Critical Thinking

Based on true history that proves chess is very helpful tools in the schools.

This is definitely one of the best movies I've watched in quite some time. John Leguizamo played a great role as the school teacher and chess coach. I'm so used to seeing him in side roles in dark and shadowy films but his acting as a teacher and chess coach was really good. It's a different role for him and overall this is just a different type of movie that really isn't similar to anything I've ever watch; specifically regarding chess.

Another thing about this movie I like is the vibe - it's one of those movies where the teacher plays a big role in getting the students on the right path while keeping them inspired to stick together as a chess team. One of those "inspired by a sport/game" kind of movies.

Nice film on the true story of young people from the slums trained in chess, and pushed by their teacher to take competitions.

John Leguizamo directs here his first feature film that smacks of the 90s.

Nice to watch.

John Leguizamo is already a legendary character actor too many times type cast in Latinx shady criminal roles, but he has shown so much more over the years. In this film in which he stars, produces and directs he shows the depth of his talent.

This is a real feel good film. It shows a true life story of triumph over adversity in a non-saccharin manner. The story telling avoids cliché and sentimentality. It does not dwell on the darkness of these young people's lives apart from when needed.

A truly remarkable film.

I've always liked movies about teachers fighting to bring out the best of their students. Most of these movies show very dedicated teachers who not only love their job, but go the extra mile for their students. There are a lot of these movies, Stand and Deliver, Good Will Hunting, Dangerous Minds, The Ron Clark Story, just to mention a few; but in this case it involves a game that many may play but not all fully understand its importance beyond the game.

It's great to see how they actually explained chess with historic facts and that the actors played the game for real. It's also important to mention that these kind of movies make a difference in reminding kids to pursue not only their dreams, but most importantly the opportunities that open up to them.

Everybody has a chance to shine in life no matter where you come from or your ethnicity, it's all about wanting it.