Is Checkmate Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Checkmate is likely a skip if you enjoy Crime movies.
It features a runtime of 67 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to mature audiences.
Checkmate Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1935, Checkmate emerges as a significant entry in the Crime domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A fence for a gang of jewel thieves comes under suspicion from the police. Unlike standard genre fare, Checkmate attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Crime is often anchored by its ensemble, and Checkmate features a noteworthy lineup led by Felix Aylmer . Supported by the likes of Evelyn Foster and Maurice Evans , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Checkmate (1935) is negative. With an audience rating of 4.8/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Checkmate Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Checkmate is a Crime film that delves into the criminal underworld with gritty realism and moral complexity. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Checkmate Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Checkmate attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to crime resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the crime themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Checkmate reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Checkmate Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Checkmate incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a crime film, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement.
Historical Context
The film takes creative liberties to enhance dramatic impact. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
Creative interpretation shapes the final narrative, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Checkmate adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Checkmate?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Crime films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
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Full Cast & Crew of Checkmate
- Felix Aylmer – Henry Nicholls
- Evelyn Foster – Mary Nicholls
- Maurice Evans – Phillip Allen
- Sally Gray – Jean Nicholls
- Donald Wolfit – Jack Barton
Top Highlights
Felix AylmerHenry Nicholls
Evelyn FosterMary Nicholls
Maurice EvansPhillip Allen
Sally GrayJean Nicholls
Donald WolfitJack Barton
Wilfrid CaithnessInspector Smith
Percy WalshMr. Curtail
Ernest JayHuntly
Where to Watch Checkmate Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoParents Guide & Age Rating
Checkmate has not been officially rated yet. Based on its genres (Crime), it contains mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, Checkmate stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1935 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Checkmate movie hit or flop?
Checkmate is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is Checkmate worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, Checkmate may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Checkmate online?
Checkmate may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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How Checkmate Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Checkmate
Much better than the average crime caper, this one, and it is odd - and refreshing - to see Donald Wolfit out of his more theatrical guise. An undercover policeman takes up lodgings with a family suspected of involvement in series of jewellery heists. The father "Henry" (Felix Aylmer) is immediately suspicious as he ingratiates himself with one of his daughters and we play a cat-and-mouse game as it appears almost everyone is implicated. It's short and sweet with good performances holding it together.
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This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
