The Queen´s Gambit Review

One of the most engaging series you can watch on Netflix is The Queen's Gambit, a Netflix Original Miniseries, released on October 23, 2020. It was directed by Scott Frank and based on Walter Tevis’ 1983 novel. It follows the story of Beth Harmon, an orphan chess prodigy who dreams of becoming the world’s greatest chess player but also struggles with alcohol and drug dependency from a young age. It is set around the 1960s, an extremely sexist moment, so you can imagine how the chess world was dominated by men and the challenge it was for Harmon to succeed.

In the show, we see Beth, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, grow up and overcome every test life brings her, from her mother’s death to become an independent woman and even competing to be the chess world champion. We can see how every situation affects her and her growth through her appearance and fashion, and we can feel everything she’s feeling by means of her amazing acting. Beth’s strong personality and attitude make her stand out in a world that is not made for her, and seeing her breaking the mold and empowering herself is one of the best parts of the show for me. 

In my opinion, this is one of Netflix’s best shows because it is very well written, directed, and acted. It really stands out because of its ability to transmit emotions and create the perfect mood. Although it's not the easiest to watch and it does touch delicate subjects, this show is so captivating and interesting that it's very difficult to press pause on it. I'm sure you'll end up binge watching it even if you don't know anything about chess just like I did. Being a miniseries, we only get seven spectacular episodes narrating this story; yet, they are more than enough to make people cry, laugh, get frustrated, or even angry but most importantly, and likely, make them love it.

Some things that make me like this series so much are the topics it touches on: it deals with loneliness, traumas, addiction, self-expression, and gender bias, as expected for a 1960’s context. I really like how it brings attention to these topics without it being overwhelming; and how they give purpose and depth to the story. Throughout the show, we can see how Beth is alienated, and the fact that she doesn't really fit in, making her find her own path and style, which makes her unique. 

This series has had excellent audience responses. In fact, it's number 5 in Netflix Colombia’s top ten, not only because of the exceptionally interesting plot with twists that keep everyone on their toes, but also because of all the characters and their development throughout the show. It even received praise from the chess community because of its portrayal of the game and its players, and as Mike Hale said in his article in the New York Times, “if it doesn’t win you over, “Gambit” will at least play you to a draw.”