Where to Watch "Computer Chess"

"Computer Chess" is an indie comedy-drama that offers a unique and quirky look into the world of computer programming and chess in the early 1980s. Released on January 21, 2013, at the Sundance Film Festival, the film was directed by the talented Andrew Bujalski.

Synopsis:

Set over a weekend in a nondescript hotel, the movie follows a group of computer programmers from different backgrounds and their attempts to create a chess software that can defeat a human chess master.

Amidst the technical challenges, the characters also grapple with personal issues, existential crises, and the peculiarities of the early days of computing. The film is shot in a mockumentary style, giving it an authentic feel of the era it represents.

Cast and Characters:

• Peter Bishton (played by Patrick Riester): A young and introverted programmer who is part of the team working on the chess software. Throughout the film, he faces both technical and personal challenges.
• Michael Papageorge (played by Myles Paige): A self-centered and somewhat eccentric programmer who is always in search of an electrical outlet for his computer and ends up wandering the hotel.
• Shelly (played by Robin Schwartz): The only female programmer in the group, facing the challenges of being in a male-dominated field.
• Dr. Martin Beuscher (played by Wiley Wiggins): A member of the team who often finds himself in bizarre situations throughout the weekend.

Where To Stream

United States:

• Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Hoopla, Criterion Channel, realeyz
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Kino Now (Note: Some platforms are repeated)
• Available for free on: None

Australia:

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fetch TV (Note: Some platforms are repeated)
• Available for free on: None

United Kingdom:

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: BFI Player
• Available for free on: None

Germany:

• Streaming on: realeyz
• Available for purchase on: None
• Available for free on: None

France:

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: Universcine (Note: Repeated)
• Available for free on: None

Canada:

• Streaming on: Hoopla, Criterion Channel
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV (Note: Repeated)
• Available for free on: None

Production Details:

• Director: Andrew Bujalski
• Producers: Houston King and Alex Lipschultz
• Screenplay: Andrew Bujalski
• Filming Locations: The film was primarily shot in Texas, capturing the essence of the early 1980s.
• Budget and Box Office Performance: While the exact budget remains undisclosed, "Computer Chess" was a low-budget film. It garnered attention in indie film circuits and made a modest box office return, given its niche appeal.

Reception and Awards:

• Critical Reception: Critics praised "Computer Chess" for its unique style, authentic portrayal of the era, and its blend of humor and existential thought. The film's black-and-white aesthetic and mockumentary style were particularly highlighted.
• Audience Reception: While the film had a niche audience, those who appreciated it lauded its quirky humor and the nostalgic trip to the dawn of the computer age.
• Awards and Nominations: "Computer Chess" won the Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for several other awards in various film festivals.

Trivia and Fun Facts:

• The film was shot using vintage Sony AVC-3260 tube video cameras to give it an authentic early-1980s feel.
• Andrew Bujalski, known as the "Godfather of Mumblecore," took a departure from his usual style, blending elements of mockumentary, period piece, and surreal comedy in this film.
• There are several Easter eggs throughout the movie that give nods to the early days of computing and the world of chess.
• The film sparked discussions about the evolution of artificial intelligence and its implications in the world of gaming and beyond.