Orphaned at the tender age of nine, prodigious introvert Beth Harmon discovers and masters the game of chess in 1960s USA. But child stardom comes at a price.Orphaned at the tender age of nine, prodigious introvert Beth Harmon discovers and masters the game of chess in 1960s USA. But child stardom comes at a price.Orphaned at the tender age of nine, prodigious introvert Beth Harmon discovers and masters the game of chess in 1960s USA. But child stardom comes at a price.
- Won 11 Primetime Emmys
- 56 wins & 51 nominations total
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Summary
Reviewers say 'The Queen's Gambit' is acclaimed for its engaging narrative, exceptional performances, especially Anya Taylor-Joy, and meticulous period details. The series is celebrated for delving into themes like addiction, female empowerment, and genius complexities. However, some critics note oversimplification of chess, reliance on clichés, and historical inaccuracies. Despite these issues, many find the show emotionally resonant and a remarkable television achievement.
Featured reviews
When you've seen everything on Netflix, a you will watch any new show they throw at you. I did not have high expectations. But I was so wrong. So wonderfully and totally wrong.
We watched Queen's Gambit, all seven hours of it, in a single sitting. This show is an absolute gem. Remarkable acting by Anya Taylor-Joy who will be a force to be reckoned with, her child counterpart- an absolute marvel. The series is smart, it's inspiring at times, it's sad and heartbreaking at times. Who knew watching game-plays of simulated chess can make your heart pound out of your ears? Truly, a story of determination, friendship, self discovery, struggle and triumph. I don't know about you, but my ceiling will be covered in chess pieces tonight.
It's not only a good series, it's not only the wonderful story, acting, cinematography, music. You watch it and it feels like the movie itself is a chessgame. With a rather weak opening indeed, a fabulous middlegame and a perfect ending. It's the kind of movies/series that stucks you in your armchair, on your couch or even in your bed anyway, forgetting about eating, sleeping, living. After the end, the return to reality has not yet occurred. You are still tormented in dimly lit orphanages, you travel all over the world, you are welcomed in super-bright chess tournaments a little more arrogant and well-dressed and you analyze variants. Do not miss it!
10ccrisss
Watched it all in one night.
I didn't think a story about chess would keep me interested. But this one got me deeply invested.
Because this is not just about the game of chess, it's so much more.
Ultimately, what I cared about wasn't just the game anymore, it was the person. I was rooting for her. I really cared what would happen to her and that's probably the most essential thing for me when watching any tv series.
What made me attached to this character was how I saw her grow up from a little orphan girl, witnessing her from the first chess game all the way to the end and everything in between. I was enthralled, inspired, moved, proud. Had me in tears too. Excellent cast, story, cinematography, writing, everything. Thank you for this. Thank you.
Ultimately, what I cared about wasn't just the game anymore, it was the person. I was rooting for her. I really cared what would happen to her and that's probably the most essential thing for me when watching any tv series.
What made me attached to this character was how I saw her grow up from a little orphan girl, witnessing her from the first chess game all the way to the end and everything in between. I was enthralled, inspired, moved, proud. Had me in tears too. Excellent cast, story, cinematography, writing, everything. Thank you for this. Thank you.
I was absolutely blown away by how good The Queen's Gambit was! The only reason I actually started watching it was because of all the great ratings/reviews and I'm glad I did because it was such an entertaining series. It's set during the Cold War era and follows orphaned chess prodigy Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy) as she struggles with addiction in her quest to become the greatest chess player in the entire world. Taylor-Joy has been a rising star for the last few years but she breaks out here as she was just absolutely terrific as the lead. She's now one of the hottest young actresses in Hollywood. This ended up winning an Emmy for most Outstanding Limited Series.
You'll end up like me, binge watching it until 5 AM (and I don't even know anything about chess). Very well written, directed and acted.
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaIt took writer and producer Allan Scott about thirty years to get this show into production. During that time, he rewrote the story nine times and approached several studios. Each studio rejected the show, as they believed that nobody would be interested in chess. Ironically, this show became the most viewed show on Netflix, attracting over 62 million viewers worldwide within a month after its debut.
- GoofsBeth is sent to Bradley's by Alma with a note to get 3 packs of Chesterfields. The clerk hands her just one pack, which is seen again when she looks at the chess magazine and again when she walks out of Bradley's. Yet when she arrives home, she places 3 packs down on the kitchen counter.
- Quotes
Harry Beltik: Anger's a potent spice. A pinch wakes you up. Too much dulls your senses.
- ConnectionsFeatured in Jeremy Vine: Episode #3.227 (2020)
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