Since he was 5 yrs old, Jose's abuelita taught him to play chess like his grandfather who was a champion in Mexico. Now as part of the Brownsville school team, Jose has the chance to use his skills and for once in his life, finds himself in the spotlight, as he tries to help his team make it to the Texas state finals. As their coach, Mr. Alvarado, teaches his students the meaning of perseverance and team effort in the face of adversity, Jose discovers his own strengths and uses them to bring his broken family together.
Acting
Rico Rodriguez carries soul beyond sitcom roots.
Direction
Carmen Marrón makes chess matches feel like gladiator fights.
Director
Carmen Marrón
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Rico Rodriguez learned chess specifically for this role and maintained a 1200 rating during filming.
Brownsville's real chess program inspired this; the school still uses 'abuelita lessons' as team tradition. The diner where Jose's mom works? It's where the actual students celebrated their first regional win.
US
