“The Curse” by Benny Safdie and Nathan Fielder: A Daring and Audacious Show Catching Attention
The recent airing of Benny Safdie’s and Nathan Fielder’s unconventional show “The Curse” on Showtime has left audiences both uncomfortable and intrigued. The show, described as daringly bold, absurdist, and rule-breaking, has garnered attention for its unique blend of domestic drama, horror, satire, and docu-fiction.
Fielder, known for his comedic talents, took on the role of director for seven out of the ten episodes of “The Curse,” co-writing all episodes with Safdie. The duo’s collaboration has now caught the eye of A24, with Emma Stone set to reunite with Fielder for a new film project titled “Checkmate.”
Based on a true story, “Checkmate” will delve into the biggest scandal in the history of chess, focusing on the rivalry between Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen and young chess prodigy Hans Niemann. The film will explore the accusations of cheating that rocked the chess world, as well as the evolution of the billion-dollar chess industry.
A24’s aggressive approach to acquiring the film rights, including a time-limited offer that guaranteed seven figures, has raised eyebrows in the industry. Sources reveal that even established filmmakers like Christopher Nolan have taken notice of Fielder’s directing skills, with Nolan himself expressing admiration for the surreal finale of “The Curse.”
With Stone on board as a producer and Fielder set to direct, “Checkmate” promises to be a captivating exploration of ambition, rivalry, and the collision of tradition and innovation in the world of chess. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.