KING OF THE NIGHT

Born in Lebanon to Palestinian refugees, Imad Khachan came to New York to study English Literature, but became the steward of Chess Forum, now the last surviving chess shop in the city. As public gathering places in NYC become increasingly endangered, the Forum represents a crucial community space – a respite from the elements, commercial concerns and isolation. Through interviews with Imad and regulars – many of whom take refuge in the shop for over 35 hours a week – King of the Night tells the story of a man whose personal sacrifice has touched the lives of some of NYC’s most vulnerable.