Roger Ebert Home

Giancarlo Esposito

Reviews

Unpregnant (2020)
Stargirl (2020)
Stuck (2019)
Money Monster (2016)
The Jungle Book (2016)
Hate Crime (2006)
Last Holiday (2006)
Ali (2001)
Twilight (1998)
Bob Roberts (1992)
School Daze (1988)

Blog Posts

Far Flungers

The boy who played chess with life

In the middle of Boaz Yakin's "Fresh" (1994), there is the crucial scene that gives us the insight into its hero's plan. While playing chess with his father, he learns a lesson. And then he applies its logic to the real world for his own purpose. However, in the world case, the game is not a simple matter of win or lose. A small false move can result in not a mere checkmate but a dour outcome for him. And (this is one of the most interesting aspects of the film) he is only a 12-year-old kid. He can do it, and we know that, but can he endure to the end?

May contain spoilers