Common Sense Media Review
By Brian Costello
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based on child development research. How do we rate?
age 10+
Inspirational document about “Mozart of Chess”; some bullying.
Not present
What is the story?
Even as a child, Magnus Carlsen seemed lost in deep thought, possessed of an incredible memory and a gift for finding patterns and relationships between the flags of the world. Noticing this, Magnus’ father introduced him to chess at the age of 5. In no time he proved to be a chess prodigy, playing obsessively and eventually becoming a ranked player. While still severely withdrawn and bullied as a teenager and early teenager, Carlsen was also gaining worldwide recognition for his incredibly unique and intuitive style of play, even playing to a draw against legendary chess master Gary Kasparov. This documentary chronicles the growth and development of the “Mozart of Chess”, from a chess-obsessed boy chosen by his peers to his current celebrity status as the world’s top-ranked chess player.
Is it good?
Like its subject, this documentary is unique. Magnus it stands out from many other niche documentaries because it is about much more than chess or even the chess miracle. Ultimately, it’s about what can happen when someone who is “different” from those around them is given the space and freedom to develop their skills to their full potential. This makes the film interesting not only for chess fans, but also for those who don’t know their rooks from their bishops.
And that’s what makes this documentary special. It not only traces the growth of Magnus Carlsen, the chess player, but also Magnus Carlsen, the human being. From an introverted chess-playing teenager who was an easy target for bullies to an internationally known media star (even giving Homer some pointers in The Simpsons episode), Magnus is as much a coming-of-age story as it is a chronicle of an extraordinarily gifted young man’s dizzying rise to the highest rank of chess in the world.
Talk to your kids about…
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Families can discuss documentaries focusing on a particular activity, such as chess, football or cooking. How do documentaries like this try to attract all viewers, not just fans of a certain sport, hobby or profession?
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How were home movies used to tell this story? What would be lost if these home movies were not part of the documentary?
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How does this film deal with bullying between teenagers and teenagers towards those who are considered “different”? Who are some other examples of talented people who were chosen by their peers growing up?
Did we miss something about diversity?
Research shows a link between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews that will be published on an ongoing basis. You can help us help children