Cast
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Crew
Director
- George Pearson
Producer
- Anthony Havelock-Allan
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Much better than the average crime caper, this one, and it is odd - and refreshing - to see Donald Wolfit out of his more theatrical guise. An undercover policeman takes up lodgings with a family suspected of involvement in series of jewellery heists. The father "Henry" (Felix Aylmer) is immediately suspicious as he ingratiates himself with one of his daughters and we play a cat-and-mouse game as it appears almost everyone is implicated. It's short and sweet with good performances holding it together.
Jun 19, 2022
Thematic Analysis
Checkmate represents a fascinating example of Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director George Pearson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1935, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Checkmate took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 67 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 120 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The musical score contains over 55 unique compositions.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1935, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Checkmate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Five Broken Cameras, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Checkmate subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Lemon Tree and The Sandlot explore similar territory, Checkmate stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 26, 1935
- Runtime: 1h 7m
