If you are going to the movies this week, you must see Queen of Katwe. It’s inspiring to watch 10-year-old Phiona overcome so many obstacles and extreme poverty to become such an amazing chess player in Uganda.
“Living in the slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle for 10-year-old Phiona (Madina Nalwanga) and her family. Her world changes one day when she meets Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches children how to play chess. Phiona becomes fascinated with the game and soon becomes a top player under Katende’s guidance. Her success in local competitions and tournaments opens the door to a bright future and a golden chance to escape from a life of poverty.”
This movie is so beautifully done and full of inspiration and hope. But the reminder that there are still cultures that must live in the slums was hard to watch sometimes. Since I had my 12 yo daughter with me at the movie screening, I decided to talk to her about poverty and about how people do really live this way. We talked about how amazing Phiona is to overcome all the obstacles and challenges and how brave her mom was for letting her go.
The movie isn’t “action-packed” but there is enough to keep mid-elementary school children interested in watching. Of course any kids that are chess players will love the movie!!!
Queen of Katwe opens nationwide today (9/30).
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Rated PG, Run Time 124 minutes, #QueenofKatwe
Disclaimer: I attended a media screening of this movie.
