Film review: Queen of Katwe (4 out of 5)
But Queen of Katwe is a remarkable true story told in a very un-Hollywood way.
Set in Uganda only a handful of years ago, we are introduced to Phiona Mutesi, a young girl who, with her family, is struggling to live day to day selling maize in the streets of Katwe.
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Hide AdTheir home is in the more rundown area where not having the money for rent means you are quickly evicted.
One day Phiona is introduced to a chess club, run by Robert Katende, a man who cares about the ghetto children.
And to everyone’s surprise she is a prodigy, able to beat all-comers.
It’s then a question of trying to get Phiona and her fellow players to play chess against schools and in major tournaments, despite the prejudice against their poor background.
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Hide AdMadina Nalwanga is superb as Phiona and English actor David Oyelowo brings his excellence to the role of Robert.
But the whole ensemble back them up to create a heart-warming story.
Director Mira Nair pulls all the elements together to create a movie that presents a great story without being too blunt and obvious.
Life is tough for many in the ghetto, but we realise this through watching people at work and there’s a great scene when the children at a tournament get a glimpse of how the other half live.
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Hide AdStick around at the end to see the actors with the actual people they play.
Overall, a film that has plenty of humour that will fill you with joy.
Film details: Queen of Katwe (PG) 124mins
Director: Mira Nair
Starring: Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong’o
Screening courtesy of Horsham Capitol