The BRILLIANCE of THE QUEEN'S GAMBIT

I finished The Queen's Gambit in a single sitting. I was completely hooked.
Engaging. Unique. Brilliant. What a surprise hit this was!
(P.S. Completely forgot to mention how fantastic Isla Johnston was, in her role as the younger Beth Harmon- I definitely think she has a long and promising career ahead of her!)
Be sure to leave a LIKE and COMMENT your thoughts on The Queen's Gambit down below! What did you think of the show overall? Would you like to see a second season?
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Hello guys, I’m Dylan and it’s a pleasure to welcome you to The Popcorn Podcast. This is a brand-new KZbin Channel that stems from one of my biggest passions- Films. If you love watching movies, you’re in the right place.
On the channel, I’m going to be reviewing new movies upon release, discussing my favourite films, vlogging some cinema experiences and much more!
Please feel free to share and comment down below on any new videos you would like to see.
I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS OF THE MOVIES SHOWN.
ALL RIGHTS BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTFUL OWNERS.
This video is not intended to violate any Condition of Use.
Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favour of fair use.
VIDEO CHAPTERS
0:00 - Intro
01:28 - My Relationship with Chess
03:55 - Performances
06:42 - Cinematography
09:12 - Score
10:06 - Themes
13:46 - Outro

[@lynchzilla]

Too bad that nobody gives proper credit to 12-year-old actress Isla Johnson for her portrayal of the 9-year-old Beth Harmon, orphaned and thrust into the Christian girl's orphanage. While Anya Taylor-Joy makes a cameo appearance at the beginning of Episode 1, Ms. Johnson carried the rest of the episode, totally believable in appearance and demeanor as the 9 - 10 year-old Beth. I suspect we'll see more of her in the future.

[@bacsijancsi]

Absolutely she was also magnificent....

[@pogchamp2675]

she was fantastic! at least give isla johnson a wikipedia page

[@gspaulsson]

There was also the girl who played a much younger Beth, at the beginning of Episode 5.

[@StarSalt]

As Episode 1 is my favorite out of the whole series, her performance is really what sold it for me

[@fireballxl-5748]

There is no obvious reference to the school being a "Christian" school. You shouldn't make assumptions.

[@milton1448]

I wish Netflix understood their audience and focused on more material like this series. Everything about it was exceptional.

[@ccaeser]

The Queen's Gambit is by far the best show, story, acting, production and more, that I have ever seen in a very long time (and I am over 50 years old!). I couldn't resist watching the show two times in less than two weeks. And I agree completely with you, I was somehow disappointed that it was not real! But I keep looking the last shot, with that wonderful old man inviting Beth to a match, over and over and over again! Pure joy, indeed.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

It was such a perfect time for it to be released too- Just what everyone needed. Glad you enjoyed it too!

[@camrunster]

Totally agree with you, man. All the scenes were great and I did especially love the final scene with all of the older men chess players genuinely happy to meet her. I did read somewhere but I don't remember where that the last man (who invites her to play) was a grandmaster himself and had won the Open in the country where he came from. He doesn't seem to be listed in the credits so I don't know what his name is.

[@ferddiubaldo4324]

I think in the final scene, Beth’s walk in the park takes her back to her chess beginnings when she meets all the Mr. scheibels’ of Russia as her way of honouring him as her initial chess mentor.

[@drvelocio]

I'll top you, Mohammed. :-) I'm 80, and I'll say that it has to be the best thing I've seen on any screen, big or small. I just can't get over it.

[@Intheslithytoves]

@@camrunster Actually, I'm pretty sure that was amazing actor Christopher Plummer (aged 91!!) doing an uncredited cameo in the series. He has been around forever and is father to actress Amanda Plummer (Pulp Fiction). He was in "Knives Out" in 2019 with Jamie Lee Curtis, Don Johnson and Daniel Craig (with a southern accent) and starred in TV series "Departure" in 2018.

[@mariacanto1871]

I think the young girl playing Beth did an amazing job as well!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Definitely! I completely forgot to mention her in the video so I popped her in the description!

[@Moondog911]

Beth Harmon and the other characters are amalgamation of many different grandmasters of the era. Thats why it feels so real.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Definitely man. Well said!

[@jaymcnaughton8368]

BS they are so real because Walter Tevis wrote them, look p hie other books and you will see.

[@JOSHUA-hs4zt]

You said it right Andre. A feature of the greatest fiction is that it is not really fiction at all , but an an amalgam of sublimated themes based on real situations and events. For me, one of the finest achievements of the drama was the absence of pretentiousness that beleaguers so many films. Dylan, I also enjoyed your review by your sharing your own experiences in a connected way with the subject matter in just the right measure.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

@@JOSHUA-hs4zt Thanks buddy, my pleasure.

