Synopsis

New York. Max, 10 years old, is happily ensconced at her school but when the opportunity arises for her to switch to the Blackstone Academy, a prestigious private school, she feels obliged to do so. Max doesn’t fit in instantly in the new school, amidst rich and privileged girls. One day she stops by the chess club thinking that someone can teach her how to play but she is humiliated by Isabella, one of her new classmates. On the way home, Max walks by Washington Square Park with its tables full of chess players. One of the players in particular, grizzled and grouchy Norman, catches her eye. She approaches and asks him to teach her how to play. Norman is initially disinclined but Max’s boldness convinces him to give her a chance. Norman has an unusual way of seeing the chess board: for him it’s a reflection of the reality. As her chess expertise grows, Max will be ready to go take responsibility for her choices.