Is Matsu to One Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2025)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Matsu to One (2025), audiences are invited back into the world of History. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "In March 2025, "Matsu to One" was performed at the Noto Theater in Nanao City, Ishikawa Prefecture, to pray for the recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Matsu (Riho Yoshioka), the wife of Toshiie Maeda, whose husband served Nobunaga Oda, and One (Misako Renbutsu), the wife of Hideyoshi Toyotomi, vowed a long-lasting friendship to each other when they were young. However, after Hideyoshi's death, Toshiie soon passed away, and the course of the country's history was pushed forward to the Battle of Sekigahara. Matsu and One were supposed to be bound by a firm friendship, but their bond is unexpectedly shaken in the midst of the conflict."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. In Matsu to One, Riho Yoshioka delivers a performance that anchors the emotional weight of the film. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good History. The cinematography and score further amplify the experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Matsu to One worth your time? If you appreciate History films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2025, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Matsu to One is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 90 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.