The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.
- Oelmy 'Ito' Paniagua
- (as Jorge Lendeborg)
- Rodelay Medina
- (as Angel Bismark Curiel)
- Director
- Writer
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaMartinez started the after-school chess club in 1992 after his teacher's lounge rounds of chess with another teacher sparked student interest. His playing partner left the school that year and students began challenging him to matches so the club was born.
- GoofsDuring Ito's game at the regional tournament, both Ito and Martinez say that he is in "Zugzwang". However, in a real "Zugzwang" situation, a player loses only because he is forced to make a move, while Ito lose the same way even if it was his opponent's time to move, as he could take the pawn on d3 with the queen.
- Quotes
Mr. Martinez: All right, now, people, this is gonna be very basic for some of you, but for the fish, or the newbies as I like to call you, this is gonna be eye opening because what you've got is 64 squares, 32 pieces, it doesn't matter how rich or poor you are, what Ivy League school you may go or you may not go to, what prison you hopefully never set foot in, because chess is the great equalizer.
- Crazy creditsOver the credits, there are interviews with the real people who the movie is based on.
- SoundtracksWhat Would You Do
Written by Timothy McNealy
Performed by Timothy McNealy
Published by Afrika Kuruvilla Kurian, BMI
Admittedly, there could have been more in the way of character development (Sed's dad and Ito's backstory, for instance) and the minor plot (involving Ito and Andre) trails off a bit leaving the audience with more than a few questions. John Leguizamo inhabits his role as the teacher/coach as per usual and delivers an outstanding performance both as an actor and director. Also, Corwin C. Tuggles' portrayal of Sed was on point and, in my opinion, demonstrates his abilities as a serious dramatic actor and one to watch for the future.
All in all, whether you are a grandmaster or never played chess in your life, there is a lot to love about this heartwarming tale of resilience and overcoming adversity.
- richard-teemal-172-789865
- Sep 6, 2020
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Details
Box office
- Budget
- $3,000,000 (estimated)
- Gross worldwide
- $20,322
- Runtime1 hour 57 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 2.39 : 1