I had really wanted to see Queen of Katwe when it was in theaters. But, it never happened. Luckily for me, it’s now out on Blu-Ray! I can watch it anytime I would like from the comfort of my home. Queen of Katwe is a little personal for our family. I sponsor a child, she’s lives in Africa. I also have a cousin that has done work over in Africa working with youth, teaching them soccer and giving them an education. So when I heard the story of Queen of Katwe I knew I wanted to see it. I wanted to see how one child, a girl, made it out of the slums and became the chess champion of Katwe.
I will warn you, bring some tissues! While Queen of Katwe is very upbeat and positive it is also very touching. This is a real life story about an amazing girl, Phiona. Her positivity and strength are something to be admired. If seeing Phiona’s life unfold before your eyes doesn’t get you misty the music will. The music is full of heartfelt emotion. The combination of the story and the music meant I needed a box of tissues.
One part of the film that really resonated with me was when Phiona and her coach are sitting by the water and he tells her she could become the grand master. Phiona looks at him with uncertainty and confesses her doubts. He turns to her and says –
Sometimes the place you are used to is not the place you belong.
Those words really struck me. They are similar to what I tell Maria (the child I sponsor). I always tell her she can do and be anything. Don’t ever give up. Here, Phiona’s coach was doing the same thing. He was encouraging her to try. That, just because she is comfortable and used to her surroundings does not mean this is where she should stay.
I am so glad Disney brought Phiona’s story to the big screen so we could all take part in her journey. She is one incredible young lady.
Starting today, you can find Queen of Katwe out on Blu-Ray at your local retailer or online. If you have children I highly suggest watching this film as a family and discussing it afterward. It’s proof that no matter where you start out in life, it does not define you.
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