Queen of Katwe
dir. Mira Nair · 2016
Plot
Living in Katwe, a slum in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle for 10-year-old Phiona, her mother Nakku Harriet, and her younger family members. She and her younger brother help their mother sell maize in the market. She also helps care for her baby brother. Her world changes the day she meets Robert Katende at a missionary program. Katende coaches soccer and teaches children to play chess at a local center. Curious, Phiona visits the center, learns the game, and becomes fascinated with it. She becomes a top player in the group under Katende's guidance.
Why watch
"Queen of Katwe" is a heartwarming tale of resilience and ambition, showcasing the transformative power of chess in the life of a young girl from the slums of Uganda. With vibrant visuals and an uplifting narrative, it inspires viewers to dream big against all odds.
Talking points
- the impact of mentorship on youth
- the intersection of poverty and ambition
- cultural representations in cinema
- the role of sports in personal development