From the very beginning, life for Kaoru Matsumoto has been anything but easy. Born into a fractured family, Kaoru’s upbringing is marked by struggle and sacrifice. Despite having a father, he is more of a looming shadow than a supportive figure. His obsession with money overshadows any parental duties, leaving Kaoru's mother to bear the brunt of his financial irresponsibility. She works tirelessly, not only raising Kaoru and her sibling but also repaying her husband's loans. This fractured dynamic creates a tense atmosphere in Kaoru's childhood, forcing her to mature quickly.
But beneath the hardship, Kaoru is anything but weak. Even as a young girl, she displays a quiet strength, a resilience that stands as a testament to her inner will. This is evident early on, as she navigates her tough childhood with a determined mindset, refusing to be broken by her circumstances. Her life, however, takes a profound turn when she stumbles upon the world of women’s professional wrestling.
What initially appears to be an escape soon transforms into Kaoru’s calling. Wrestling is not just a sport; it is a world where Kaoru can harness her strength, both physical and emotional. For the first time, she finds clarity about her future, discovering a purpose that electrifies her spirit. The film captures this pivotal moment beautifully, as we witness Kaoru's realization that wrestling is the path she was meant to walk.
Choosing the life of a professional wrestler, Kaoru steps into a world that demands as much grit as her childhood did. She passes the initial selection process, showcasing her innate talent and dedication. But the road ahead is steep, and the series doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities that come with her decision. Wrestling is not a glamorous sport—it’s grueling, both physically and emotionally. Kaoru must push her body to its limits while navigating the often cutthroat environment of the wrestling world.
What stands out is Kaoru's perseverance. Her journey is not one of immediate success; instead, it’s a slow, painful climb where every victory is hard-won. The series doesn't paint Kaoru as a flawless hero but as someone deeply human—vulnerable, yet unyielding. Her character arc is grounded in real emotion, making her triumphs feel deeply earned.
Ultimately, the question of how Kaoru will navigate her future remains at the heart of the film. Will she succeed in the cutthroat world of professional wrestling? How will she balance the pressures of her new career with the lingering shadows of her past? Queen of Villains leaves viewers rooting for Kaoru, not just as a wrestler but as a person on a journey to redefine herself. The show also reveals how she dealt with Crush Gals.
“Queen of Villains” is more than just a sports drama; it’s a story of perseverance, of finding one’s purpose amid chaos, and of battling through adversity when the odds seem insurmountable. Kaoru Matsumoto's journey is inspiring, offering a raw and honest portrayal of what it takes to chase a dream. This five-episode drama leaves no stone unturned in finding the truth.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times