The Queen’s Gambit, starring Anya Taylor Joy, arrived on 23 October this year on Netflix, here’s our review of Season One.

It’s based on the 1983 novel by Walter Tevis. The author comments that he was not inspired by any specific player to create the main character. He was inspired by his experiences as a chess player and in his tournaments.

He also took inspiration in his daughter and his aunt since they had powerful character. Both served to be the model of Beth’s personality and attitude.

How did this series originate?

At an early age, Beth is an orphan girl who discovers her true passion and vocation: chess. The story transports us to the United States in the 50s. She will live and experience a wave of emotions and learning with it, on the way to trying to become a chess champion.

The Queen’s Gambit shows that a series can be exciting, adorable, and show a great visual style. Unlike other series released in recent months on Netflix, it has a content of value that goes beyond a beautiful dress.

Scott Frank and Allan Scott are the people in charge and the masterminds behind this project. They make chess one of the most exciting activities thanks to a dynamic montage that takes away the tedium from most of the games.

They also have an incredible setting. Although the camera loves chess and its pieces, also loves the people behind them.

How does Beth move on the board of her life?

Anya Taylor Joy is in charge of giving life to Beth. In this role, it is verified that she is, currently, one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

Like the game, the character does not ask for permission to make the next move. She acts on her instincts and looking out for her best interests at the moment. Although sometimes her decisions do not always end up being favourable.

During these games, the camera focuses on Beth’s face, eyes, and hands. This makes the viewer understand that the intention is not to teach the plays. The most important thing is the weight that each action on the board has within the protagonist.

It can be said that Anya Taylor Joy has managed to channel those emotions without problems. The spectators, even if they do not know chess and do not understand anything of what happens in the games, can feel anxious and excited. Everyone wishes that Beth wins again.

The white and black pieces of history

Now, both the loss and the search for purpose are two key elements in the story. Not only for the protagonist but also for all the characters that go with her, such as her mother. It is quite interesting and striking how Alma’s character, played by the wonderful Marielle Heller, was developed.

It is memorable the exquisite way they explored the adolescence of Beth, as she only wants to experience life. Her methods were drinking, using pills, and dating strangers.

Also, it is completely fascinating how they pose the relationship between mother and daughter. There is a kind of agreement or empathy not expressed verbally.

In fact, the mother often acts childishly; she leaves her daughter in the background as she is searching for her own place in life. Yet, this is not something that creates conflict, as Beth’s character understands her. And it is not natural that she can have this way of understanding. Beth also asks herself every day: where is my life going? Who am I without chess?

In fact, there are chapters where the mother’s behaviour works as a trigger for Beth to ask these questions and keep them in her head forever. At this moment, it becomes more evident how each of the games serves her as a catharsis. With these games, Beth can unload all her fears and insecurities.

Something peculiar is how the series touches on delicate topics, such as addictions, abandonment, and death. In reality, the series never pretends to be a tragedy. Thus, it is not that this is being taken superficially, but that they do not take it to its last consequences to maintain an optimistic arc. This is the general tone of the series: one that excites you and not one that depresses you.

From children’s games to adult games

Now, it is important to highlight how wonderful the subject of sexuality was treated, especially in the scenes of Beth’s childhood. We often forget that curiosity about sex begins to exist from a very young age. Our review finds that the way it is treated in The Queen’s Gambit, through a girl of only nine years old, is very well achieved.

Besides the fact that this topic evolves as Beth grows, it also addresses issues of sexuality, desire, and love. It is very important to note that the actress who played Beth in her child version, Johnston Island, did it fantastically.

The creators had a monumental task by showing different games in each episode without losing the rhythm and strength. In particular, it seems to me that they managed to solve it elegantly. Although sometimes it can get boring to watch so many chess games in one episode, the truth is that they do manage to keep the attention in most of them.

Something stunning was the use and treatment of ellipsis and time jumps, not only between years but also between days. This shows that they knew well what must be shown to avoid plot holes; In this way, the story managed to flow gracefully and naturally.

The most powerful piece on the board

Another important point to highlight is that the series is addressing the issue of a girl in the middle of a manly activity. The way they treat feminism in this miniseries is perfect. In fact, the character does not like that articles written about her always highlights the fact that she is the only woman. She considers that this is not her most relevant attribute or merit.

She doesn’t want labels, she wants to be the best at what she does, and that is exactly where we should aim. Stop thinking only as a woman in a sea of men, because it is not only about a woman standing out, but a human being.

Emotions in every movement

Finally, in our review, The Queen’s Gambit is a charming and exciting series, with a very tasteful production. The production reflects the Cold War era, both in spaces and in the clothing that elegantly evolves into Beth.

If we see it well, the white and black board is only the space for our protagonist to display her most intimate fears and emotions. Then we, as spectators, have the joy of witnessing her plays in the front row.

CULTURE CROSSING SCORE 10/10

Thank you for reading our review of The Queen’s Gambit. Do you agree or disagree with our points or have anything to add? If so, leave us a comment below.

Read more of our Netflix reviews HERE.

Read IMDB information about The Queen’s Gambit HERE.

The Queen’s Gambit is streaming now on Netflix.