It seems like every other movie these days is a heartwarming tale of a young girl’s struggles, or a boy’s fight against the trials of life. “Queen of Katwe,” starring Madina Nalwanga, also tells the heartwarming tale of a young girl’s struggles. Her story, however, is rather different. “Queen of Katwe” is magnificently produced based on the book by Tim Crothers about the life of Phiona Mutesi.

Growing up in Kampala, Uganda, Phiona Mutesi (Madina Nalwanga) was like everyone else. Selling maize to provide for her family, everyday was the same. Her mother, Nakku Harriet (Lupita Nyong’o), expected the best from her in an attempt to give them the best life available in the middle of poverty-stricken East Africa. Along with two brothers and a sister, Phiona lives in a small shack on top of a dirt street. Her journey starts with a soccer game in which her brothers and “Coach” Robert Katende (David Oyelowo) chat about ways they can beat the city boys. Thus, they are introduced to the game of chess.

Coach forms a group called the Pioneers, where he meets with the local children to feed them and teach them to play chess. Phiona stumbles upon this group and falls in love with the game to discover she possess a great talent. Throughout the years, she becomes a better player and competes locally, nationally and internationally with great success. She brings pride to her small village and learns incredibly valuable life lessons along the way. Director Mira Nair does a beautiful job tackling cultural issues, while bringing Mutesi’s story to life in the two-hour film.

When they arise, Coach capitalizes on chances to educate them through the game. Chess teaches them the importance of optimism, perseverance and embracing one’s roots. In the same way, the movie teaches viewers similar values from the emotional performance given. The film is lengthy, but it thoroughly covers the plotline while showing the extreme destitution of East Africa. The actors give an amazing rendition of the story, making it nearly impossible to not shed a few tears.

Though opportunities are limited in her country, Phiona makes the best of what she has. Viewers are taken on an emotional roller coaster in this can’t-miss PG film. It is brilliant in inspiring people through her story and the trials and tribulations she faces. It’s hard not to love this heartwarming tale of a young girl’s struggles (and successes) that was so wonderfully brought to the big screen. The plot is full of great twists and turns as viewers go on a journey alongside the family. Based on a true story has never been more motivating for people of all ages. “Queen of Katwe” is simply amazing.