| Description |
The story of an inspired inner-city teacher and eight bright and spirited black sixth graders who together challenged some skeptical observers by organizing a chess team, and with three years of hard work and perseverance went on to win a national championship. Called the "Masters of Disaster," a label they adopted during their early struggles, the team is shown at practice, in school, in chess competitions, with families and friends, on a trip to Japan, and during a visit with the President of the United States, as the documentary pieces together the progress from their frustrating beginnings until their last national competition as a group. Teacher Bob Cotter's motivational techniques and the team members' unique contributions to the group's successes stand as inspiration to young people and adults everywhere. Blue Ribbon, American Film & Video Festival, 1986; Best of Category, Birmingham International Film Festival, 1986; CINE Golden Eagle, 1986; Finalist, NAACP Image Awards, 1986; 1986 Teacher Education Award, Oakland National Educational Film Festival.
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