“Searching For Bobby Fischer” Makes You Want to Buy Chess Sets
‘Searching for Bobby Fischer’ was released in 1993 but still never fails to make an impact on an audience whenever it is viewed. On its initial release, hundreds of cinemagoers reported afterward that they felt compelled to go and buy chess sets which considering the content of the movie is hardly surprising. Unlike a lot of modern films though, ‘Searching for Bobby Fischer’ was not designed with product placement in mind.
The film follows the story of Josh Waitzkin – a typical American boy only interested in playing baseball. That is until one day he challenges his Dad to a chess match and wins. Realising that he’s found something he’s good at, Josh ventures into the outdoor matches held in Washington Square in New York City and quickly makes friends with a chess hustler names Vinnie. Vinnie teaches him ‘speed chess’ whilst Josh’s parents hire a renowned chess coach called Bruce who teaches Josh the value of measured and tactical planning. Like all kids, Josh becomes impatient and tires of Bruce’s system and chess in general and deliberately throws an important match leaving the chances of winning a national championship in serious doubt.