Queen of Katwe Review

I'm not sure if I'm right but it doesn't seem like Queen of Katwe has gotten much publicity after its release in theatres. I saw the trailer every now and then before other movies but it really wasn't on my radar. It happened to be, that yesterday I was looking to go to the movies but had nothing particular I wanted to see. I scrolled through my fandango app and a local theatre playing this reminded that it was out in cinemas. While I didn't have a burning desire to watch it, the trailer grabbed my interest enough and its strong reviews coupled with the Disney label gave me enough faith to buy my tickets. I case you aren't to familiar with the premise, its a true story following a teenage girl named Phiona Mutesi who grows up in Uganda's slums. It retells thediscovery and passion for her love of chess. She sees it as a way to dig herself out of the extreme poverty she was born into. The acting from all corners of this film is solid. Nobody gives a weak performance and David Oyelowo in particular gives an outstanding effort as Phiona's coach. All the other kids in Phiona's chess "club" serve their rolls well and at times add an enjoyable layer of humor and levity to the film. This movie isn't breaking any barriers but it's the prime example of feel good entertainment. You sympathize for the unimaginable hardships these kids have had to endure from such a young age. Chess is there only form of solace from all this. Their strength and resilience is truly inspiring and the movie does a great job of making you want to invest full interest in their story. The make it or break element of this film is whether its ability to grab you emotionally. Luckily, it succeeds with flying colors in this category, making chess matches more exciting and tense than I ever thought possible. My only minor criticism with it is its portrayal of Phiona's opponents who largely come from either private schools or more developed areas and countries. These more "privileged" players are always portrayed as complete jerks. I understand that it helps you root for Phiona but it rubbed me a little the wrong way that they have to be pricks just because they had an easier time growing up. Besides that, like I said the film isn't going to blow your mind but it is really enjoyable. If you can go out and support this one do it! If not I strongly encourage you to rent it when reaching VOD. Solid A.