The Royal Game
Watch Trailer1938. While the Nazi troops march into Vienna, the lawyer Josef Bartok hastily tries to escape to the USA with his wife but is arrested by the Gestapo. Bartok remains steadfast and refuses to cooperate with the Gestapo that requires confidential information from him. Thrown into solitary confinement, Bartok is psychologically tormented for months and begins to weaken. However, when he steals an old book about chess it sets him on course to overcome the mental suffering inflicted upon him, until it becomes a dangerous obsession.
Watch online
Click to play
📋 Film Details
| Original Title | Schachnovelle |
| Year | 2021 |
| Country | Austria, Germany |
| Genre | History, Drama, War, Thriller |
| Director | Philipp Stölzl |
| Runtime | 110 min. |
| Rating | TMDB: 6.9/10 (153 votes) |
📺 Where to Watch
Unfortunately, we couldn't find any official platforms or free sites for this title yet.
Try finding similar movies with our AI-powered search
🎬 MovieFinder's Take
The film doesn't rush. It trusts the viewer — gives time to inhabit the characters, understand what's really happening. Direction here serves the actors rather than overwhelming them.
This film doesn't entertain — it speaks. If you're ready for that, it'll leave a mark. If not — it'll seem slow.
A good choice for those who value subtle direction and honest performance.
Director: Philipp Stölzl
— MovieFinder Editorial
Best Watched
Viewing atmosphere: Unhurried, on a weekday evening. Put down the phone, let the film work.
🎭 Cast
💬 Audience Reviews
Audience Score
Write a Review
Quick rating — tap to vote:
Or write a full review: