REVIEW: Queen of Katwe Makes All The Right Moves

Strong, inspiring, and heartfelt are the words best used to describe Mira Nair’s new film, Queen of Katwe. The sports drama, based on the true story of Phiona Mutesi, does a fantastic job of telling the typical “underdog” story. Directed by Nair, her ability of laying out the story, its characters, and the overall message of the film: make your move, creates an inspiring film.

Queen of Katwe follows Phiona, a young girl living in the slums of Uganda (Katwe) who dreams of becoming a Woman Candidate Master. With the help of her chess coach, Robert (David Oyelowo), Phiona is able to see she can be more than just someone selling maze on the streets. She learns she can have an education and an exciting future and the power to do so lies with her.

Madina Nalwanga stars as child chess prodigy, Phiona. This was Madina’s first role and what a perfect role to start with. Madina makes Phiona come alive, and at points it feels as if you are watching a documentary on Phiona’s life rather than a fictional film. Her chemistry with her chess mates and her adult counterparts makes Madina seem a seasoned pro rather than the newcomer she is.

The two big shining stars of this film were David Oyelowo and Lupita Nyong’o. David played Phiona’s chess coach, Robert, with ease and masterful skill. No matter what the scene asked he delivered. The connection he had with each and every one of the younger actors was extremely present throughout and added more credibility to the film.

Lupita left us in awe as Phiona’s strong-willed mother, Nakku. This role was a departure from previous roles and to see the range of emotions she was able to capture, from fiercely protective to deeply vulnerable, was truly beautiful . After this performance another Oscar nomination for the actress would be well deserved.

This film takes its audience into a world not usually seen in a Disney film. This is a world where struggling to survive is the norm and leaving for a better place is not that simple. Queen of Katwe proves that no matter where you are from, you can excel. You just have to make your move.

For those looking for something to take the whole family to this film is it. It’s motivating, inspiring, and quite beautiful. For those who have no interest in seeing it in theaters, we still think it worth seeing, so definitely rent it when it comes out on DVD.

Grade: A-