A24 made headlines in Hollywood on May 1 when they secured the rights for a feature package titled Checkmate, outbidding major players like Amazon, Warner Bros., Netflix, and Apple. The deal, reportedly in the seven figures, involved a 12-page book outline, translating to over $83,000 per page. Sources revealed that A24's offer, which included a 30-minute timer, swiftly clinched the deal, surprising industry insiders.
Checkmate, to be directed by Nathan Fielder, will depict the intense rivalry between chess grandmasters Magnus Carlsen and Hans Niemann, with Emma Stone and Dave McCary producing under Fruit Tree. While Fielder's previous work with A24 on The Curse showcased his talent for unsettling dramedy, Checkmate's subject matter diverges from his usual themes of media and reality.
The book outline for Checkmate comes from Ben Mezrich, known for his non-fiction narratives on economics, tech, and billionaires. Mezrich's previous works, such as Dumb Money and The Social Network, have been adapted into successful films, indicating the potential for another compelling cinematic adaptation.
Fielder's directorial style, characterized by a nightmarish sense of absurdity, has garnered critical acclaim in projects like The Rehearsal. While Checkmate may seem like a departure from his usual focus, industry observers are eager to see how Fielder will bring his unique vision to this new venture.
The collaboration between A24, Fielder, and Stone on The Curse demonstrated their ability to create thought-provoking content, setting high expectations for Checkmate. As details on casting and production unfold, audiences can anticipate another memorable project from this talented team.
