The Queen’s Gambit

The Queen’s Gambit: A Phenomenal Journey of a Chess Prodigy

I’m sure that by now, you’ve all heard of the Netflix original series, The Queen’s Gambit, which took the world by storm when it was released in October 2020. The seven-part miniseries has been praised for its captivating storyline and brilliant performances, with viewers all around the globe raving about it.

But what exactly is The Queen’s Gambit all about? In simple terms, it is a coming-of-age story of Beth Harmon (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), an orphaned chess prodigy who struggles with drug and alcohol addiction while trying to become the world’s greatest chess player.

The series is based on the 1983 novel of the same name by Walter Tevis, who was also the author of The Hustler and The Color of Money. Tevis himself was a master-level chess player, and he used his own experiences to create the complex and intriguing world of The Queen’s Gambit.

The show is set in the Cold War era, where chess was seen as a battle of intellect between the Soviet Union and the United States. This provides the perfect backdrop for Beth’s journey as she navigates through a male-dominated world of chess, breaking down barriers and proving that gender has no role in determining one’s abilities in the game.

One of the most striking aspects of the series is its visual appeal. The production design, costumes, and cinematography all work together to create a stunning world, transporting viewers to the 1950s and 1960s. The use of vibrant colours and unique camera angles adds to the overall aesthetic of the show, making it a visual treat.

But what truly makes The Queen’s Gambit stand out is the incredible talent of the cast, led by the brilliant Anya Taylor-Joy. Her portrayal of Beth is nuanced and captivating, bringing depth to her character and making viewers root for her throughout her journey. The supporting cast, including Harry Melling, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, and Marielle Heller, also deliver exceptional performances.

The title of the series refers to a chess opening where a player sacrifices a pawn to gain control of the center of the board. This strategic move parallels Beth’s own sacrifices and struggles as she tries to gain control of her life and her career.

The Queen’s Gambit is not just a show about chess. It delves into themes of addiction, gender roles, and the idea of genius, raising thought-provoking questions along the way. It is a show that will leave you on the edge of your seat, invested in the story and characters, and wanting more by the end.

In conclusion, The Queen’s Gambit is a must-watch for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning series. With its captivating storyline, exceptional performances, and stunning aesthetics, it is no wonder that it has become one of Netflix’s most popular original series. So grab your board and pieces and get ready to be mesmerized by the world of chess in The Queen’s Gambit.