My name is Preston Thomas. I am a lifelong martial artist and cinephile. Film Jitsu is my second feature film as a director and my first documentary. It is about the crossover between the worlds of martial arts/grappling and filmmaking/stunts. The project’s journey has taken me from Los Angeles to New York City. I have interviewed and trained with martial artists and stunt performers at every stage of their careers, from ambitious young hustlers making action short films to industry veterans who have worked on blockbusters like the John Wick series. I have also had the honor of interviewing legends and pioneers in the worlds of grappling and MMA, such as Erik Paulson, Rigan Machado, and my sensei Gokor Chivichyan.

The documentary is complete, and we are currently submitting to film festivals. In the meantime, we are hosting a private screening in Los Angeles on September 14, 2024; please send an email to pthomas92@gmail.com if you would like to attend. Also, please sign up for the email list below if you would like to be the first to hear about future screenings and the online release!