directed by: Marleen Gorris, year: 2000
actors: John Turturro, Emily Watson, Geraldine James, Stuart Wilson

The Luzhin Defence is a film adaptation of Vladimir Nabokov's novel, set in the late 1920s, revolving around a chess grandmaster, Alexander Luzhin. As he competes in a prestigious tournament in Italy, Luzhin becomes entangled in a romantic relationship with Natalia, a Russian expatriate. The film explores themes of obsession, genius, and love, as Luzhin struggles with his inner demons and societal expectations while trying to win the tournament and maintain his relationship.

Drama, Romance, Chess, Psychological, 1920s