Through the Mirror of Chess is a four-part docuseries exploring the cultural elements of Chess. While many documentaries look at chess from a purely historical standpoint, Through the Mirror of Chess brings some of these historic facts—and suppositions—into a new light while combating the Hollywood oversimplification of chess.
Episode one examines the history of games and the meaning of play within both culture and biology. Episode two delves into the history and culture of chess from its beginnings as an Indian war game of the elite to the formation of the most recognizable European form we still play today. Episode three examines the early-modern advances in the game and how the study of chess created the idea of the chess master. Episode four contains the most expert interviews and attempts to use chess as a mirror to examine modern society, using techniques and risk/reward assessment by modern players to gain insight into the values of our society.
While Through the Mirror of Chess is a fantastic and informative documentary series, it is quite dense and occasionally dry. Those with no background in chess will find themselves overwhelmed with incredibly specific information, and even those with background knowledge will find some segments information-heavy. This complaint aside, Through the Mirror of Chess is an outstanding documentary series that is incredibly thought-provoking and informative.
The first episode is an excellent primer for anyone learning the game, as the folks at Ideas Roadshow did a perfect job dispelling the many myths Hollywood and other cultural powerhouses have built up over the last century. Episode two will appeal most to the history nerds among your patrons with its excellent examination of Chess’ first millennia. The third episode was made just for chess fanatics, as it discusses famous games and ever-evolving strategy. Episode four is incredibly philosophical at times, appealing to those involved in the soft sciences and media analysis. This series provides incredible cost value: Four distinct hour-long episodes with varied appeal and structure. Through the Mirror of Chess has as much place in the classroom as it does public library documentary shelves. Highly Recommended.
What college professors could use this title?
Those teaching chess, history, media or literature analysis, and gamification will find the most use in Through the Mirror of Chess.
Where does this title belong on public documentary shelves?
Through the Mirror of Chess belongs among other cultural and chess documentaries.