“Queen Of Katwe” a film which stars Oscar Award winner Lupita Nyong’o premiered in Uganda over the weekend.
The Kenyan actor, plays the role of Harriet, the mother of Phiona (Played by Madina Nalwanga) a film which based on a true story of Uganda’s talented chess player, whose world changes when she meets Robert Katende (David Oyelewo), a missionary who teaches her how to play chess, Phiona later becomes a phenomenal top player under Katende’s guidance. Her success in the game and local competitions opens doors to a bright future and a way out of poverty.
Nadina Nalwanga makes her debut on the silvers screen in the film which also stars Nigerian David Oyelewo.
“Queen Of Katwe” is an adaptation of an ESPN magazine and book by Tim Crothers, and produced Walt Disney Pictures and ESPN Films. The film was screened at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival. The film was released in limited release in North America on September 23, 2016, and in general theatrical release on September 30.
The critically acclaimed film was directed by the reputable Mira Nair, founder of Maisha Film Lab – a training program for East Africans. This is where Lupita honed her acting skills before her big Hollywood breakthrough two years ago.