I have now seen Queen of Katwe three times, and there are few movies that I enjoy watching multiple times. There are several I will see, and enjoy, but truly enjoy watching, that doesn’t always happen? With Queen of Katwe, this is not the case. I not only loved it enough to watch it three times, but I will be seeing it again this weekend with my family for a fourth.
Queen Of Katwe
Queen of Katwe is a beautiful true story of Phiona Mutesi, a young girl growing up in one of the most poverty-stricken areas of Kampala, Uganda. The story shows the daily struggles of selling corn on the streets of Katwe instead of going to school, and living with adversity, that most of us in the United States could never fathom.
The story follows Phiona and her coach/mentor, Robert Katende (David Oyelowo). He offers a promise to children of the area through the game of chess as a way to engage and sharpen their minds. Chess promotes abstract thinking, and creative thinking skills that he proves will prepare them for an excellent education that will change their lives.
Through Phiona’s eyes, the movie shows not only how to overcome adversity, but to live in conditions after getting a taste of what the world without struggle is like. She lives in a reality where being a kid ends once your next sibling is born. To eat is a daily struggle, and how in spite of it all, having a positive attitude that is celebrated in sharing her story.
Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita is one of my favorite actresses. As I will share in an upcoming interview post (9/27), you will see how portraying global women is important to her, and how working on this film will not only affect the lives that see it but also, you will see how there are a few kids that lives are now changed forever. She’s fierce as a mother and as a woman in this role.
David Oyelowo
David is full of joy, and in this film, he captures the heart and soul of Robert Katende and his love for the kids and his interest in their future.
Madina Nalwanga
A name you will not soon forget. She is a first-time actress and, well working with one of the best in Hollywood, it’s clear she has caught the bug. Rightfully so, she is perfect in her role as Phiona.
There are moments of heartbreak, triumphs, laughter and tears. It’s about dreaming big, and it’s a film I am proud to be promoting. It’s safe for the whole family. Full of lines and story telling of a story that will open conversation.
Queen of Katwe is now open in U.S. theaters in limited release today expanding nationwide September 30, 2016.
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*I have been invited by Disney to experience the mentioned press junket to share my experience. All opinions are my own.
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