole body and proper mechanics without getting too abstract and while trying to keep the focus on the locks. The video doesn't pretend to be an "end-all be-all" representation of Hapkido and it sticks closely to its clearly stated goals of exploring wrist locks. There seems to be elements from different Hapkido traditions represented in the variations and this makes it very educational for students of the art.
   
   On a similar note, I like how the material is presented with a stark lack of propaganda that sometimes can be seen in Hapkido videos. He doesn't go overboard in extolling the virtues of the art or in specific lineages and/or purity. The material is presented as its own justification for learning it. I look forward to the second volume and would be interested to see other elements of Hapkido explored in similar ways (e.g. breakfalls, strikes, footwork, etc).
   
   At first glance, people might assume this is "just" a reference for new Hapkido practitioners. This isn't true. The way this DVD is presented makes it a great resource for all levels. For a new HKD student (or even for a student who learns joint locks as part of a Taekwondo Hoshinsool program) this is a nice supplement to classroom instruction on how a lock works and how to do it. For a "new" instructor this provides an excellent resource on how to teach locks and focus on how to "get everything right". For a senior or master instructor, aside from the solid instructional reference, there are enough little variations and ideas to make it worthwhile as well. Best of all, by not being "kwan-specific" it can serve as a great tool for all Hapkido kwans and Hapkido-based arts as well as for those school who use Hapkido or Hapkido elements in their self defense programs (like many TKD schools do).
   
   Overall, I highly recommend this volume for students and instructors alike. The price is fairly average for martial arts videos but it packs a lot more material in than most others do. There is a lot of general reference that is usable by all levels and enough "extra" that will interest seasoned instructors as well.



2. One thing I've personally enjoyed about all of Burrese's body of work is his no-nonsense way of presentation. From Hard Won Wisdom to Hapkido Hoshinsul, From Street Fighting Essentials to the new Lock On Series, Burrese simply knows self defense.
   
   I was excited to receive the evaluation copy of Master Burrese's new Lock On series of Hapkido Instructional DVDs. As usual, there was no let down.
   
   Throughout, Burrese keeps safety in mind. He reminds the viewer that respect for one's training partner is key. Many instructors forget this point, which could cause problems during practice.
   
   Another bonus of Burrese's work is that he packs as much information as possible into one DVD. Unlike other production companies which use fillers like promos for their other products, Burrese and Aiki Productions cram as much knowledge into each DVD as possible. As always, you get the biggest bang for your buck.
   
   The Lock On Series isn't simply for the novice practitioner. Even the seasoned Hapkidoin will find great material here as well as a good reference source. The novice will find clear, precision instruction on basics, controlling and finishing techniques. The expert will find an invaluable reference on fundamental and advanced techniques and tweaks.
   
   When watching Burrese in action, you'll notice his flow and control. Flowing, making a technique fluid and not choppy or hopping around trying to make it work, is essential in Hapkido. Burrese embodies that concept. He emphasizes proper footwork, an oft forgotten key, and whole body technique. He takes time to explain mechanics, a must for Hapkido.
   
   This isnt a simple run-down of locking techniques. This IS a Master Instructor taking the time to show you step-by-step guidance towards mastery.
   
   Kudos to Aiki Productions on clear video and audio quality. Audio quality is often lacking with many manufacturers. Aiki does an excellent job here with that as well as the graphical interface of the DVD.
   
   Melinda Kidder, Owner
   Chajonshim Martial Arts Supply



3. One of the first things that jumped out at me from the onset when I started watching Alain's "Lock On" series of DVD's was the simple yet effective approach that he took in the production and presentation of this series of DVD's. My initial impression was one of being in an actual seminar environment while Alain was teaching instead of merely watching an instructional DVD. You won't find any pointless or ineffective "bells and whistles" with this series; instead what you will find is good quality instruction covering a wide array of joint locking techniques. This particular DVD focuses on wrist locking techniques.
   
