Will Smith in Chess movie

[Radewart]

There has been buzzing about another chess movie in the works. The chess community may remember that the book, "I Choose to Stay" was unveiled with great fanfare and became a best-seller. Disney took an interest in the story and is currently in negotiations to develop a script for a movie. However, progress has been gradual and Salome Thomas-EL has been on a whirlwind tour to discuss the book and the story therein. The reaction has been one of enthusiasm and support.

Thomas-EL visited McMinniville, Oregon where he discussed his story of triumph and how chess played a role in positively shaping the lives of inner-city youth. Despite what websites are reporting, Will Smith has not agreed to play the lead role. Initial negotiations are underway while the script is being developed. An interesting discussion has blossomed on Mig Greengard's Daily Dirt, a popular web blog. Posting a lengthy reply, Thomas-EL clarified the confusion:

"I stated in Oregon that I was meeting with Will Smith to discuss his interest in my movie. I never said Will would play me because we don't have the script yet. I have sent emails to several web sites asking for a correction. It is unfair to Will to communicate that message."

Certainly, chess enthusiasts will be waiting in anticipation for a movie rendition of "I Choose to Stay." Integrating chess in the educational curricula has become a hot agenda item for many schools across the nation. Figures such as Thomas-EL and GM Maurice Ashley are loud voices trumpeting this tune. Ashley has recently released a book titled, "Chess for Success" which affirms the story told by Thomas-EL.

link: http://www.thechessdrum.net/newsbriefs/2005/NB_ThomasEL.html

Edited November 8, 2005 by Radewart

[Jazzy Julie]

i hope he doesnt wanna do it when he sees a script, it doesnt sound like the most thrilling of films. :sick:

[bart5]

i hope he doesnt wanna do it when he sees a script, it doesnt sound like the most thrilling of films. :sick:

:iagree: :3-laugh3:

[willreign]

I think that b'cos Will is a bog fan of Chess he will do it co's he love it, not 4 the thrill.

like the leggend of bagger vanse

[SEALK]

I remember hearing that Will lost in a chess game one time and was so upset about it that he called in a professional chess player to help him get better. That's pretty funny.

[Da Brakes]

Wills like that! If he loses at something , he'll go away and practice until he's better at it and then come back and whoop you at it!

[kbfprince]

It's like he's straying away from the 'action star' and trying to star in more mellow "adult" movies.