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Poster for The Chess Players

The Chess Players

Satyajit Ray's First Hindi feature Film

1977 · 2h 9m · NOT RATED Drama
Directed by Satyajit Ray

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Overview

In the year 1856, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah is the King of Awadh, one of the last independent kingdoms of India. The British intend to control this rich land and send General Outram to clear way for an annexation. Pressure is mounting amidst intrigue and political maneuvers, but the Nawab whiles away his time in pursuit of pleasure and religious practice. The court is of no help either — noblemen Mir and Mirza ignore all duties and spend their days playing endless games of chess.

Director and cast

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Top critics, in their words

All reviews
88%
Tomatometer
Fresh

Ray's film is an incisive dissection of culture shock and class privilege.

Michael Atkinson, Village Voice

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