Computer Chess (2013)
I knew from the short description that this was probably bit of a niche and strange movie, but I think it is impossible to be prepared for just how unique this is. Trying to describe will not capture half of it.
Set in the 80s at a computer chess tournament in a bland hotel. Teams of programmers compete against other teams matching their computers against the other team in chess. And if that wasn’t enough of a retro vibe it is shot in black and white using a vacuum tube camera from the 70s. Which could sound like a pretentious experiment but it makes perfect sense for the narrative. The core theme explores the interactions between human and machines and their respective limitations. The various quirks and flaws produced by this type of camera underlines that theme perfectly.
While the general story is easy to follow and some of the conversations the characters have about artificial intelligence and the future for technology, makes it seem pretty straightforward what the message the movie wants to tell could be, but it also throws the viewer in crazy directions that seem to be about something totally different - but it all ties together in a confusing chaotic way. The genre is impossible to define. It has the framework of a mockumentary, nerd comedy, existential horror and science fiction. Reminded me of Clerks and Primer, though that comparison only scratches the surface.
The whole vibe hooked me from the start, especially with how natural and real everything felt. It is hard to believe I was watching actors and not real computer geeks in the 80s. The mannerisms of the attendees and how these super niche tech conventions are held is captured with elegant believability. From the get go there is a slightly spooky undertone of something weird going on with these computers and a very specific scene involving basically just a chat prompt sent shivers down my spine like no other movie has done in recent memory.
It is impossible for me to articulate what made this movie work so well for me. I am sure plenty will just think “what the hell is going on”, and I did too but at the same time I felt I knew exactly what was going on. It is definitely a movie that raises more questions that it answers, but its existential questions about humans place in a world increasingly dominated by computers is very relatable. Particularly now with the rise of large language model AI systems. Add to that the simple joy to see that ground breaking totally unique movies can still be made by small indie teams makes me happy and I cannot not give this anything less than the highest rating.
Rating: 5