The Queen's Gambit

A brilliant but troubled girl named Beth Harmon grows up in a 1950s orphanage where she discovers an unusual gift for chess after learning the moves from the custodian and a janitor. As she climbs the ranks from local clubs to international tournaments, she battles loneliness, addiction, and the expectations placed on a young woman in a male-dominated world. The series follows her strategic rise and the personal costs that accompany success, showing how talent, obsession, and relationships shape her decisions without giving away the outcomes of key matches or her final fate.

Released in 2020, the series was created for television by Scott Frank and Allan Scott, adapted from Walter Tevis' novel. Scott Frank also directed several episodes, and the production is noted for its meticulous period detail and stylish cinematography.

The show earned significant awards attention, taking home multiple Emmy Awards and Golden Globes. Its accolades recognized the series as a standout limited run and highlighted Anya Taylor-Joy's performance among other production achievements.

After its premiere, the show sparked a resurgence of interest in chess, with sales of boards and pieces rising and online chess platforms reporting increased traffic. Beth Harmon’s look and the series' 1960s wardrobes influenced fashion and social media, and a number of high-profile players and commentators praised how the show made chess feel cinematic and accessible to new audiences.

Critics largely praised the series, reflected in strong viewer ratings and an 8.45/10 average from a broad voter base. Reviewers highlighted the lead performance, the show's pacing, and the period production values, while discussions focused on themes of genius, addiction, control, and identity. The storytelling balances intense match sequences with quieter personal moments, and the show often frames Beth’s brilliance alongside the costs she pays for it.