As American Chess Day approaches on September 1st, it’s the perfect time to explore how the “game of kings” has been portrayed in movies. Chess can be both fun and frustrating, as it requires strategy and concentration. Some players can effortlessly see several moves ahead, while others struggle to keep up. Regardless of skill level, the mental edge needed for this game is intense. Let’s take a look at some movies where chess is both a casual pastime and a way of life.
5. Independence Day
In Independence Day, we see a classic scene of old men gathering in the park to drink coffee, smoke cigars or pipes, and play chess on boards or specially-designed tables. David and his dad seem to make a regular thing of this, as it appears laid back and relaxed. However, David knows to expect his father to lecture him about one thing or another. It’s a charming scene that makes you want to find a place like this to spend your days playing chess.
4. The Seventh Seal
In The Seventh Seal, the game of chess serves as a distraction for the knight, who hopes to keep Death at bay and protect those under his care. The stakes are high, and the game is a plot device that adds depth to the story. When the knight upsets the board as a diversionary tactic, Death simply sets it back up and wins on the next move. There’s no cheating Death, after all.
3. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
When we first meet Ron in the Harry Potter series, it’s hard to imagine him as particularly bright. However, when it comes to chess, Ron is a genius. He demonstrates his intelligence and fearlessness in the game, even when it requires making difficult sacrifices. Ron’s character development throughout the series is one of the most surprising and satisfying arcs.
2. Pawn Sacrifice
Obsession can be a problem, especially when it takes over a person’s life and leaves them incapable of functioning normally. In the world of chess, there are countless moves, options, and outcomes to consider. If a player becomes too consumed by the game, they may excel at chess but struggle in other aspects of life. Pawn Sacrifice explores the fine line between passion and madness in the world of competitive chess.
1. The Thing
Anyone who has ever played chess has likely experienced frustration at some point. In The Thing, we see a character lose a game of chess against a computer program and react by pouring a drink into the processor. While this is an extreme response, it highlights the emotional intensity that can come with playing chess. Winning is always more enjoyable than losing, but it’s important to remember that it’s just a game.
So, as you celebrate American Chess Day, enjoy the game but don’t get too carried away.
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