Fahim

Set in a Paris suburb, Fahim Mohammad, a Bangladeshi immigrant, pursues a better future through chess. The film follows his ascent from local tournaments to the world junior circuit, driven by long hours at the board and the steady faith of people who believe in him. Mathilde offers practical support while Sylvain Charpentier, a patient coach played by Gérard Depardieu, teaches Fahim to spot threats, calculate lines, and manage the pressure of competition. The story centers on a family juggling work, school, and the realities of immigration as Fahim grows from a shy kid into someone who dreams of world class success without abandoning his roots. Humor and warmth punctuate moments, reminding us that talent thrives where it feels seen.

Released in 2019, Fahim was directed by Thibault Vanhulle and Pierre-François Martin-Laval. It draws on Fahim Mohammad's real life, blending drama with humor to depict an immigrant family's pursuit of chess glory in France today, amid everyday challenges.

Box office data for Fahim is not widely reported, but the film found audiences on release in France and in international markets where chess and immigrant stories resonate. It circulated in festivals and arthouse venues that emphasize human scale drama.

While not a blockbuster, Fahim adds to a lineage of personal dramas that foreground migrant resilience and mentorship. Its presence in festival circuits and screenings helped spark conversations about accessibility, education, and the power of games to unite communities beyond the screen globally. Audiences remember its warmth and quiet humanity.

Critics highlighted its straightforward storytelling, warm performances, and focus on family bonds amid hardship. The film emphasizes ambition tempered by responsibility, showing how skill can open doors while staying rooted in belonging, culture, and the everyday acts of support. It resonates with viewers who value portraits that feel truly earned.