How to Win at Checkers (Every Time)

Based on a pair of short stories by novelist Rattawut Lapcharoensap, How to Win at Checkers (Every Time) is a tender and emotionally raw tale set in 1990s Bangkok. The rampant sex industry associated with that city during those years lies more on the margins of this drama, which centers on the awakening of an 11-year-old boy named Oat (Ingkarat “Ryu” Damrongsakkul) to the consequences of poverty, corruption, and crime on humble lives. An orphan living with his aunt, Oat looks to his older brother, Ek (Thira Chutikul), to be a mentor and guide, but complicating matters is Ek's relationship with a boyfriend, Jai (Arthur Navarat), who comes from a wealthy family. Surrounded by privilege, Jai is protected from an upcoming draft lottery (perks not available to Ek). When Oat tries to help his brother improve the latter's chances in the lottery, his efforts backfire, making matters worse. Featuring strong performances, filmmaker Josh Kim's mesmerizing drama was Thailand's submission for Best Foreign Language Film. Recommended. (T. Keogh)