The Crew
LJMU's Group 10 consisted of four final year Film Studies students; Peter Lamb, Ryan Mackey, Luke Maher, and Louie Woodall
Peter Lamb
Camera Operator and Editor
Peter was more than happy to take on the role of Camera Operator due to a keen interest in this side of filming as well as previous experience in past works. Through the use of observational filmmaking, Peter captured the intimate and sometimes prolonged methods of chess matches through facial ticks, nods and expressions, showcasing his adaptability in a slow environment to capture the human aspect of the game. In collaboration with Ryan, Peter helped capture the emotion of a chess game and also supported in the filming of interviews. Peter also took on the role of co-Editor in order to produce the initial Pieces on a Board concept trailer.
Ryan Mackey
Camera Operator and Editor
Ryan is an avid Camera Operator in both film and photography, capturing both filmic content on set as well as promotional images ahead of the documentary's premiere. A skilled and versatile Camera Operator, Ryan was able to use his knowledge of various aspects of camera work to capture high definition shots of interviews, chess matches and various members of the club through a wide use of close up, wide angle, and long range lenses on a variety of different cameras, primarily the Canon C100. Ryan also took on the role of editor in order to create the documentary's trailers and final product.
Luke Maher
Producer and Sound Recordist
Luke took on the role of Producer in order to gain greater experience in the position. As Producer, Luke took on responsibilities such as communication with the club and its members, organising equipment and crew and leading interviews and discussions during film with the club members. As a Sound Recordist, Luke was tasked with recording interviews, wild tracks and discussions with the members. Luke was comfortable taking on this role thanks to previous experiences on past projects with the common use of boom and radio mics as well as the addition of Zoom recorder kits.
Louie Woodall
Director and Assistant Sound Recordist
Louie held the reins of the creative aspects of filming as the documentary's Director. In this role, Louie was working closely with the project's Camera Operators to capture interesting and captivating scenes, images and ideas as well as working closely with the Producer in order to ensure all creative visions were shared. Louie also took charge in questioning members of the club to delve deeper into the history of the club. As an Assistant Sound Recordist, Louie also helped in capturing audio for the documentary centring around interviews and wild tracks, utilising previous and new knowledge to capture the intimate atmosphere of the club and its location.
The Club
The Liverpool Chess Club were all incredibly welcoming to us with special thanks Jim Gallagher, Magda Hamblett, Andrew Legg, and Rob Steele
Jim Gallagher
Club President
Jim Gallagher is the president of the Liverpool Chess Club. He has been a member of the club for 12 years and the president for 4 of them. Jim is driven by the community aspect of the Liverpool Chess Club, estimating around 300-400 people participating over the years. Outside of chess, he holds an IT
degree from LJMU and currently works in the IT sector. He has been an avid chess player since his youth, particularly during his senior school days. Jim loves chess because it appeals to everyone of all ages, gender and backgrounds, especially in Liverpool because, “everyone wants to become a footballer,” but with chess, “they can become the star”.
Magda Hamblett
Club Treasurer
Magda Hamblett is the treasurer of the club. She is the first female to be part of the committee which is a huge breakthrough for the club as chess as a sport, and also within the club, is predominantly played by men. Joining the club was very intimidating as she was the only female who attended the club however the welcoming atmosphere of the members made her feel less self-conscious as she played the game she loves with like-minded people. The presence of Magda has inspired young girls to join the club and progress at chess.
Andrew Legg
Club Member
Andrew Legge describes himself as an 'honorary member' of the Liverpool Chess Club and has been for many years, however he has had periods throughout the years where he has not been as active in the club due to work and other commitments. He is a close friend of the president, Jim, who initially got Andrew involved in the club. As explained in his interview, Andrew got interested in chess when he watched the 1993 world chess championship final which saw two chess experts,Nigel Short and Gary Kasparov, battle against each other.
Rob Steele
Club Vice President
Rob Steele is the Vice President of the Liverpool Chess Club. He
and Jim work closely together in ensuring the smooth running of
the club week in, week out. Rob is tasked with setting up games,
keeping records and, occasionally, tries to squeeze in a game for
himself. He has been a member for 5 years, having played for other
clubs prior to this. Rob also teaches members within the club as
well as with a charity based in London to help younger kids on
Merseyside get into the game of chess.