Where to Watch "The Dark Horse"

"The Dark Horse" is a poignant New Zealand drama film that offers a deep dive into the world of chess and the human spirit's resilience. Released on July 17, 2014, the movie was directed by James Napier Robertson.

Synopsis:

Based on a true story, "The Dark Horse" chronicles the life of Genesis Potini, a Maori speed-chess champion who suffers from bipolar disorder. After being released from a mental institution, Genesis finds purpose in mentoring a group of underprivileged children, teaching them chess.

The film captures his journey as he battles personal demons, societal expectations, and gang influences to lead these children to the National Chess Championships.

Cast and Characters:

• Genesis Potini (played by Cliff Curtis): The protagonist, Genesis is a brilliant chess player with a troubled mind. His passion for the game and genuine care for the children he mentors become his saving grace.
• Mana (played by James Rolleston): A young boy caught between the world of chess, mentored by Genesis, and the pressures of his family's gang affiliations.
• Ariki (played by Wayne Hapi): Genesis's brother and a gang leader, Ariki struggles to understand and support Genesis's ambitions for Mana and the other children.

Where to Stream

United States (US):

• Streaming on: fuboTV
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, FlixFling, Spectrum On Demand
• Available for free on: None

Australia (AU):

• Streaming on: Beamafilm
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Fetch TV, Beamafilm, Quickflix Store
• Available for free on: None

United Kingdom (GB):

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Rakuten TV
• Available for free on: None

Germany (DE):

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV
• Available for free on: None

Canada (CA):

• Streaming on: None
• Available for purchase on: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, FlixFling, YouTube
• Available for free on: None

Production Details:

• Director: James Napier Robertson
• Producers: Tom Hern
• Screenplay: James Napier Robertson
• Filming Locations: The film was primarily shot in Gisborne, New Zealand, capturing the raw beauty and gritty reality of the region.
• Budget and Box Office Performance: While the exact budget remains undisclosed, "The Dark Horse" was a modestly budgeted film. It garnered significant attention in New Zealand and internationally, making it a box office success, especially considering its indie status.

Reception and Awards:

• Critical Reception: Critics praised "The Dark Horse" for its compelling storytelling, authentic performances, especially by Cliff Curtis, and its portrayal of mental health and societal issues. The film holds a high rating on Rotten Tomatoes and other review aggregators.
• Audience Reception: The movie resonated with audiences, both for its emotional depth and its uplifting message of hope and perseverance. Many viewers appreciated its genuine representation of Maori culture and the challenges faced by the community.
• Awards and Nominations: "The Dark Horse" received numerous awards and nominations, including Best Film and Best Actor for Cliff Curtis at the New Zealand Film Awards.

Trivia and Fun Facts:

• Cliff Curtis, who played Genesis Potini, underwent a significant transformation for the role, gaining weight and immersing himself in the world of chess.
• The real-life Eastern Knights chess club, where Genesis Potini coached, was actively involved in the film's production, ensuring authenticity in the portrayal of the chess scenes.
• The film's title, "The Dark Horse," not only refers to an unexpected contender in a competition but also subtly hints at Genesis's struggles with his mental health.
• There were no major controversies related to the movie, but its release did spark conversations about mental health awareness and the importance of community support in New Zealand.