Perfect Match

A surprising and revealing true (kinda) story about the hard demands of excellence on the lives of two world champions. It looks at the way their families, characters and motivation all contribute to their trajectory in sport and outside it.

These are lovely characters, drawn carefully, played well, with a rich backing cast, good dialogue, nice production values, and lots of rewarding narrative moments. We get a very credible glimpse behind the fame and what we think we know.

The story of two famous sportspeople finding their kindred spirit, happiness, unexpectedly, against the odds, is an interesting journey: And they do that here, really well. This is not a sports movie, or not primarily a sports movie, it is a romance.

I LOVED IT. RECOMMENDED.

Film blends fact and fiction with weight on fiction, framing their love as a path to liberation from their demanding fathers and the expectations of them, the public, the media and to themselves.

Growing up, I loved watching both Graf and Agassi play and often wondered about their personal lives. I was truly amazed when I learned that they were married and living a deeply private life, away from the media spotlight.

The film shows that Graf and Agassi were destined for each other due to their similar upbringings, driven by ambitious fathers to excel in tennis. Despite charming and imaginative scenes, it is disappointing that Graf and Agassi declined to participate in the film's creation, which could have added authenticity and depth.

Gallenberger captures their dynamic well: Steffi, the disciplined German, and Andre, the flamboyant American, complement each other perfectly.

And this is why my Jaw dropped, when I read the news, that they are together. However, the film's portrayal of their careers often is predictable, especially if you know german cinema.

A friend once told me, "German cinema? It's either Nazi stories or cumbersome comedy films around romance."

If there were an Academy Award (Oscar) for a film. It would be Oscar for supporting role to Michael Kessler.

Known for his comedy projects on TV, Michael Kessler surprises and impresses in a completely different role, playing Peter Graf. He delivers an outstanding performance, bringing depth to the demanding and complex character of Steffi's father.

I miss some of the 'promo material.' I would have loved to hear more from Lena Klenke and Toby Sebastian about their thoughts on the film and, for instance, how the chemistry between them was. I really enjoyed their performances. I'm generally glad that the actors did a very good job because it makes up for the cliché aspects. Even the minor roles come across well in German (e.g., Heidi Graf).

In conclusion, "Perfect Match" is a delightful watch for romantics and people who watched both on tv, though it misses the deeper connection that Graf and Agassi's involvement could have provided.

Or whatever it is they say during Tennis matches - so no pun intended. Have to admit, I did not expect much with this one. But since I did follow both those players throughout their careers I was a bit curious. Not like I knew or wanted to know what went on in their private lives. And the movie itself says that it did not stick entirely to the truth - so I reckon certain things are a bit exaggerated.

Still weird to have another dad who is quite hard on his daughter - different than the Williams dad in many areas and degrees - but still quite pushy. And with other issues and problems. Steffi always felt a bit like ... she was without emotions. In this sentiment I do believe the movie, that she was just more private about it.

And while I had to adjust a bit, the actors portraying real life people, do look like them - some more than others! Brooke Shields (the actress portraying her) is spot on! Also the only one who is showing a little bit of skin (it's a German production - no real nudity though) during a love making scene.

But this is more about two seemingly different people ... having a lot in common ... way more than one would suspect! And according to the end credits, they are still living their best life ... way more privately now.

The movie is light and funny - and has passages in German - which makes sense considering Steffi would not talk English with her parents. Great acting and really the definition of a feel good movie (with hurdles and all to overcome as always) ...