Review of Queen of Katwe (2016) by Steviegjd — 19 Oct 2016

This is a well made and inspiring movie about people overcoming overwhelming odds to achieve something special. It is a movie I took my mother to. It is neither high art nor densely intellectual. It is family friendly entertainment.

Anyone who hates this movie because it does not comport with their beliefs about the "real story" is either a racist or simply misses the point: Phiona overcomes great odds to achieve what she does in the film.

So do the other kids. The coach and his wife are wonderful people who give of themselves to help others rise above their station. It might not be 100% accurate. But this is not a documentary, this is a drama.

The main actors are great. David Oyelowo does another excellent job as the coach. Lupita Nyong'o is a terrific actress who is very good again. The young actors playing the children, including newcomer Madina Nalwanga as Phiona, are all effective.

This is not a movie about chess, it is a movie about overcoming obstacles. It is a little corny at times. But it has a great heart. Racist bigots will not like it for obvious reasons. While it is certainly not a dynamic work of art, it is pleasant entertainment that is well presented about a subject that it important (and that is working hard to achieve, not simply chess).