When I first met with Lupita Nyong’o at the interview about her role and character creation of Raksha, the Mother-wolf of Mowgli cub, I was fascinated by her strong character, her life-embracing self-esteem, and her love for learning. Her strength is undeniable. Her love for the art of living comes from her upbringing and her mother’s example of a woman to emulate. Her character is the one we want to trust every time we see her in roles portraying other person’s tribulations and successes.
Queen Of Katwe is a movie of belief and determination that propel a person to succeed and achieve anything they want to through the path of tribulations and formidable challenges. Such movies inspire us in our own life. More importantly, they exemplify real people and real problems that can be overcome when they are determined and persevere.
“Queen of Katwe” is based on the vibrant true story of a young girl (Madina Nalwanga) from the streets of Uganda whose world changes when she is introduced to the game of chess, and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.
It is a remarkable story of perseverance against all odds that will leave viewers feeling humbled and inspired. According to director Mira Nair, “The triumph of the human spirit is not to weep for what we don’t have but to focus on what we do have and allow that to take us to a place we never imagined possible.”
Here are the Bonus Features for the Blu-Ray, Digital and DVD Edition.
• Queen Of Katwe: Their Story – Discover the stories behind the people who came together to bring the film to life, and how they reflect the vibrant community, culture and spirit it celebrates.
• A Fork, A Spoon & A Knight – Director Mira Nair’s short film about Robert Katende, a boy who grows up to transform a Ugandan city into a globally renowned chess sanctuary.
• In The Studio With Alicia Keys – Go behind-the-scenes with Alicia Keys for an inspiring look at the song’s recording.
• Alicia Keys “Back To Life” Lyric Video – Sing along with on-screen lyrics.
• Young Cardamom & HAB “#1 Spice” Music Video – The Ugandan hip-hop duo bring the flavor in a music video directed by Mira Nair.
• Audio Commentary – With Director Mira Nair.
• Deleted Scenes (8) – With Introductions by Director Mira Nair.
– Graduation – Robert is alone at his graduation.
– Job Application – Robert checks in on the status of his job application.
– Dancing and Rent – Phiona joins in dancing with local girls before the landlady pulls her away.
– Entering the Hospital – Harriet tries to look presentable as they rush Brian to the hospital.
– Escape from the Hospital – The family sneaks out of the hospital.
– They Can’t Go to Budo – Robert second-guesses taking the kids to the competition at King’s College Budo.
– Flood (Extended Scene) – A nearly 7-minute scene before, during and after the house is flooded.
– Phiona’s Chess Club – Phiona comes full circle as she teaches a little boy the same lessons Robert taught her in chess club.
DVD Edition
• Audio Commentary
• Alicia Keys “Back to Life” Lyric Video
• Young Cardamom & HAB “#1 Spice” Music Video