Disney's Queen Of Katwe Bluray

Home audiences will cheer for Disney’s “Queen of Katwe,” the inspirational journey of a young girl from the streets of Uganda to world-class chess player, which has earned widespread critical acclaim, including a 93% Certified Fresh critics consensus on Rotten Tomatoes. The triumphant film, which is based on a true story, arrives home on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA) on Jan. 10 and on Blu-ray, DVD and On-Demand on Jan. 31.

The in-home release of “Queen of Katwe” takes viewers behind-the-scenes with filmmakers, as well as the cast and their real-life counterparts, through extensive bonus features, including a three-part documentary highlighting the amazing personal stories behind the film; audio commentary by director Mira Nair (“Salaam Bombay!,” “Mississippi Masala,” “Monsoon Wedding”); a short film by Nair depicting the life of Robert Katende; in-studio access to 15-time GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist Alicia Keys during the creation of her new original song “Back to Life;” deleted scenes; and more. 

The film stars David Oyelowo, Golden Globe nominated for his portrayal of Martin Luther King Jr. in “Selma,” as dedicated chess mentor Robert Katende; Lupita Nyong’o, who earned worldwide acclaim with her Oscar-winning performance in “12 Years a Slave,” as fiercely determined mother Harriet; and luminous newcomer Madina Nalwanga as chess champion Phiona Mutesi.

Directed by Mira Nair from a screenplay by William Wheeler, “Queen of Katwe” is produced by Lydia Dean Pilcher, p.g.a., and John Carls, p.g.a., with Will Weiske and Troy Buder serving as executive producers. The film features a cutting-edge Afrobeat soundtrack curated by the Ugandan rapper Young Cardamom (aka Zohran Kwame Mamdani); Alex Heffes’ buoyant orchestral score highlighting traditional Ugandan instruments; and “Back to Life,” performed by Alicia Keys, written by Keys, Carlo Montagnese and Billy Walsh, and produced by Illangelo and Keys. 

My Thoughts

The Queen of Katwe is an uplifting movie inspired by actual events. Lupita is a young Ugandan girl who discovers that she has a talent for chess. She find a mentors to help train her, and works hard to overcome every obstacle. Before long, she acquires worldwide fame and becomes one of the best chess players in the world.

This was more than just a movie. It's the inspirational journey of one real girl who fought to make something of her life. Lupita lived in a part of the world where people in general, but especially women, had limited options. She rose above all that and didn't let anyone hold her back. She is truly an inspiration to women and girls everywhere.