New Film 'The Match' Revives Legendary Go Rivalry

The movie 'The Match,' produced in 2021, has finally been released amidst controversies surrounding its lead actor, Yoo Ah-in. This film focuses on the legendary rivalry between two prominent Go players, Cho Hunhyun and Lee Changho, who are set to reignite interest in the world of Go.

In the realm of Go, the title of 'national player' is one of the highest honors, and being called 'Guksu' (국수) signifies exceptional skill and respect. The term 'Guksu' is not just a title; it embodies the prestige and reverence associated with the players, particularly in the context of the Guksu tournament, which is a testament to their prowess and status in South Korea's Go community.

Interestingly, back in 2008, the Kixx team, now known as GS Caltex, made history by holding both Cho Hunhyun and Lee Changho as the 1st and 3rd picks in the Korea Baduk League. This unique moment in history saw the two national players simultaneously on the same team, a fact that has become a significant part of Go's narrative in Korea.

The Kixx team first entered the Korea Baduk League in 2006, achieving immediate success by winning the championship. The following year, after the Mail Dairy team disbanded, Lee Changho became a free agent, and Kixx seized the opportunity to recruit him. In 2008, they also signed Cho Hunhyun as the 3rd pick, bringing both legends together on one team.

Despite the star-studded roster, the Kixx team struggled in the league. They ended their season with one victory after four losses, finishing last among the eight teams—an outcome that became known as the 'Curse of Choi Cheol-han.' The team ranked 7th in 2007 and fell to the bottom in 2008. However, a change in coaching in 2009, with Yang Jaeho taking over, led to a turnaround, as the team secured 3rd place with the addition of rising star Park Jeonghwan.

The film 'The Match' is set against this rich backdrop, exploring the dynamics between Cho and Lee. Lee Byung-hun portrays Cho Hunhyun, who was the first domestic champion at the world's highest Go competition. The film captures the essence of their relationship, depicting the journey of Cho as he takes Lee, a Go prodigy, under his wing. This mentorship is fraught with challenges, as Cho struggles to maintain his dominance in the face of his disciple's rising talent.

In a dramatic turn, Cho loses to Lee in a crucial match by a mere half-point, marking a significant moment in their relationship. This loss sends Cho into a spiral of self-doubt and reflection, as he grapples with the implications of his defeat. The film illustrates how even the mightiest can fall, and how the journey to redemption is often fraught with obstacles.

Director Kim Hyung-joo has crafted a narrative that intertwines the personal and the competitive, showcasing not just the game of Go but the emotional stakes involved. The film's portrayal of the intense mental battles and the silent wars fought on the Go board resonates with audiences, drawing parallels to life itself. It emphasizes the importance of choices, relationships, and the silent struggles that often go unnoticed.

Notably, the film's release faced significant delays due to Yoo Ah-in's involvement in a drug use investigation, which surfaced in early 2023. Despite the potential fallout, the film remained true to its vision, retaining Yoo's role, which speaks to the director's commitment to the story being told.

The chemistry between Lee Byung-hun and Yoo Ah-in is palpable, as they both bring depth to their characters. Lee's portrayal of Cho Hunhyun captures the emotional turmoil of a once-great champion facing his own mortality in the world of Go. Meanwhile, Yoo Ah-in embodies the focused and determined Lee Changho, who, despite the pressure, is resolute in his pursuit of excellence.

The film also employs a unique storytelling technique, rearranging historical events to enhance dramatic tension. While the real-life first encounter between Cho and Lee ended with a narrow victory for Cho, the film opts to depict a scenario where the master falls to his disciple right from the outset. This creative choice amplifies the emotional stakes and sets the stage for the evolving dynamics between the two players.

As the film unfolds, viewers are treated to a visual feast that captures the intricacies of Go, with the sound of stones clacking against the board and the subtle expressions of the players creating a palpable tension. The director's attention to detail transforms the game into a thrilling spectacle, akin to a high-stakes battle.

Ultimately, 'The Match' transcends the realm of sports cinema, delving into the essence of human relationships and the relentless pursuit of greatness. It serves as a reminder that life, much like Go, is filled with unexpected turns, and that victory often comes from resilience and the ability to learn from defeat.

With a running time of 115 minutes, 'The Match' is set to captivate audiences when it premieres on March 26, 2025. This film not only highlights the rich history of Go in South Korea but also pays tribute to the enduring legacy of two of its greatest players, Cho Hunhyun and Lee Changho.