Disney has released the first trailer for their latest film, Queen of Katwe starring Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o and introducing Madina Nalwanga. The biographical drama follows a 10-year-old girl named Phiona Mutesi (Nalwanga) from Uganda who goes from selling corn in the streets to training to be a world chess champion. Through the support of her family and community, she’s able to reach heights she could’ve never dreamed of.
Her biggest support comes from her mother Harriet (Nyong’o), who sells vegetables in the market to make sure her children are never hungry. Phiona is impressed by the intelligence and wit the game requires and immediately shows potential. Recognizing Phiona’s natural aptitude for chess and the fighting spirit she’s inherited from her mother, Katende (played by David Oyelowo) begins to mentor her, but Harriet is reluctant to provide any encouragement, not wanting to see her daughter disappointed.
As Phiona begins to succeed in local chess competitions, Katende teaches her to read and write in order to pursue schooling. She quickly advances through the ranks in tournaments but breaks away from her family to focus on her own life. Her mother eventually realizes that Phiona has a chance to excel and teams up with Katende to help her fulfill her extraordinary potential, escape a life of poverty and save her family.
Queen of Katwe is directed by Mira Nair (New York, I Love You) and co-stars Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine (The Knick). The film heads to theaters on September 23.
