Review of Computer Chess (2013) by Christina G — 21 Jul 2013
Andrew Bujalski has a knack for creating films that are in a completely different realm than most others. With his newest movie, Computer Chess, he's really outdone himself. As both writer and director of the film, Bujalaski completely commits himself to this film and the essence of it - shooting the entire film using a 1969 Sony camera.
His interesting choice of equipment is only one component that lends itself to the authenticity of a 1980s documentary. The plot centers on a computer chess programming competition that presumably takes place sometime in the early 80s.
As soon as the opening scene, the audience is immediately transported back in time as lanky men in short ties and thick glasses lug around huge computers. Bujalski is no stranger to mumblecore, and the clumsy dialogue that is so definitive of the genre only contends to the nerdiness of the characters.
It's extremely refreshing to watch a movie that actually requires a high level of engagement, so if you're looking for something to just provide visual stimuli, look past this film.
This review of Computer Chess (2013) was written by Christina G on 21 Jul 2013.
Computer Chess has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