   Alain's ability to instruct you on these simple, yet effective wrist locking techniques is the hallmark of a good instructor and it certainly shows in this series. Alain's approach is straightforward and easy to follow as he takes you through each wrist lock numerous times in order to teach you how to execute each technique correctly. Alain takes great care in his teachings to explain to you how some of these techniques although they may appear to be ineffective, can actually be quite effective if applied under the right set of circumstances.
   
   I'm going to take a brief moment here to jump ahead to the end of this DVD where Alain explains the three (3) key elements that need to be present in order for these techniques to be effective. Although each one of these key elements is vitally important in their own right, none of them is exclusive in importance to the others when it comes to applying these wrist locks effectively in a combat or self-defense situation. What you have to remember is that these three (3) key elements have to be combined in order to form a symbiotic entity that is only effective when utilized together in an efficient manner.
   
   These three (3) key elements are as follows:
   
   1. Surprise: If your opponent doesn't know what to expect, he is going to have a more difficult time defending against it. However, if your opponent knows what is coming, he is going to be more readily able to counter it, or avoid it all together.
   
   2. Speed: Executing the techniques shown on this DVD has to be done as fast as possible while still retaining the third key element, which is proper technique. If the technique is executed too slowly, then your opponent will have the opportunity to figure out what you are doing and, as in the case of surprise, be able to counter it or avoid the technique all together.
   
   3. Proper Technique: This should literally be a "no-brainer," but unfortunately that doesn't seem to be the case. I don't know how many times I have personally seen or heard of someone trying to apply a particular technique in a given self-defense type situation when they weren't even executing the technique correctly to begin with. Alain goes to extreme lengths in this series to implore you to practice, practice, and practice, until the techniques he demonstrates become second nature to you where you can execute them correctly without thought or hesitation.
   
   Alain follows the same instructional format for each one of the various wrist locks shown in this DVD. He starts out by explaining some of the finer points of executing each technique followed by various follow up techniques that can be used on your opponent, if it is needed, after the wrist lock has been applied. He then shows several variations of each wrist lock that all are based on the primary wrist lock that was first shown.
   
   Alain takes a very realistic approach to the use of wrist locks and attempts to cover several influencing factors that may or may not come into play while attempting to apply them in a real life situation. I myself watched this DVD on three separate occasions and found something that I had previously missed each time. I have no doubt that were I to watch this DVD again after writing this review that I would find something else that I had previously missed.
   
   One of the many great things that I really enjoy about Alain's teaching style is his, what I like to refer to as, "nuggets of wisdom" that he injects throughout his instruction process. I too use this in my own personal style of teaching and have found that it is very effective teaching technique.
   
   I have a rather large collection of instructional videos that I have accumulate over the years and I can say without reservation that Alain's "Lock On" series is one of the best I have seen so far on the subject of joint techniques. If I were to have only one comment to make on this series, it would be this, "Hurry up and make the rest of them!"



4. OK, all of us have done it! We've purchased DVDs that seem to offer clear insight and instruction regarding specific techniques used in our forms of martial arts. Yet, how many of us have been disappointed to find that the not-so-clear presentations have been poorly illustrated and sequenced?
   
   Alain Burrese brings to this DVD an entirely different style of presentation that allows the viewer to see (almost feel) the techniques being illustrated. Burrese presents his selection of joint locks within the framework of grounded martial arts practices, so the techniques are never simply isolated movements. Yet, his presentation also allows one to see the details of hand placement, footwork, body positioning, etc. that provide the real power for the execution of these techniques.
   
   Burrese has a strong sense of presence in front of the camera, and this dramatically improves the quality of his instruction. Not only are the wrist locks clearly explained and illustrated, but they are also reinforced by Burrese's teaching style, which always includes a summary of what he presents. The camera moves in for close details of each technique after showing the viewer an overall view. Consequently, Burrese never forgets to emphasize that the techniques are rooted firmed in martial arts practices. Yet, Burrese goes further by showing the extreme power of each technique, something that many instructors in dojos are not willing to demonstrate.
   
