Xeque-Mate

A man becomes obsessed with a woman he sees in a painting, leading him down a path of delusion and isolation. He delves into the artist's life and the subject's history, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. The film explores themes of artistic obsession, unrequited love, and the subjective nature of perception.

Xeque-Mate is a lesser-known work by the prolific Manoel de Oliveira, often seen as an early exploration of his later thematic concerns with art, reality, and obsession. While not as widely discussed as some of his other films, it is recognized for its contemplative and atmospheric approach.

• A deeply introspective and visually striking film.

• Explores the consuming nature of artistic fixation.

• Offers a contemplative look at perception and reality.

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Manoel de Oliveira directed 'Xeque-Mate' when he was 68 years old, and it was one of his earlier narrative features before his extensive later career that saw him directing well into his 100s.