Chess drama QUEEN OF KATWE starring Lupita Nyong'o to be released September 23 for Academy Award

Disney has given the Lupita Nyong’o chess drama “Queen of Katwe” an awards-season release date with a limited launch on Sept. 23, followed by a Sept. 30 expansion. “Queen of Katwe” is directed by Mira Nair (“Mississippi Masala”) from a screenplay by William Wheeler (“The Hoax”) based on Tim Crothers’ book “The Queen of Katwe: A Story of Life, Chess and One Extraordinary Girl’s Dream of Becoming a Grandmaster.” David Oyelowo and newcomer Madina Nalwanga are also starring in the film. The story follows a young girl selling corn on the streets of rural Uganda whose world rapidly changes when she is introduced to the game of chess. She receives support from her family and community, and is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.

This story was first reported on Variety.com.

See the short documentary about Phiona Mutesi here.

#queenofkatwe #lupitanyongo