The best chess films: our selection

Cinema has often flirted with the mysterious world of chess, attempting to capture the beauty and complexity of this age-old game. But among all these films, one shines particularly brightly: “Searching for Bobby Fischer”. If you’ve never heard of this gem, prepare to be captivated!

The story of a prodigy:

Released in 1993 and directed by Steven Zaillian, “Searching for Bobby Fischer” is based on the real-life story of Joshua Waitzkin, a chess child prodigy. From a very young age, Joshua shows incredible talent for the game, attracting the attention not only of his father but also of Bruce Pandolfini, a chess master. Together, they embark on a fascinating journey through the competitive world of chess.

A world of chess to discover:

The film doesn’t just show chess games. It immerses us in two distinct worlds: fast-paced, impetuous street chess played in New York’s parks, and thoughtful, strategic classical chess played in official tournaments. This duality offers a unique and captivating perspective on the game.

Breathtaking performances:

Max Pomeranc, who plays Joshua, delivers a stunning performance, perfectly capturing the innocence and determination of a young prodigy. Alongside him, Ben Kingsley, in the role of Pandolfini, is simply masterful, embodying both the rigour and the passion of his character.

Why you absolutely must watch it:

“Searching for Bobby Fischer” is not just another film about chess. It’s a story of ambition, passion and human relationships. It shows that the path to success is paved with challenges, but also with love, support and self-discovery. Every scene is designed to keep you on the edge of your seat, every moment invites you to dive deeper into this fascinating world.

If you’re looking for a film that inspires you, moves you and makes you want to discover the world of chess, look no further. “Searching for Bobby Fischer” is the film for you. So, prepare your popcorn, settle in comfortably and let yourself be swept away on this incredible chess journey!

Looking for more chess film ideas?

• “Searching for Bobby Fischer” – This 1993 film is based on the life of Josh Waitzkin, a chess prodigy, and his search for balance between his natural talent for the game and his life as an ordinary child.
• “The Queen’s Gambit” – Technically a mini-series rather than a film, it has been widely acclaimed for its treatment of chess and its exploration of a young woman’s journey through the male-dominated world of chess.
• “Pawn Sacrifice” – A biopic about American grandmaster Bobby Fischer and his legendary match against Boris Spassky in 1972 during the Cold War.
• “The Chess Player” – A 1938 French film set during the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror. It tells the story of a nobleman who escapes execution thanks to his talent for chess.
• “The Luzhin Defence” – Adapted from the novel by Vladimir Nabokov, the film tells the story of a chess grandmaster, Alexander Luzhin, who fights his own demons while competing in a chess tournament.
• “Computer Chess” – An independent comedy set in the 1980s, focusing on a chess tournament between computer programs and their eccentric programmers.
• “Fresh” – Although chess is not the central theme of this film, it plays an important role in the story of a boy who uses chess strategies to navigate life in a tough neighbourhood.
• “Knight Moves” – A thriller in which a chess champion is suspected of being a serial killer, using the game as a motif for his crimes.
• “The Other Dumas” – This film tells the story of writer Alexandre Dumas and his secretary, a passionate chess player, who turned out to be the inspiration for some of Dumas’s most famous writings.
• “Brooklyn Castle” – A touching documentary about a Brooklyn school whose chess team is one of the best in the country, despite the socio-economic challenges its students face.