Back to browse
71% Critic Match
The Chess Players
“Satyajit Ray's First Hindi feature Film”
7.1 / 10• 1977• 2h 9m•NR• Hindi
Drama
Storyline
In the year 1856, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah is the King of Awadh, one of the last independent kingdoms of India. The British intend to control this rich land and send General Outram to clear way for an annexation. Pressure is mounting amidst intrigue and political maneuvers, but the Nawab whiles away his time in pursuit of pleasure and religious practice. The court is of no help either — noblemen Mir and Mirza ignore all duties and spend their days playing endless games of chess.
Cast & Crew
Sanjeev Kumar
Mirza Sajjad Ali
Lead
Saeed Jaffrey
Mir Roshan Ali
Amjad Khan
Wajid Ali Shah
Shabana Azmi
Khurshid
Farida Jalal
Nafisa
Veena
Queen Mother
David Abraham Cheulkar
Munshi
Victor Banerjee
Prime Minister
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Satyajit Ray's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
4.0
“Every frame feels alive. The Chess Players is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
