The Queen's Gambit

Bare Bones:

A young girl uses her amazing chess skills to escape her life at an orphanage.

1 Season

7 Episodes

Episode Length 48 – 67 min.

ABT (Approx. Binge Time) – 7 hours

Overall Thoughts:

No, it's not another scrapbook about the British monarchy. The Queen's Gambit refers to a strategy in the game of Chess. The main character discovers at the age of 10 that she is an extraordinary chess player, while trying to maneuver the unbearable pressures at her orphanage home in 1950's Kentucky. An engaging story that gives the game of Chess a stimulating brand.

What Makes This Show Special:

The Queen's Gambit gives the viewer space to process what's going on. It is quiet and deliberate, and sometimes it takes a few seconds to recognize the milestones that Beth Harmon has reached as the lone female chess player in high-level competition. You work to understand the motivations of the various characters, just as a new chess player learns the movements of each piece. And the story is visually exciting to watch!

Beware Of:

The pacing of the show is not typical and the pay-offs are more subtle than you are used to, yet it mimics the energy levels of chess, where most of the commotion is inside your head.

For Dawg Eyes Only: Not much here for dawgs. Chess is a game made by humans, for humans. You might enjoy watching games pieces moving magically across the ceiling, but that's about it.

Netflix