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One can assume that this is the companion volume to Davies’ previous DVD on the Pirc, which I reviewed in June 2007. I found the contents to be very informative and the ideas well-presented. Davies appears very confident in front of the camera. He doesn’t hesitate or lose his train of thought and this in turn bolsters the viewer’s faith that Davies believes in the ideas he is presenting.
The material spans five hours and is divided as follows:
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Davies explains things in a way that makes it easy to understand. He discusses the aims for both sides and he gives you the impression that playing Black is almost easy. Not surprisingly, I found the coverage in some lines to be less than forthcoming in regards to the mischief that White can make, and as to the exact evaluations of certain positions, but only those who are very familiar with the English Opening as white or whose rating puts them beyond the target audience of this DVD will notice.
As with its sister volume, I really enjoyed this DVD. I am certain that a great variety of players will be able to benefit from the material and I am happy to recommend it. Now I will have to inspect the material even more closely, so as to still be able to win as white in the English Opening or with 1 d4.
My assessment of this DVD: Full five out of five stars
Original review at www.chesscafe.com
