Review: The Queen’s Gambit

Check and Mate: The Queen’s Gambit is a winning move.

The Queen’s Gambit is one of Netflix’s recent original productions and is by far one of the best original productions the streaming service has released in some time. It stars Anya Taylor-Joy (whom also stars in Split, Glass, and the Witch) as Elizabeth Harmon, a child chess prodigy. We also see Thomas Brodie-Sangster (Doctor Who, Game of Thrones, and Love Actually) co-star alongside Harry Melling (aka Dudley Dursley from Harry Potter). Moses Ingram, someone relatively new to the screen, impresses as Elizabeth’s long-term friend, Jolene.

The series showcases Elizabeth’s journey from orphan to celebrity of the chess world. The story is set in the 50s-60s and so the challenge Elizabeth faces isn’t just one of mastering one of the most complex games invented, but also overcoming a gender stereotype. Back then, chess was very much dominated by men. Elizabeth dominates the chess board, but also provides us with a (and apologies for using an overused phrase) strong female character. Although she also wrestles with other personal challenges that a lot of people will resonate with. I have seen other reviews where the reviewer is not persuaded by Elizabeth’s character and that she comes across as unlikeable. While I can understand why this may be, I believe that is part of her charm and while she may not be likeable all the time, it is hard to not like the character by the end.

One of the most standout points of the series is its score and use of music from the 60s. I’d be willing to say its original score is one of the best I’ve heard in a tv series in quite some time. The score masterfully sets the tone of each chess match, fluidly changing depending on what’s happening with every move.

The limited series only has 7 episodes, which you may find disappointing because the show is so good. Upon reflection, 7 episodes is the perfect length for this show. None of the episodes feel like filler and each scene serves a purpose to the overall story. More than 7 episodes may have ran the risk of affecting the pacing of the show, which is done really well.

The overall tone of the series is one of triumph and it constantly makes you root for Elizabeth every time she moves a piece across the board. The show makes you feel a variety of emotions throughout: wholesome, suspense, shock, and some that will definitely have you holding back the tears. One thing is for sure, I never thought I’d find a show about chess as exhilarating and exciting as this one did.

Verdict: This is a heart-warming underdog story about a young orphan girl who overcomes various challenges to win everything she’s wanted since she first laid eyes on the chess board. By the end of the series, you’ll feel humbled, satisfied, and proud at what she achieves.

Review by Ben McGuckin

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