   These techniques are, indeed, powerful tools and should be practiced carefully with a partner. They are intended for close, confrontational situations, which are usually the real-life situations where defense is needed. Nothing fancy here. Just straightforward techniques that work. I've used some of them before to stop more escalated fight situations, so I know they work. Alain Burrese presents them with the clarity that most instructors cannot.
   
   As I understand it, the "Lock On" series will be comprised of five DVDs, maybe six. If the rest of the series is anything like this one, they will constitute a classic collection for martial artists practicing any form. Furthermore, one should know that Burrese shows these defense practices because they work for anyone, who can maintain the fundamental concepts of martial arts while executing these techniques. I first encountered Alain Buresse's presentations in a DVD entitled "Streetfighting Essentials." I found this to be an invaluable resource, because Burrese was able to bridge the distance between dojo instruction of martial arts and real-life street situations that require quick, spontaneous execution of defense strategies that allow one to survive. With this in mind, I purchased volume I of the "Lock On" series and was pleased to find that Burrese still emphasizes that martial arts practice needs to keep the fighting intent foremost, even after we develop a more philosophical approach to the forms we study.
   
   "Lock On: Joint Locking Essentials Volume 1" is an invaluable instructional DVD for any martial artist. I expect to see many more DVDs by this Hapkido practitioner, simply because he knows what he is doing and knows how to present this knowledge to others clearly through his combination of words and images. This is a professionally produced DVD that I will use for many years. Thank you, Alain, for sharing your skills.

1 comments about Judo 3 DVD Box Set-D.

1. I've had these DVD's for about 6 months now. I bought them because I was interested in seeing Judo training methods used in France. I was not disappointed. All three DVD's are full of drills and instruction for tachiwaza and newaza. The instruction is high quality and the English track is acceptable. These DVD's would be valuable even with out an English track. The instructors have great foot work and by just watching them I was able to pick up on things.
   The content can be broken down like this-
   
   Disc 1- Basic instruction on single techniques. Plenty of instruction, advice, and drills to keep beginners busy for a long time.
   
   Disc 2- Using the basic techniques from the first disc in combination. This was the best disc for me. There are many combinations and drills covered on the disc. Great stuff for intermediate players.
   
   Disc 3- This one is titled Competition Techniques, but it's really about strategy. The material covered here has to do with gripping patterns and setting up your techniques in randori and shiai. This is good stuff for everyone from neophyte to expert. There is no really ground breaking information provided here, but the concepts are so well illustrated that you cannot fail to get something out of this disc.
   
   I highly recommend this set. Every club should own a set. Our dojo has learned allot from it and the drills have been great for both or adult and children's class. I'd give it 6 stars if the scale went that high.

4 comments about Cold Showers.

1. 'Douches froides' ('Cold Showers') is a film by Antony Cordier that has been marketed in a strange way: the projected audience was supposedly the gay audience, but aside from brief frontal nudity in an innocuous gym shower room there is nothing 'gay' about this movie. Instead COLD SHOWERS is an examination of class, sport, experimentation, and emotional borderlines that are at once fascinating and frustrating.
   
   Mickael (Johan Libereau) is from a poor working class family - his father Gerard (Jean-Philippe Ecoffey) is a boozer taxi cab driver who lost his license as a result of a DUI, and his mother Annie (Florence Thomassin) is a cleaning woman in the high school gym: they live on the edge of poverty. Not a great student, Mickael excels in judo and his life is focused on his sport and on his girlfriend Vanessa (Salome Stevenin). One of Mickael's teammates Clement (Pierre Perrier) is from a wealthy family: his father Louis Steiner (Aurelien Recoing) is confined to a wheelchair and his mother Mathilde (Claire Nebout) is a woman of the world and society. Louis decides to sponsor the judo team, buys them outfits, and asks Mickael to work with Clement to perfect his technique and prepare the judo team for a French championship.
   
