Computer Chess

Synopsis

Computer Chess is a unique and quirky indie film directed by Andrew Bujalski, set in the early 1980s during a weekend retreat for computer chess programmers. The story chronicles a group of software developers who gather at a remote hotel to test their chess algorithms against each other. As these computer experts and their machines engage in competition, the film explores themes of artificial intelligence, human connection, and the sometimes awkward social interactions among tech enthusiasts. Shot in a vintage black-and-white aesthetic with authentic period technology, Computer Chess blends humor and nostalgia to delve into the early days of computer programming and the quest to simulate human intellect.

Cast

• Patrick Riester

  Bishton

• Myles Paige

  Papageorge

• James Curry

  Carbray

• Robin Schwartz

  Shelly

• Gerald Peary

  Henderson

• 

  Wiley Wiggins

  Beuscher

Reviews

Computer Chess has been generally well-received by critics, praised for its originality and clever approach to storytelling. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an 86% approval rating, highlighting its fresh take on the tech genre and praising the film's authentic black-and-white cinematography and deadpan humor. The site's consensus notes that the film 'turns a niche subject into a surprisingly engaging exploration of human and computer intellect.' On Metacritic, the movie has a solid score of 74, indicating generally favorable reviews. Critics from outlets such as The Guardian applauded the film's nostalgic atmosphere and the way it captures the eccentricity of the characters, noting that it feels like a rare time capsule. However, some viewers found its slow pacing and dry humor to be a bit impenetrable or niche, limiting wider appeal. IMDb users gave it an average rating of 6.2/10, appreciating the movie's unique style but expressing that its unconventional narrative might not resonate with everyone. Overall, Computer Chess is celebrated for its innovative presentation and insightful commentary on technology and human behavior, though it may appeal more to a specialized audience rather than mainstream moviegoers.

See also

Pulp Fiction

Joker

Titanic

Shutter Island