When Phiona Mutesi walked into a chess program in the the slums of Kampala, Uganda, she was only looking for something to eat: young people who chose to learn how to play got a free meal. Instead, she found a gift that would change her life. Her talent for chess was obvious to her teachers, and she improved by leaps and bounds. The young chess prodigy was her country’s junior champion at eleven and the national champion at fifteen.
Phiona set her sights on becoming a grand master — but in one of the world's most unstable countries, where women are expected to become mothers, not chess players, it will take tremendous determination to achieve her dream. Based on Phiona's inspiring true story, this vibrant film starring Lupita Nyong'o and David Oyelowo is a celebration of the human spirit.
Media Type | Movie |
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Recommended Age | 10 and up |
Actors | Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong'o, Martin Kabanza, Taryn Kyaze |
Director | Mira Nair |
Running Time | 124 minutes |
Studio | Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment |
Release Date | Jan 31, 2017 |
Language | English |