Plot
Josh Waitzkin is just a typical American boy interested in baseball when one day he challenges his father at chess and wins. Showing unusual precocity at the outdoor matches at Washington Square in New York City, he quickly makes friends with a hustler named Vinnie who teaches him speed chess. Josh's parents hire a renowned chess coach, Bruce, who teaches Josh the usefulness of measured planning. Along the way Josh becomes tired of Bruce's system and chess in general and purposely throws a match, leaving the prospects of winning a national championship in serious jeopardy.
Written by
Fred Waitzkin, Steven Zaillian
Directed by
Steven Zaillian
Crew
Production Countries
United States of America
Production Companies
Paramount, Scott Rudin Productions, Mirage Enterprises
Languages
English
Awards
Nominated for 1 Oscar. 6 wins & 11 nominations total