Queen of Katwe's reviews
Media reviews
New York Times
"In Ms. Nair?s hands, Phiona?s story has a richness and unpredictability that separates it from other, superficially similar movies. It also has the buoyant, cleareyed feel for the particulars of culture and place that is among this director?s great gifts".
The Guardian
"For what is, in essence, a by-numbers Disney sports flick, there?s endless freshness and vivacity to Mira Nair?s picture ? her best in years".
Screen Crush
"It shirks the typical Disney model of an untouchable, picturesque fantasy by telling a more grounded, human story coursing with love and earnestness".
Variety
"The film?s strongest assets are undoubtedly its actors".
The Hollywood Reporter
"Even with director Mira Nair?s typically vivid sense of place and the charismatic central performances by David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong?o and a striking newcomer, the film hits every note of plucky positivity so squarely on the head that it leaves little room for audience involvement".
The Wrap
"Films that inspire and warm our hearts are often dismissed as manipulative, treacly or sentimental. Even the word ?inspirational? has gotten a bad rap. But some stories are simply that: inspiring and heartwarming. 'Queen of Katwe', which chronicles the true story of a young female Ugandan chess champion, is just such a tale."