Cert 15
125 mins
BBFC advice: Contains strong language, violence, drug use
Among the deluge of junk at the cinema over the past month or so, comes a jewel which may just find itself in this year's everyfilm top 20 or even 10.
The Dark Horse left me with a lump in my throat and wishing there had been more people at my screening at Sheffield Showroom to enjoy it. Through the darkness I counted just five.
And the performance of Cliff Curtis is comparable with every one of this year's Oscar contenders - including Eddie Redmayne.
Curtis plays Genesis Potini, a New Zealander of Maori descent, who had been institutionalised because of mental illness.
His health issues mean that he needs heavy medication to prevent him going into downward spirals of depression, violence, inappropriate behaviour or all three.
However, when his symptoms are under control, he is a wonderfully generous-spirited man who also happens to be a chess genius.
The Dark Horse is the story of Genesis' release from hospital and the formation of the Eastern Knights chess club for underprivileged children in a badly run-down area.
Genesis becomes a coach for the children but the path of teaching them and convincing their parents that he is a suitable mentor is not easy.
Meanwhile, he has a fractious relationship with his brother (Barry Te-Hira) who is bringing up his son (James Rolleston) on the wrong side of the tracks.
James Napier Robertson has done a brilliant job of writing and directing this true story of euphoric highs and crashing lows.
While there are moments which are very uplifting, Robertson makes clear that dealing with mental illness is not only hugely challenging for sufferers but also for everyone around them.
He makes no judgments on those who react badly to Genesis - in fact, he creates an empathy on both sides.
In doing so, he has created a truly wonderful movie.
Director James Napier Robertson: "I was drawn to the complexities of Genesis, the polarities and societal misconceptions around him, an outcast who could inspire or intimidate, his mental illness making him a pariah for some, his intelligence, gift with chess and eccentric charisma making him a teacher to others."
Reasons to watch: An uplifting true story
Reasons to avoid: Dialogue isn't always easy to understand
Laughs: two
Jumps: none
Vomit: none
Nudity: none
Overall rating: 9.5/10