Black Joy Film Fest: QUEEN OF KATWE

Queen of Katwe, a celebratory and empowering evening at the Black Joy Film Fest at The Billie Holiday Theater. Bring the family, pack a lawn chair, get your favorite snacks, and settle in for a movie and social gathering under the summer sun.

Ten-year-old Phiona (Madina Nalwanga), her mother (Lupita Nyong’o), and her siblings constantly struggle to survive in the Katwe slum in Kampala, Uganda. One day, she meets Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches kids how to play chess, and her entire world shifts. Under Katende’s tutelage, Phiona develops an intense interest in the game and quickly rises to the top. Her achievements in regional contests and competitions provide her with a promising future and a fantastic opportunity to break free from poverty.