The upcoming feature was advertised in the 9 March 1917 Variety as one of six in a series of starring vehicles for actress Jackie Saunders, to be produced by her husband, E. D. Horkheimer. An item in the 28 April 1917 Reel Life noted that Saunders was cast in a dual role, portraying both her signature “tomboy” character and a “very dignified young lady.” The 2 June 1917 Moving Picture World added that the original story was written specifically for the actress by Captain Leslie T. Peacocke. Also joining the cast was Ethel Ritchie, as stated in the 1918 Motion Picture News Studio Directory. The other films in the series were Sunny Jane, The Wildcat, A Bit of Kindling, Betty Be Good, and Bab the Fixer (see entries).
       The Checkmate was released on 21 May 1917 and opened that same week at the Pastime Theatre in Chicago, IL. Although the 21 July 1917 Exhibitors Herald listed the picture as a Selig release, the majority of sources credit Mutual Film Corp. as distributor. A review in the 31 May 1917 Wid’s referred to the production company as “Balboa,” founded in Long Beach, CA, by Horkheimer and his brother, suggesting that this may have been the filming location. It is uncertain as to whether they were using the Balboa trademark at that time.
       Three unrelated films, all titled Checkmate, were released in 1911, 1912, and 1973 (see entries).
       According to the Library of Congress American Silent Feature Film Survival Database, a portion of this film is extant.