In New Zealand, Genesis Potini (Cliff Curtis) is a former chess player struggling with mental issues. In a rundown gang-infested neighborhood, he teaches the local kids chess and starts a team called The Eastern Knights.
It's a nice performance from Cliff. Obviously, he's a great actor and his good work is not surprising. It's based on a real person. It's a compelling character although the plot isn't much. It needs more from at least one of the kids to hook in the audience. The tournament drama suffers without the kids' background. It needs more from the other actors. Overall, this is a fine character study by an exceptional actor.
It's a nice performance from Cliff. Obviously, he's a great actor and his good work is not surprising. It's based on a real person. It's a compelling character although the plot isn't much. It needs more from at least one of the kids to hook in the audience. The tournament drama suffers without the kids' background. It needs more from the other actors. Overall, this is a fine character study by an exceptional actor.