Checking the King

The story revolves around two men engaged in a chess game, highlighting their contrasting backgrounds. One player is a country boy who discovers his chess talent, while the other is a former lawyer who hasn't played in two decades.

The lawyer recounts his harrowing past during World War II, when he was unjustly imprisoned. In a moment of desperation, he steals a chess book from an officer, leading him to practice the game against himself. This intense focus on chess ultimately leads him to a nervous breakdown, adding layers to the film's dramatic tension.

With its unique focus on chess and character development, Checking the King provides a thought-provoking exploration of strategy and mental strain. The film's historical context and psychological themes could appeal to collectors interested in TV movies from the early 1970s, particularly those that delve into the human condition through games.