Emma Stone, Nathan Fielder, and A24 are reuniting for another project following the success of “The Curse,” this time going into the competitive world of chess.
The studio has secured the rights to “Checkmate,” an intriguing feature package based on a book proposal by author Ben Mezrich, known for his works adapted into “The Social Network” and “Dumb Money.”
“Checkmate” revolves around what has been labeled as the “biggest scandal in the history of chess,” focusing on the controversial 2022 match between Grandmasters Magnus Carlsen, then world champion, and Hans Niemann, amid accusations of cheating.
In a competitive bidding process involving numerous studios and streamers, A24 emerged victorious with a reported seven-figure offer.
While deals are still underway, Nathan Fielder is set to direct, with Emma Stone attached to produce alongside her husband and partner Dave McCary under their Fruit Tree banner.
This collaboration marks another milestone in the partnership between Stone, Fielder, and A24, following the success of their dark dramedy series “The Curse,” which is poised to be a strong contender during this Emmys season.
Additionally, this project adds to the strategic moves of Stone’s Fruit Tree, which recently announced an untitled film at Universal starring the acclaimed actress and directed by McCary.
Ben Mezrich is represented by CAA, while Emma Stone and Fruit Tree are represented by WME and Anonymous Content, with the latter being co-managed by Mosaic. Nathan Fielder is represented by UTA and Rise Management.