   Mickael and Clement relate well and while Mickael is a winning player, Clement is smarter and understands the intrinsic rules of the game better. An incident occurs that forces Mickael to take the position of a wounded mate and in doing so he must lose 8 kilos to qualify for the championship team. The struggle to lose weight (his body is already perfect) places stress on both Mickael and his family and teammates. Mickael and Vanessa include Clement in their camaraderie, a situation which evolves into a ménage a trois as the three have sex in the after hours gym. Vanessa reacts as though this is the greatest physical feeling ever, Clement is smitten, and Mickael has troubling doubts. When the three decide to try it again in a hotel room Mickael is so conflicted that he does not join the other two, only listening to their cavorting in the bathtub feeling inferior to the smarter, wealthier Clement. But on the judo side, the team wins the championship and Mickael's delicate sense of self worth is restored for a moment. It is the manner in which the trio of young adolescents resolves their antics that closes the film.
   
   Though the actors are superb and very beautiful to see and hear, the character development is fuzzy and we are left with little understanding or insight as to the each of the key players. The judo action moments are beautifully choreographed and the intimacy scenes are done with taste and fine lighting but with little passion conveyed. Though we want to identify with Mickael and his methods of confronting his coming of age, there just isn't enough character motivation to make that transference entirely successful. This film feels like two movies: a judo team's antics and a class-crossed ménage a trois. Beautiful to watch, but the script could have been more carefully constructed. Grady Harp, August 06



2. It's a sign of desperation on the part of the producers that this movie is being promoted as gay cinema. Yes, there is a brief (and darkly-filmed) threesome at the heart of the movie, and it's of the 2M+1F variety. But otherwise there isn't the faintest trace of "gay" in this movie, only a young man confused about his place in the world and driven to desperate acts, from losing more than 15 pounds on a crash diet to get into a lower judo weight class to sharing his girlfriend with a richer teammate to an act of violence that mars the last ten minutes.
   
   With that said, there is a halfway-decent plot here; if you like the "disaffected teenage male" strain of French cinema you may enjoy this. But if you've come for either a gay coming-of-age movie or for the sort of titillation common to most movies promoted specifically to a gay audience, check out Grande Ecole or Latter Days instead.



3. intense in a smooth way, mildly erotic. if you have heard it was "gay cinema" it is not. but even if that is what you were hoping for you should still watch this film. it is simply a great movie. and the french language makes it sultry throughout.



4. In the beginning of this French film directed by Antony Cordier Mikael (Johan Libereau) discovers, when he takes a shower, that his mother has had the electricity turned off to save money. He lives with his parents who are extremely poor-- his father loses his job as a taxi driver because of a drinking problem; his mother is a cleaning lady-- and pretty much measures his self-worth only for his skills on the school's judo team. He becomes friends with Clement (Pierre Perrier), a rich student on the team as well. The two eventually get involved in a menage a trois with Mikael's girl friend Vanaessa (Salome Stevenin). The three young people (all very easy to look at) are playing with fire so you can imagine where that relationship, if you can call it that, goes. Then there is the other plot, Mikael's obsession to lose 8 kilos so he can qualify for a judo competition.
   
   If you are looking for some titillating nudity beautifully filmed in a film that makes a statement about class, this one is for you. It is a cut above the usual low budget films that come out of France faster than we can rent them.
   
   The director makes a short statement, included with the DVD, about what he was trying to do in the film as well.

5 comments about Budo: The Art of Killing.

1. Although a little dated and occasionally slow paced, this is
   a wonderful overview of Japanese martial arts and the martial spirit.



2. I was hoping to get more history on the Samuri but it was basically a documentary on how people are trained in the various martial arts. It wasn't material I hadn't seen before. I would have kids see it.



3. This video is a surprise. The subtitle is completely misleading. The video is an interesting mix of martial arts techniques, the Japanese culture and the relationship to nature. More than any video that I have ever seen, this one capture how much that nature and culture inspired the implementation of Japanese martial arts.
   
   The video gives a broad stroke coverage of most of the best known Japanese martial arts such as Kendo, Karate, Kobudo, Judo, Aikido and Sumo, however it also endeavors to explain how apparently different styles do find a level of integration. This video is definately not a "how to" type of presentation. Instead, it opts to broaden the viewer's understanding of how tightly integrated the Japanese martial arts are to the Japanese cultural mindset. This includes men, women and even children.
   
