Chess Movie Checkmate: Hollywood Reporter Reveals Plans for Star-Studded Feature Highlighting Controversial Scandal

Chess fans, get ready to see the game back on our screens in a big way! According to the Hollywood Reporter, plans are in motion for a star-studded feature film called Checkmate, which will focus on the alleged cheating scandal involving GM Hans Niemann and GM Magnus Carlsen.

The scandal, which began after a game between the two grandmasters at the Sinquefield Cup in September 2022, rocked the chess world. Chess.com was also dragged into the controversy, facing a $100 million defamation case from Niemann, which was eventually dismissed by the U.S. District Court in June 2023.

The movie will not only delve into the rivalry and scandal between the two players but will also explore the rise of the billion-dollar chess industry and the clash between tradition and innovation in the game.

With a deal reportedly in the seven figures, production company A24 has lined up Hollywood star Emma Stone to produce the film, with Nathan Fielder set to direct. The screenplay will be based on a 12-page book proposal from author Ben Mezrich, known for his work on films like The Social Network.

As we eagerly await more details on Checkmate, one thing is for sure: this movie has the potential to reignite the global interest in chess, much like the success of The Queen’s Gambit. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting project!