The Match (2025) Movie Review

The Match – Movie Review

First Reaction – The Match excels in sporting rivalry.

Watch The Match on Netflix Now.

Director: Hyeong-ju Kim

Writer: Hyeong-ju Kim (Screenplay)

Cast

  • Lee Byung-hun (I Saw the Devil)
  • Yo Ah-in (Burning)
  • Kim Kang-hoon (Project Wolf Hunting)
  • Hyun Bong-sik (Mouse)
  • Keisuke Hoashi (Godzilla Minus One)

Plot: This recounts the authentic tale of two renowned champions in the game of Go, known as ‘baduk’, namely Cho Hun Hyeon and his prodigy-turned-rival, Lee Chang Ho.

Runtime: 1 Hour 55 Minutes 

There may be spoilers in the rest of the review

Story: The Match commences as top Go player Cho Hun-hyun (Byung-hun), in search of promising talents, stumbles upon young prodigy Lee Chang-ho (Kan-hoon). Impressed by his remarkable ability to comprehend the game, Cho Hun-hyun extends an invitation for further tutelage. His aim is to nurture this raw talent into a champion just like himself.

Over a long period of honing his skills, Lee Chang-ho (Ah-in) starts creating ripples in high-stakes Go competitions. Meanwhile, Cho Hun-hyun gears up to confront him in the grandest tournament with the title of champion at stake. Simultaneously, he’s revolutionizing the approach to playing Go, challenging age-old beliefs about the style of play that has been popular for decades.

Verdict on The Match

Recap

The film chronicles the journey of a master Go player mentoring a promising apprentice. As he uncovers an unprecedented talent within him, he adapts his own playstyle. A bond forms between them as they grow and learn together, with the game undergoing transformation.

Best Parts

In this film, the intense competition between a mentor and his student serves as the main source of tension. It’s a familiar trope, but it’s still captivating to observe. The acting is superbly done, providing insights into their complex relationship. Moreover, the game itself offers an intriguing spectacle as contrasting styles collide, develop, and grow more challenging. This dynamic mirrors what makes sports so engaging – witnessing players adapt to shifting strategies.

Final ThoughtsThe Match is a great story about sporting rivalry.

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2025-05-08 14:17