Algorithms, Director Ian McDonald

Algorithms film poster 

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In India, a group of boys dream of becoming Chess Masters, driven by a man with a vision. But this is no ordinary chess and these are no ordinary players. Algorithms is a documentary on the thriving but little known world of Blind Chess in India. Filmed over three years, Algorithms travels with three talented boys and a totally blind player turned pioneer to competitive national and world championships and visits them in their home milieu where they reveal their struggles, anxieties and hopes. Going beyond sight and story, this observational sport doc with a difference moves through the algorithms of the blind chess world challenging the sighted of what it means to see. It allows for the tactile and thoughtful journey that explores foresight, sight and vision to continue long after the moving image ends. Writer / Editor / Director Ian McDonald talks about traveling the world to capture the struggles, anxieties and hopes of the chess players Anant, SaiKrishna, Darpan and their mentor / teacher Charudatta.

For news and updates on Algorithms go to: algorithmsthedocumentary.com/

“Algorithms is a wonderful film – beautiful to watch, engrossing, with great characters and a brilliant insight into their world.” – Nick Broomfield, Filmmaker, UK.

“What a huge viewing pleasure! Algorithms is absolutely wonderfully shot, impeccably edited and with a range of engaging characters all of whom are portrayed with charm, wonderful insight and immense humanity.” – John Akomfrah, Filmmaker, UK.

“I loved this film. It is all that a documentary should be. Unobtrusive and compassionate without being sentimental, sympathetic without being condescending. In short, very good.” – Shyam Benegal, Filmmaker, India.

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