THE MATCH (승부) (NETFLIX) (2025)

SYNOPSIS: When a legendary Go master loses his title to a one-time friend and protégé, he sets out to reclaim it in a high-stakes battle of wits and skill.

MOVIE REVIEW:

The Match tells the compelling story of Cho Hun-hyun (Lee Byung-hun), one of the greatest Go players of all time, and his protégé-turned-rival, Lee Chang-ho (Yoo Ah-in). Spanning the 1980s and 1990s, this handsomely produced drama explores their complex relationship and the shifting balance of power between mentor and student.

The film opens with Cho winning a major international tournament in Singapore, cementing his status as a national icon. Soon after, he discovers a young prodigy, Lee Chang-ho, who astonishes seasoned players with his innate talent. Cho takes him under his wing, determined to shape the boy into the next Go champion.

As time passes, Lee begins to develop his own distinct style—measured and patient, a stark contrast to Cho’s aggressive approach. Their differing philosophies eventually lead to inevitable clashes, both on and off the board. As Lee’s skills evolve, he starts to outshine his mentor, threatening Cho’s reign as the top player in the game.

There’s no doubt that considerable effort has gone into portraying these two legendary figures with emotional depth. Lee Byung-hun delivers a strong performance as the prideful master wrestling with insecurity and the fear of obsolescence. In contrast, Yoo Ah-in’s portrayal of Lee is more subdued and restrained, though at times he seems to lean too heavily into mannerisms that border on a portrayal of someone on the autism spectrum, potentially limiting the emotional nuance of the role.

For those unfamiliar with the game of Go, the mechanics and strategy may remain elusive. The swift flurry of black and white stones across the board might feel cryptic, yet the emotional stakes remain clear. Even without an understanding of the game itself, the audience can appreciate the psychological tension and personal drama at the heart of Cho and Lee’s journey.

Unlike the famously erratic American chess legend Bobby Fischer, Cho and Lee lead relatively reserved lives though real-life scandal did touch the film, with Yoo Ah-in’s ongoing legal issues delaying its release by three years.

Ultimately, The Match is a subdued yet well-crafted meditation on rivalry, legacy, and respect. While it may not elevate Go into the realm of cinematic thrill nor rival the intense drama of the best chess films, it still offers a thoughtful and human look at what it means to face and be surpassed by your own creation.

MOVIE RATING:

Review by Linus Tee