The stars of “Queen of Katwe”, including David Oyelowo, Lupita Nyong’o, Madina Nalwanga, Martin Kabanza, will be joined by the real-life inspirations behind the characters – Robert Katende, Phiona Mutesi – at the premiere at Roy Thomson Hall Saturday night.
The film is based on the uplifting true story of Mutesi, a young girl from the streets of Kampala, Uganda whose world rapidly changes after she’s introduced to the game of chess by a missionary, Katende. Instilled with confidence by Katende, she begins to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion.
In the upcoming movie, newcomer Madina Nalwanga plays Mutesi, and “Selma” star David Oyelowo plays coach Katende. Check out photos of the real figures and their on-screen counterparts below.
Directed by Mira Nair and also starring Nyong’o, the film will have its world premiere at TIFF tonight and we will be livestreaming at approximately 5:30 p.m. ET.