Plot: What’s it about?
I admit to growing a bit tired of these “Inspirational” types of films. I realize they’re not all and the same, but sometimes the basic storylines and the arcs become all too familiar that they are in fact mostly interchangeable at times. Does Queen of Katwe break that spell and offer something new? You’ll just have to read on and see. This is not a traditional sports film, but instead the focus is on the game of chess. A game I do not play nor do I want to. It requires patience and a more analytic style brain than I have inside my head, but I digress. What the film may lack in originality, it makes up for with strong performances and a lot of heart. It does a good job of showing how one can triumph despite certain setbacks involving your upbringing. It’s nice to see a character really follow their passion in life as well.
The story is that of a young girl who sells corn on the streets of Uganda, but is eventually introduced to the game of chess. She is supported enough by her family and her community that she eventually follows her dream of becoming an international chess player. It’s a feel-good movie to be sure, but one that Disney is widely known for. I’d say too that the results, while somewhat familiar, are at least satisfying in that regard. Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga) is a ten year old girl who lives in a poverty stricken village with her mother Nakku (Lupita Nyong’o) who struggles to support her family. Young Phiona is introduced to a man one day who not only coaches soccer, but also teaches the game of chess to the youth. The man is named Robert Katende (David Oyelowo) and we see that Phiona seems to be a natural at chess. We then follow her and fellow chess players as they get better and compete. As mentioned, the story here is familiar and predictable, but sometimes that’s ok. I think it works here and it’s been a while since I’ve seen a film about chess. It’s not going to pursued me to learn to play, but it shouldn’t. I went with it during its length and it entertained me enough across its two hours.
Video: How’s it look?
The transfer here is quite nice, but should we really expect anything less from a recent Disney film? No, we shouldn’t. There are various strong details on display here and the colors and accuracy are evident throughout. The print is pristine with no flaws detected. There’s really nothing I can find to complain about here. Fans will be pleased. The image is AVC encoded with a 2.39:1 ratio.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The DTS HD track is a bit limited, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The film doesn’t lend itself to needing a robust track as it’s quieter and more character driven. Still, vocals are fine and crisp and it gets the job done as it needs to. There’s a smoothness and clarity to the track as well. So, knowing what to expect going in will leave you with expected results. The track serves the film as well as it should.
Supplements: What are the extras?
- Queen of Katwe: Their Story – Discover the stories behind the people who came together to bring the film to life, and how they reflect the vibrant community, culture and spirit it celebrates.
- A Fork, A Spoon & A Knight – Director Mira Nair’s short film about Robert Katende, a boy who grows up to transform a Ugandan city into a globally renowned chess sanctuary.
- In The Studio With Alicia Keys – Go behind-the-scenes with Alicia Keys for an inspiring look at the song’s recording.
- Alicia Keys “Back To Life” Lyric Video – Sing along with on-screen lyrics.
- Young Cardamom & HAB “#1 Spice” Music Video – The Ugandan hip-hop duo bring the flavor in a music video directed by Mira Nair.
- Audio Commentary – With Director Mira Nair.
- Deleted Scenes – With Introductions by Director Mira Nair.
- Graduation – Robert is alone at his graduation.
- Job Application – Robert checks in on the status of his job application.
- Dancing and Rent – Phiona joins in dancing with local girls before the landlady pulls her away.
- Entering the Hospital – Harriet tries to look presentable as they rush Brian to the hospital.
- Escape from the Hospital – The family sneaks out of the hospital.
- They Can’t Go to Budo – Robert second-guesses taking the kids to the competition at King’s College Budo.
- Flood (Extended Scene) – A nearly 7-minute scene before, during and after the house is flooded.
- Phiona’s Chess Club – Phiona comes full circle as she teaches a little boy the same lessons Robert taught her in chess club.
The Bottom Line
While not original and a bit predictable, Queen of Katwe still entertains and has its heart in the right place. It’s the sort of film that Disney does well. If you’re in the mood for this type of film then it comes recommended.
