Odysseus' Gambit is a 2011 documentary film, directed by Alex Lora Cercos, about a homeless Cambodian immigrant who maintains his livelihood and sanity by playing chess in the heart of Manhattan. In 2012, Odysseus' Gambit was nominated for the Best Short Filmmaking Award at the Sundance Film Festival.Synopsis
Saravuth Inn is a charismatic man living in New York’s Union Square. There, this American of Cambodian origin plays chess with people; losers pay him five dollars, enabling him to survive another day. A caring community of sorts has formed around Saravuth. Sometimes fellow players bring him food or hot drinks. Playing guitar also makes Saravuth’s life on the streets more bearable.