QUEEN OF KATWE
Directed by: Mira Nair
Directed by: Mira Nair
For
10-year-old Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga) and her family, life in the
impoverished slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle.
Her mother, Harriet (Nyong’o), is fiercely determined to take care of
her family and works tirelessly selling vegetables in the market to make
sure her children are fed and have a roof over their heads. When Phiona
meets Robert Katende (Oyelowo), a soccer player turned missionary who
teaches local children chess, she is captivated. Chess requires a good
deal of concentration, strategic thinking and risk taking, all skills
which are applicable in everyday life, and Katende hopes to empower
youth with the game. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and wit the
game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s
natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from
her mother, Katende begins to mentor her, but Harriet is reluctant to
provide any encouragement, not wanting to see her daughter disappointed.
As Phiona begins to succeed in local chess competitions, Katende
teaches her to read and write in order to pursue schooling. She quickly
advances through the ranks in tournaments, but breaks away from her
family to focus on her own life. Her mother eventually realizes that
Phiona has a chance to excel and teams up with Katende to help her
fulfill her extraordinary potential, escape a life of poverty and save
her family.
IN CINEMAS SEPTEMBER 23!
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