Since Netflix released “The Queen’s Gambit” in late October audiences have received it as an immediate favorite. Staring the likes of Anya Taylor Joy and Thomas Brodie-Sangster, the miniseries is one of Netflix’s most popular of 2020.

The show draws influence from Walter Tevis’ novel of the same name. Set in the 1960’s, the series depicts Beth Harmon’s experiences as a chess prodigy. Audiences witness the transition of Harmon from an orphan to an adult and a well-known Chess player. The viewers grow up with Harmon and experience her relationships, hardships, and victories alongside with her.

Throughout her journey, Harmon struggles with substance abuse, alcoholism, trauma from her early childhood, and sexism from her male counterparts. Viewers experience and understand the downside of Harmon’s genius. Harmon’s issues that come with her talent such as the stress of her chess-dominated lifestyle and drug addiction add a realistic component to the show that audiences may resonate with.

The brilliance of the show reveals itself through the plot, character development, costumes, etc. and earns its high ratings. The show received a 100% rating from Rotten Tomatoes, an 8.7/10 on IMDb, and 4/5 on Common Sense Media. The genius of the series is further shown in the rise in chess sales. Three weeks after the release of the show, chess set sales rose 87% and chess book sales soared by 603%.

Overall, the television show has an excellent storyline and characters that captivate and inspire viewers. The series emerges the audience in the world of chess and all of the triumphs and hindrances that come with it, creating an unforgettable experience.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDrieqwSdgI&authuser=0