Nair concentrates on presenting a dignified and intelligent film which portrays the grim reality of living in poverty, but always retains a positive tone whereby anything is possible regardless of where you live. Yes, Queen of Katwe is a Disney flick, so it's a traditional, uplifting story that hits the narrative beats you expect, but in Nair's telling it's devoid of sentimentality - which is what makes it refreshing. The new opportunities confuse Phiona and put pressure on her family life and it's at this point Nair could have played the sympathy card a temptation she wisely avoids.
It's a successful trip for Phiona, but the clash of culture and class makes for an unsettling experience. Impressed by his team's passion for the game and Phiona's natural ability, Robert talks his way into a tournament at one of Uganda's poshest schools. At first Phiona joins the club for the free cup of porridge, but she soon becomes fascinated with the board game. When they first meet, Phiona spends her days selling maize on the streets with her siblings to support her struggling solo mother Nakku Harriet (Lupita Nyong'o).
It's here he meets 9 year-old Phiona (Madina Nalwanga) who is unable to read or write, but who, under Robert's tutelage, goes on to become a Ugandan chess champion. The latest film from award-winning veteran Indian filmmaker Mira Nair ( Monsoon Wedding) is a feelgood underdog story everyone in the family can enjoy - especially if you enjoy a game of chess.īased on a true story, this live action Disney film takes us into Katwe, one of Uganda's poorest slums, where unemployed engineering graduate Robert Katende (David Oyelowo) spends his days running sports programmes for the local kids, including a chess club.
0 kommentar(er)
