Rating of
3/4
Strategy Under Pressure
Unknown - wrote on 11/13/15
'Pawn Sacrifice' is a biopic of a different breed. We examine the tortured genius of Bobby Fisher during his biggest life event, and arguably the most famous chess game ever. This taught and focused film takes on Fisher's own growing paranoia. Excellent direction and immersive acting bring us closer to Fisher's mindset. Not only how he strategizes in chess, but also in how he becomes more detached from the world in his obsession. Stakes are drawn clearly from the beginning. This is more than just about winning a title. It's about one country besting another. All of that pressure, and Fisher's changing psychology, make this multi-match chess game a tense battle. I never thought I'd be so invested in watching two men play a board game. This is where things shine. The middle portion, anyway. I feel the film is bookended with less engaging scenes that could've been presented differently. The centerpiece is more than worth the few shortcomings.
