Queen of Katwe is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda who becomes an international chess champion.
It’s open in some Theaters NOW and the rest on September 30th!
About Queen of Katwe:
“Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.
Why I LOVED Queen of Katwe:
When I learned that “Queen of Katwe” was about a young girl playing chess, I was worried that I wouldn’t like the movie. I don’t know how to play chess and really have no interest in learning. BUT, that didn’t matter at all. I think this movie is my favorite movie of the year. I had thought I was going to have a 2 hour rest from our Disney trip, but “Queen of Katwe” had me hooked from the first scene! I loved that it is based on a true story- a story unlike any you have heard before. Sure, it may have been a story where the underdog wins, but there is so much more to the story.
Madina Nalwanga starring as Phiona Mutesi, was amazing and inspiring. She showed us that even an illiterate, poverty-stricken, 11-year old can learn anything and surprise those who doubt her. Her quiet spirit and emotionless face keep you riveted to the screen. Her smile lights up the whole screen! Her fighting spirit she inherited from her mother, Lupita Nyong’o starring as Harriet. Harriet’s strength and love for her family is the basis of Phiona’s extraordinary potential.
But winning doesn’t make the world all sunshine and roses. Winning a chess match is not a magical solution to the world’s injustices- and the film does NOT make you feel that way. “Queen of Katwe” shows us that hard work and determination can take you around the world. It is just one small thing that created Phiona’s belief in herself. She was more than just a poor African girl. She learned she could be ANYTHING she wanted to be.
David Oyelowo who plays Robert, was a quiet and positive force in Phiona’s struggle for self-confidence. I love his calm and often funny personality. He was perfect for this role!
“Queen of Katwe” is a real life story of someone who rose from humble surroundings, but worked hard to develop their talent and achieved their goal. It will keep you hooked from beginning to end. You may even need tissues- it did make me tear up. It’s a must-see for kids, teens, adults and seniors. There is a message that speaks to us all.
My favorite part of the movie: The end credits! The director stirringly shows the real-life characters beside the actors who played them. You can see them all in my post HERE. Be sure to stay until the very end so you don’t miss any of them!
Here are some of my favorite quotes from the movie:
Robert Katende: [to Phiona] “Sometimes the place you are used to is not the place you belong. You belong where you believe you belong. Where is that for you?”
Robert Katende: [to Harriet] “Your children are blessed because they have a mother who never gave up on them.”
Phiona: “Coach, you told us to make a plan but I fear things will never change.”
Robert Katende: “What matters is when you reset the pieces and play a game.”
More about Queen of Katwe:
“Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl from the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. Directed by Mira Nair from a screenplay by William Wheeler, “Queen of Katwe” is produced by Lydia Dean Pilcher, p.g.a. and John Carls, p.g.a. with Will Weiske and Troy Buder serving as executive producers. The film stars Golden Globe® nominee David Oyelowo, Oscar® winner and Tony Award® nominee Lupita Nyong’o and newcomer Madina Nalwanga.
For 10-year-old Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga) and her family, life in the impoverished slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle. Her mother, Harriet (Nyong’o), is fiercely determined to take care of her family and works tirelessly selling vegetables in the market to make sure her children are fed and have a roof over their heads. When Phiona meets Robert Katende (Oyelowo), a soccer player turned missionary who teaches local children chess, she is captivated. Chess requires a good deal of concentration, strategic thinking and risk taking, all skills which are applicable in everyday life, and Katende hopes to empower youth with the game. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and wit the game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from her mother, Katende begins to mentor her, but Harriet is reluctant to provide any encouragement, not wanting to see her daughter disappointed. As Phiona begins to succeed in local chess competitions, Katende teaches her to read and write in order to pursue schooling. She quickly advances through the ranks in tournaments, but breaks away from her family to focus on her own life. Her mother eventually realizes that Phiona has a chance to excel and teams up with Katende to help her fulfill her extraordinary potential, escape a life of poverty and save her family.
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