Chess Mates

In Herat, Afghanistan, young Daria balances her passion for science with the weight of strict social norms and a deeply devout life. A gifted mathematician and chess prodigy, she dreams of a future beyond the boundaries set for her. But as violence closes in on her school and the Taliban rise once more, Daria's resilience and ambition face their greatest challenge.

Half a world away in Moscow, Katya, a Ukrainian girl, battles her own demons. Attending an elite school that mocks her heritage and disregards her intellect, she finds refuge in a hidden online identity as an unstoppable gamer. Yet as real-life bullying intensifies, Katya must confront her tormentors-not just in the virtual world, but in the harsh realities of everyday life.

Two girls. Two worlds. United by their love of chess and their relentless pursuit of freedom. But can they outthink and outlast the forces that seek to crush their spirits?