After seeing "City of Violence" and wanting to check out some of Ryu Seung Wan's previous films, and Choi Min Sik after seeing "Oldboy", this was one of those highly recommended films. And after delaying a purchase for so long due to high costs of Korean imports, IT WAS WORTH EVERY PENNY.

First, I cannot say enough of how well acted this movie is. These guys deserve more credit than is possible for their portrayals of their characters. To have to dig so deep for such emotional scenes and then put themselves through the physical exhaustion of boxing is incredible.

Next, the visual style. As what's become common with Korean film as of late, that dark gritty but yet sharp picture is evident. Lots of gray tones serve this film well and is very pleasing on the eyes.

Third, the action. Rocky Balboa may be the big gun for boxing action, but holy hell it has some stiff competition here. It all looks very real (since a lot of it was). Not to mention a 2 minute scene with no cuts and a camera in the ring with the boxers. Seriously good stuff here.

Lastly, the story is very touching. No matter who you are or what you think of yourself and film, if you don't get emotional by the end, you are dead inside. I'm pretty dead inside myself, but even I can find it within myself to really feel for these guys and get a little choked up here and there with this story.

All I can say is this is a purchase you would never regret. Such a beautiful movie with NO NEGATIVES.