   I showed this video to my martial arts class, and I asked them to study it, take notes and we then discussed it at the end of the showing. My students, also men, women and children, got it right away. They all saw the connection between mental training and physical discpline. They were both awed and inspired by the physical skills demonstrated. Finally, they immediately understood what it means to be committed to the training.
   
   I should mention that the one sequence that got to everyone, including me when I first saw the video, was the one that includes the locomotive. To explain further would rob the viewer of an amazing visual experience.
   
   All in all, I highly recommend this video to anyone interested in a deeper understanding of not only Japanese martial arts, but of all martial arts. The only weak area that I saw was in some of the flow. It seems a bit jumbled at times. Nevertheless, we can probably consider the video as moving on the road to perfection, but not yet achieving it--just like the subject matter.



4. If you are into MMA & the fighting arts of Japan. Then This DVD is for you! Everything about this film documentary is top notch. I mean EVERYTHING! Buy this. It's about the best I've seen & at a very decent price!



5. Great movie showing in good form the different styles of martial arts of Japan. The slow motion katana slicing action, and the karate master chopping the tops off of glass bottles and splitting an apple with his fingers is.. pure.. awesomeness. The only reason this gets a four out of five is due to the fact that it isn't in HD/Bluray format.

5 comments about Follow That Dream.

1. I believe this is the best movie that Elvis ever made.
   Has a few good laughs in it, and Elvis sings one of my favorite
   Elvis songs "Follow that Dream". If you like Elvis, watch this
   movie.



2. This is one of my favorite Elvis movies. It has a good storyline. E;vis does more acting and less singing for the girls. It's just fun to sit down and watch.



3. Follow that Dream is Elvis at his best. A comparatively early musical effort before the King settled into his more formulaic series of musicals. The movie has Elvis as an 'aw shucks, maam' good ole' southern boy.On outside appearances - not too bright but underneath a tough core with a country smart take on things. Elvis is excellent and his screen presence shows why his movies were far more profitable than such mainstream musicals as 'Camelot' and 'Paint Your Wagon'. Elvis wandering the woods singing 'I Talk to the Trees' would have been an enjoyable, silly pleasure and not the toe curling embarassment that Clint Eastwood made of it in the latter film. Obviously Eastwood has transcended all expectations since then but in musical adventure films no one can surpass the King. Apart from the opening song there are no outstanding musical numbers but the ensemble cast works well with Arthur O'Connell particularly noticeable as the canny patriach and Anne Helm enticing as the romantic interest (both starred in other Elvis movies also). The story moves along well with a nice twist at the end. Great nostalgic movie for a time that probably never existed but should have.



4. 1 NOV: 2007 GREAT FLICK !!! IT'S OBVIOUS THAT THE CRITICS DID NOT PAY ATTENTION TO THE SERIOUSNESS OF THE COURT ROOM SCENE WHEN ELVIS WAS EXPLAINING ABOUT HIS POP TAKING IN THOSE KIDS THAT WERE ZERO RELATION. JUST SO THEY DID NOT WIND UP WARDS OF THE COURT. HE EXPLAINED THE SITUATION. THEN REMINDS THE JUDGE & COURTROOM THAT THIS WHOLE DEAL IS STRICTLY ABOUT THE WELFARE OF THOSE KIDS. THEN HE SAYS TO THE JUDGE, "JUDGE, IF YOU DON'T KNOW THAT, THEN YOU AIN'T NO JUDGE".(that was 1962, wished the judges of today understood that!!)
   THE COMEDY IS SLY, AND GOOD.
   ELVIS PLAYS A ROLE LIKE FROM TIME TO TIME HE IS ABOUT HALF DUMB. DUMB AS A FOX. ABOUT LIKE COLUMBO PLAYS.
   MUSIC IS GOOD.



5. This DVD of Elvis is a must for Elvis fans. Very entertaining and funny with great music.