Review: The Queen’s Gambit - unexpected moves in an unlikely turn of events
Anya Taylor-Joy stars in this seven- part glamorous Netflix series as an orphan who proves difficult beginnings can lead to thrilling journeys, resulting in it being the streamer’s most-watched scripted limited series of all time.
At a first glance, The Queen’s Gambit, from creator Scott Frank and Allan Scott, looks to be nothing more than a mini-series simply about chess — but the adaptation of the novel by Walter Tevis promises so much more.
The Cold War period piece gives an in-depth insight into the intense game whilst celebrating the music, fashion and culture of the time.
The series is a classic binge-worthy watch, allowing escapism into Beth Harmon’s world.
Early on in the series Beth (played in the first episode by Isla Johnston) arrives at Methuen Home orphanage and befriends Jolene (Moses Ingraham).
The first episode allows those watching to become invested immediately: a young girl orphaned by a tragic car crash, only to be saved by a game of chess in the basement with the janitor Mr Shaibel (Bill Camp).
The early episodes reveal the speed bumps of growing up in an orphanage and how exposure to tranquilisers results in a dependence for Beth to practice chess further at night by envisioning the chess board on the ceiling. The sport for the young girl is a hobby by day and an obsession by night.
Adoption by a local couple offers hope for a dreamt-of life for Beth, but when the husband abandons his alcoholic wife the series enables watchers to see how women can manage without a man — a common theme throughout.
The pair travel together to take on the world of chess whilst simultaneously leading an alcohol and drug-fuelled life, doomed to last only a matter of time.
Each game of chess for Beth is important and vital in her personal journey as well as her sporting one. Rising to fame step-by-step she discovers the adult world of sex, partying and work balance whilst fighting her own demons.
This emotional journey is inclusive, addictive and beautiful in the way that it is presented to its adoring audience.
