Watch Art of Fighting
- 2006
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6.6 (649)
Art of Fighting is a 2006 South Korean martial arts film that follows the story of a troublemaker named Kim Sang-min, who moves to Seoul with his mother to live with his grandfather, a former boxing champion. Sang-min is a delinquent who encounters trouble at school and is constantly getting into fights. His grandfather, who runs a boxing gym, sees potential in him and enlists him in a program to train as a boxer.
The film takes its name from the art of fighting, which is a philosophy that the grandfather teaches Sang-min. The art of fighting is not just about physical strength and technique but also about mental discipline and focus. Through his training, Sang-min learns to channel his energy and control his anger.
Along the way, Sang-min meets a girl named Hyo-jin, who is a Taekwondo expert. The two fall in love, but their relationship is complicated by the fact that Hyo-jin has a boyfriend who is a member of a gang. Sang-min's training and his love for Hyo-jin drive him to confront the gang and protect her.
The film explores themes of discipline, determination, and the importance of family. As Sang-min comes to understand the art of fighting, he realizes that it's not just about winning battles but about becoming a better person. He finds strength in himself and the support of his grandfather and Hyo-jin.
The fight scenes in the film are impressive and well-choreographed, showcasing the skills of the actors. The film also incorporates elements of comedy, particularly in the scenes depicting Sang-min's antics and his grandfather's gruff but loving personality.
Overall, Art of Fighting is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that showcases the power of martial arts to transform and empower individuals. It is a beautifully shot film with stunning performances from the cast, particularly Yun-shik Baek as the grandfather, who brings an authenticity and depth to his character.
The film received critical acclaim for its storytelling and the performances of the cast. It was a commercial success in South Korea, grossing over ₩2.2 billion at the box office. The film's director, Han-sol Shin, went on to direct a number of successful films in South Korea, cementing his reputation as one of the country's most talented filmmakers.