Great insight into the talent and mind of a tortured genius

Rating: 8/10 (10 August 2019)

A dramatization of the life of Bobby Fischer, one of the greatest chess players of all time. While covering his early life and chess career, focuses largely on the 1972 World Chess Championship match between Fischer and the reigning champion Boris Spassky.
Great movie. Shows well Bobby Fischer's exceptional talent for chess and also the mental issues that seemed to be part and parcel of this genius.
Always interesting but not consistently engaging though. Coverage of Fischer's childhood and early career give a decent background to how his talent and personality and mental issues developed but aren't compelling viewing. However, when the movie reaches the 1972 World Championship Match it shifts into top gear and becomes incredibly engrossing viewing.
Great performance by Tobey Maquire as Fischer. Solid supporting cast that includes Liev Schreiber (as Spassky), Michael Stuhlbarg and Peter Sarsgaard.
For an even greater insight into the talent, mind and personal demons of Bobby Fischer watch 'Bobby Fischer Against The World' (2011). Superb documentary.