Champion (2018 film)

Champion poster

Champion (2018) is a South Korean sports drama film directed by Kim Yong-wan. The movie stars Ma Dong-seok (also known as Don Lee), Kwon Yul, and Han Ye-ri. It tells the story of Mark, a former arm wrestling champion who returns to South Korea from the United States and embarks on a journey to reclaim his past glory. Along the way, he discovers the value of family and friendship. The film explores themes of redemption, perseverance, and the power of human spirit.

Plot

Mark (Ma Dong-seok), once a celebrated arm wrestling champion, has lived in obscurity in the United States after a fall from grace. Seeking to turn his life around, he returns to South Korea at the behest of Jin-ki (Kwon Yul), a hustling sports promoter who dreams of managing a champion. Upon his return, Mark is reunited with his estranged family, including his sister Soo-jin (Han Ye-ri) and her son. As Mark trains for a return to the arm wrestling championship, he faces challenges that test his physical limits and emotional resilience. Through his journey, Mark learns the importance of family and the strength found in second chances.

Cast

• Ma Dong-seok as Mark, a former arm wrestling champion seeking redemption.
• Kwon Yul as Jin-ki, an ambitious sports promoter.
• Han Ye-ri as Soo-jin, Mark's estranged sister.
• Additional cast members include supporting roles that contribute to the narrative's development, focusing on themes of sportsmanship, family, and personal growth.

Production

Directed by Kim Yong-wan in his directorial debut, Champion was produced by Warner Bros. Korea. The film showcases the director's fresh perspective on sports dramas, blending intense physical competition with deep emotional narratives. The casting of Ma Dong-seok, known for his physically imposing presence and nuanced acting, was pivotal in bringing the character of Mark to life. The film's production involved rigorous training for the actors, particularly for the arm wrestling scenes, to ensure authenticity and realism.

Reception

Upon its release, Champion received positive reviews for its heartwarming story and strong performances, particularly Ma Dong-seok's portrayal of Mark. Critics praised the film for its effective blend of sports action and emotional depth. The movie was noted for its ability to engage audiences with its underdog story, while also touching on universal themes of family and redemption.

Themes

Champion delves into several key themes, including:

• Redemption: The protagonist's journey is one of seeking redemption, not just in the realm of sports, but also in personal relationships.
• Perseverance: The film highlights the importance of perseverance in overcoming life's obstacles and achieving one's goals.
• Family: At its core, Champion is a story about the rediscovery of family bonds and the unconditional support that family provides.

See Also

• Sports drama
• South Korean cinema
• Ma Dong-seok