If you grew up in the 90s, then you often see people play chess almost everywhere. The popularity of chess increases as the number amount of chess tournaments being held at that time. Looking at the opportunity, the film industry creates many chess-themed films that movie fans and chess fans can enjoy. But what are the best chess-themed films to watch? Without further ado, let’s get into the list.

1. Game Over: Kasparov and the Machine (2003)

Game Over: Kasparov and the Machine was released in 2003 and tell the story of a match between chess king Garry Kasparov against a sophisticated IBM computer called Deep Blue. To make it even more interesting, this film is packaged like a documentary that proves whether humans can beat the intelligence possessed by computers.

2. The Luzhin Defence (2000)

Next is a film titled The Luzhin Defense which was released in 2000. This film tells the story of the journey of a chess master named Luzhin who has a convincing reputation. But when he participated in a chess tournament, he met and fell in love with a woman named Natalia. In the midst of this romance, Luzhin met Valentinov, who had exploited him and became a bad memory.

This film is based on the book by Vladimir Nakobov and directed by Maureen Gorris. This chess-themed film has a very emotional story because it tells the story of two human beings who love each other but must struggle to face obstacles in their own ways.

3. Pawn Sacrifice (2011)

Pawn Sacrifice is a chess-themed Hollywood film and was released in 2011. This film tells the story of the past legendary world champion chess player, Grand Master Bobby Fischer (Tobey Maguire) from the United States. Apart from being known for his prowess, Fischer was also known for his eccentric personality.

Fischer's journey to hold the title as Grand Master was not smooth, because at that time America and Russia had experienced the Cold War. Fischer has to face some of the strongest Russian chess players. To achieve this dream, Fischer even studied Russian.

4. Bobby Fischer Against the World (2011)

Bobby Fischer Against the World is a chess-themed documentary that you must watch. This film tells the story of the journey of a legendary chess player named Bobby Fischer. Unlike Pawn Sacrifice, this film focuses more on Fischer's real journey to face the world's best chess players. Apart from that, there were also exclusive interview sessions for a number of other best chess players, including; Susan Polgar, Garry Kasparov, Larry Evans, and others.

5. Brooklyn Castle (2012)

Next documentary titled Brooklyn Castle which was released in 2012. This film is similar to the documentary True Sight, where it tells the journey of several young chess players from 318 high schools who start their careers as amateur chess players to become great chess players.

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6. The Dark Horse (2014)

The Dark Horse which was released in 2014 is a very inspiring film. Where this film tells the story of a man who is looking for the courage to lead, despite his adversities. This film is inspired by the true story of a speed chess player and coach named Genesis Potini who died in 2011. With his skill, Potini teaches chess to local youth and hopes to deter them from getting involved in gangs and crimes. However, Potini also had to struggle with bipolar disorder, so he often had to stay in hospital.

7. Queen of Katwe (2016)

Queen of Katwe is a film adapted from the novel about a Ugandan chess player named Phiona Mutesi. She grew up in a poor area in an area called Katwe. With a high poverty line, Phiona then often visited the place where chess was taught by Robert Katende. At first, Phiona joined the chess class just to get free food. However, one day the coach realized that Phiona had talent. Furthermore, Phiona also experienced various important events that led to her becoming a professional chess player by winning national and international chess tournaments.

8. Computer Chess (2013)

Computer Chess was released in 2013. This is an independent comedy-drama film written and directed by Andrew Bujalski. This black-and-white film was produced with an analog camera, giving it a classic impression. This film tells the story of a special team of nerds who are participating in a computer programming competition, especially chess games.

9. Fresh (1994)

Fresh was released in 1994. This film has an emotional story about the journey of a 12 years old boy named Michael or nicknamed Fresh. Life is not like a teenager usually, where he has to live in an environment full of drugs and gangsters. Even so, he was inspired by his father's chess lessons, a chess master played by Samuel L. Jackson. Fresh finally plans something to be able to escape and help his drug-addicted sister from their hopeless life.

10. Searching for Bobby Fischer (1993)

Searching for Bobby Fischer is a chess-themed film adapted from a biographical book written by Fred Waitzkin. This film tells the story of his son, Josh Waitzkin, and his chess life. The father realizes that Josh's talent is far from what he imagined. The story of his journey is even more interesting because Josh is finally known as a prodigy who follows in the footsteps of the legendary chess player Bobby Fischer. For your information, Bobby Fischer managed to get the title of the youngest Grand Master at the age of 15.

That’s the list of chess-themed you should watch. Stay tuned for more information about games and don’t forget to follow Dunia Games on Facebook and Instagram. 

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