Given the tired repetition of the inspirational teacher formula, the sub-genre has been given a few much-needed tweaks recently. While not as impactful as 2013’s naturalistic Short Term 12, this engaging New Zealand drama makes a strong effort to stand out from the pack. Cliff Curtis plays a bipolar chess genius, inspired by a real-life character, who gives the local kids something to aim for after teaching them the tricks of the game. Oh and yes, there’s a national tournament to prepare for … It’s not heading anywhere you can’t see coming, but there’s a surprising amount of grit to offset any sentimentality, thanks to the film’s treatment of mental health and also a subplot involving gang violence. The script could have done without the odd bout of heavy-handed chess symbolism (“a king for a king”) but it’s a solidly entertaining drama with an intriguingly unconventional lead.
