‘Queen of Katwe’ hits Nigeria

Hollywood movie, Queen of Katwe, finally made a strong debut in Nigerian entertainment industry last Friday.

Queen of Katwe, a Disney movie featuring Lupita Nyong and David Oyelowo, both of African descent,   was premiered to select audience comprising 125 pupils from Radiant college, Emmanuel College, Corona Schools, Tenny College and  Victorious College in Lagos State.

The premiere was facilitated by Blue Pictures, representing Crimson Multimedia in Nigeria.

Living in the slum of Katwe in Kampala, Uganda, is a constant struggle for 10-year-old Phiona (Madina Nalwanga) and her family. Her world changes one day when she met Robert Katende (David Oyelowo), a missionary who teaches children how to play chess. Phiona becomes fascinated with the game and soon becomes a top player under Katende’s guidance. Her success in local competitions and tournaments opens the door to a bright future and a golden chance to escape from a life of poverty.

According to Joy Illibeno, CEO of Blue Pictures, Queen of Katwe is a movie made to portray the many positive things in Africa.  “Queen of Katwe is your typical slumdog millionaire story but written and directed by a Ugandan. It emphasizes the need for self belief and achieving one’s life goals amidst all odds.”

Speaking on the necessity of having the students in attendance, Joy said “we decided to carry along Nigeria college student as the film resonates and speak largely on the girl child education and education in general. We all know not all children are born with silver spoon in their mouth, but all children have the will power to strive hard and refuse to take a N0 in life. Queen of Katwe showcases the need to support your children in any sporting activity of their choice as you never can tell as a parent what good fortune may come out of that sport”.