Ping Pong (2002)

Japanese drama based on a manga about two friends and their love of ping pong. It’s a sports movie on the surface but that’s just a device, it could be any sport, even golf (yawn) and it’d still have a beautifully crafted heartfelt story of friendship and honour beneath.
Dir Sori keeps the story focussed on the players, adding just enough flair when needed. If it was an American production they’d be pulling off impossible shots and I’d have cringed.
It's clear from the beginning what you're going to get, but it won't diminish the enjoyment gained from watching it.
It’s hard to find in the West, but it’s worth the effort.

3½ eyebrows out of 5