Deseret News | Movie review: Searching for Bobby Fischer

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Searching for Bobby Fischer

Paul Skousen | 1:16 p.m. Sept. 10, 1998

Outstanding story about the innocence of children, over-zealous parents, the true foundations of joy and fulfillment, and the misques in handling the delicate balance between talent, fame and greed. My whole family enjoys watching this over and over, each member taking away from the movie a life's lesson that once employed, has always benefitted. And, the fact that it is based on a true story, greatly amplifies the impact of the villians and the heros and the consequences of their actions. Good for all ages (our 3-year-old paid attention, too!).

mawashimj | 5:39 p.m. Oct. 26, 1998

My husband and I have seen this movie several times. It is
on again oct. 29th at 6:00pm and we plan to tape it. as
former teachers we feel the lessons are limitless from all
schools of thought.

Wm. Lyles | 2:41 a.m. June 11, 1999

This movie was impressive, Josh got my attention when he
played his father from the tube, Josh was schooled from hard
knocks in the park, also Josh showed how being open minded
really gave versitality.
Josh showed this by applying moves learned from the park in
his final match, and still held honor with his teacher by
applying the tactics learned.

His ability was phenominal, and it also shows the
tough side of being the best. The training and the
sacrifices made, stand out in the middle of the movie. My
children, I believe learned and respected the changes they
saw Josh go through.

Comments continue below

Emily Butler | 6:15 p.m. July 2, 1999

I really enjoyed this movie! I get so tired of sports films
that put the sport in front of family or other interests,
so it was a treat to see this film. I liked how Josh's
character was a sweet boy who understands what really
matters in life better than most adults do. I was also
pleased to discover that the adults in the movie came to
see things his way as well. This movie was low-key but
gripping, and the acting from everyone, particularly the
child star, was wonderful. (George Lucas, take note!) I
would highly reccommend this movie to anyone.

Normand Gauthier | 1:20 a.m. Aug. 8, 1999

Excellent, I enjoyed every moment of the movie. I love the
game of chess, I play online at ICC=chessclub.com. Although
I can not play on that level, the movie is a must see for
all who love the game and the challenge. The end game can
make my heart beat like I ran 5 miles full speed.

Kitty Blair | 8:47 a.m. Aug. 23, 1999

This movie was very inspirational as a parent. We
especially enjoyed watching how the parents individually
evolved and handled their son's gift. The deeper meaning
of
this movie, staying true to your beliefs about goodness and
fairness, is perfectly clear to children, too. The best
part is that it is based on true life and real people.
Bravo.

alan mandel | 9:12 p.m. Sept. 16, 1999

This is a fantastic movie. It shows the conflict that a
parent faces when s/he is presented with a child who is a
prodigy at something, in this case, chess. Josh's parents
need to decide just how far to push him and they also need
to attempt to balance chess w/the other aspects of his
life. The movie also shows how parents can get wrapped up
in the child's success, and the danger of making their love
conditional on the child winning.

Excellent performances by all. There is also an
interesting subplot dealing w/the 2 schools of thought and
the competition between the teachers that Josh is
instructed by.

Ron | 8:45 p.m. March 13, 2000

I say 5 Stars this movies is totally amazing i would
recommend this movie to all those who love the game and
appreciate it. i play for my school chess club and
appreciate my coach telling us to watch this movie the
young actor Max Pomeranc did a wonder ful job as Josh and
all the character we awesome it is a great movie and
provides family with insights on the game. Overall a great
movie and a must see for all.

RTist | 4:47 p.m. Aug. 3, 2000

I never tire of this movie. I watch it every few months and
there is always a 'look' I have somehow missed. So much
transpires between the characters eyes that language is
hardly ever needed. Ben Kingsley is a Grand Master in his
own right at 'eye talk'. The young Josh shows unlimited
acting decipline. Great directing. This will continue to
one of my all time favorite movies.

brianna | 3:18 p.m. Feb. 2, 2002

I think this movie is just amazing! The story line is
great! I would caution those who dont no the rules of
chess some parts of the movie may be confusing!!!

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Movie Info

Rated PG for profanity.

Cast: Joe Mantegna, Laurence Fishburne, Joan Allen, Max Pomeranc, Ben Kingsley.

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