Sho Kosugi
ActingAbout Sho Kosugi
Sho Kosugi (born Shōichi Kosugi; June 17, 1947) is a Japanese martial artist with training in shindō jinen-ryū karate who gained popularity as an actor during the 1980s, usually playing a ninja. He is the father of Kane Kosugi and Shane Kosugi. After taking a hiatus from film, he started a taiko group in California. In Japan, he also runs an internationally oriented group of martial arts acting schools known as the Sho Kosugi Institute. It is common for Kosugi to have his sons co-star in movies when the plot includes family relations. Films in which Kosugi's sons perform alongside their father include Black Eagle, Revenge of the Ninja, and Kabuto (aka Shogun Warrior).
Sho Kosugi Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Sho Kosugi reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 19 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Sho Kosugi's work falls within the Action genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 26% of Sho Kosugi's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains The Master Ninja 5, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Sho Kosugi Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Sho Kosugi's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Sho Kosugi has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009 | Ninja Assassin | Ozunu | Hit | Similar → |
| 1993 | Dark Society in the East | Larry Matsuda | Average | Similar → |
| 1991 | Journey of Honor | Daigoro Mayeda | Flop | Similar → |
| 1989 | Blind Fury | The Assassin | Hit | Similar → |
| 1988 | Black Eagle | Ken Tani | Flop | Similar → |
| 1988 | Aloha Summer | Yukinaga Konishi | Flop | Similar → |
| 1987 | Rage of Honor | Shiro Tanka | Average | Similar → |
| 1985 | 9 Deaths of the Ninja | Spike Shinobi | Flop | Similar → |
| 1985 | Pray for Death | Akira Saito | Average | Similar → |
| 1985 | The Master Ninja 5 | Okasa | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1984 | Ninja III: The Domination | Yamada | Average | Similar → |
| 1984 | Master Ninja II | Okasa | Hit | Similar → |
| 1984 | Master Ninja | Okasa | Flop | Similar → |
| 1983 | Revenge of the Ninja | Cho Osaki | Average | Similar → |
| 1981 | Enter the Ninja | Hasegawa | Average | Similar → |
| 1978 | The Bad News Bears Go to Japan | Kata Demonstrator (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1976 | Bruce Lee Fights Back from the Grave | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1976 | Bruce Lee Fights Back from the Grave | Suzuki (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1974 | The Godfather Part II | Passerby in Coat with Cap Pulled Down (uncredited) | Super Hit | Similar → |
Sho Kosugi - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Sho Kosugi?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Sho Kosugi is "The Master Ninja 5" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Sho Kosugi acted in?
Sho Kosugi has been featured in at least 19 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Sho Kosugi?
Other notable films include "The Godfather Part II", "Master Ninja II", and "Ninja Assassin".