[@gretaenglish3519]

I am obsessed with this series! When I first watched it during the pandemic, it was like a breath of fresh air because it was the best original piece of cinema out there. The whole thing was gorgeous to look at with such a hauntingly beautiful score and amazing performances. I'm surprised that you didn't really give credit to Marielle Heller (Alma Wheatly) as Beth's adoptive mom. I thought she was also amazing with such a heartbreaking performance. One of my favorite moments was when all her good friends call during the Borgov adjournment in Russia. It gets me every time. Also when Beth goes back to the basement to grieve Shaibel's death and sees the wall with her clippings. But there are plenty of other wonderful moments as well, too many to mention. I guess that's why I'm still obsessed with it. :-))

[@duchi882]

Beth learning Chess from the Janitor reminds me of the time I learned Chess from the Farmers and Tricycle Drivers from the countryside of the Philippines

[@Rick9482]

I've seen it 4 times already and enjoyed each view as much as the first viewing. Not very many series or movies can match that kind of success. What an impact this has had on her career and yes, the young actress, Isla, also killed it.

[@jameshar9592]

I am a 57 year old man, I teared up at so many points in the series. Anya Taylor Joy is breathtakingly beautiful. Her acting alone was enough to captivate me. As far as scenes go, the call from benny and everyone helping her was amazing, and the final ceiling image was so emotional. I have rewatched this scene so many times. Jolene turned out to be a wonderful friend and props to the wall Mr. schibel kept of all her accomplishments. I watched all 7 hours straight through and never regretted it once.

[@protect_provide8031]

Im just happy the new it Hollywood actress can actually act,

[@casualagent7250]

I’m a 65 year old, I teared up also, many times.

[@robote7679]

I loved this show. No second season though. This is perfect and any sequel would have no chance to do other than taint this marvelous production. I thought every aspect of your video was excellently produced and realized. I have rewatched several episodes of Gambit several times and they still bring a tear of joy me. Thought you had excellent comments and like the series this felt like a very classy product.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Well said - that’s hard to disagree with! And thanks so much, I really appreciate it!

[@ralphtrout5587]

all the way through all 7 hours today.....just like I did two days ago......It's been a long....LONG TIME since I've seen anything remotely approaching the total quality film making / acting in this wonderful piece.

[@mariacanto1871]

The actress playing Bet’s mom was very supportive even though she was facing problems in her marriage. It just goes to show how a mother’s support and love can go a long way in a young woman’s life.

[@tomasengelbrechtsen]

What I specially liked about this story was that it was positive! The people and surroundings of poor little Beth were not all negative and awfull to her, like in a Charles Dickens story. They were willing to help and were even quite nice to her. You almost don't expect that in a movie today.

[@hannibalbarca6308]

This show was an absolute masterpeice

[@fiziwig]

I watched the entire series in one sitting. I loved it! I'm sure I'll watch it again.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Haha me too buddy!

[@randyranson84]

One of the greatest series ever produced, a must watch, and you treated it with the respect it deserved.

[@stonew1927]

Good analysis. Congratulations. I think this series is simply one of the most astounding pieces of cinema I've ever seen. Everything about it was perfect. The entire cast was perfect and deserve credit. The lighting, cinematography, costuming, set designs, writing, directing... every aspect of the project deserves recognition and awards. I was hooked from the initial moments of the first episode. And feel enriched by the experience of having lived so intensely, vicariously through the cast and story lines. Very grateful to have gotten to view this program. I rarely watch movies and don't own a television. My sister gave me the password for Netflix and just happened to browse the shows and picked this one from the tiny preview. Boy, am I ever glad I did! The Queen's Gambit is simply astounding in every way!!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you! I’m glad you came across the show!

[@protect_provide8031]

Anna is a great actress id say this series was her best work and the actor who played her step mother was equally perfect, great cast overall, few shows can say their entire cast were performing immaculately

[@toddparent2417]

I loved the short interspersed scenes with Beth's crazy, genius mother, especially the one where we see that her biological mother is not only a genius but an Olympic caliber swimmer

[@russellthorburn9297]

A series centring on chess and it's both suspenseful and riveting even to those who aren't obsessed with chess. Unthinkable but absolutely true.

[@bl3313]

To me, it didn't exactly "come out of nowhere". I'd read the book back in the 1980s (and reread it many times since) and always knew it could be great in live-action - IF it was done right. To my amazement, it was: 1. The story followed the book almost perfectly. 2. It was done as a period piece, not stuffed into the a 21st century setting 3. It wasn't dumbed down. As for number 2 above: Wow. Did they ever put the effort into recreating the 1950s and 1960s. I understand a lot of it was CGI. But I don't care how they did it. They did it. And perfect casting, too.

[@queen.cigarette]

I thought it was brilliant the way the writers wove Tevis's 3rd person narrative from the novel into the voices of characters who didn't exist in the novel (namely the twins) -- in many cases it was lifted directly off of the page. I found it rewarding to go back and read the book after having seen the series, and making such discoveries.

[@jahnghalt3864]

You may be interested in a "zoom video" with Scot Frank, Marielle Heller, Anya, others. They go into the cities used for exteriors. Berlin (!) Toronto and Cambridge in Ontario. Many of the interiors were practical locations in Berlin. (one presumes West Berlin - with an actual economy - not suppressed by the Soviet boot) Also see the current (2023JAN) wiki entry.

[@jahnghalt3864]

I believe part of the movie magic was to "dress" a Berlin hotel for the Vegas scene - what a mezzanine! I suspect the distant exterior to start that scene was indeed CGI - "splicing in" "the strip"

[@davidrichardson5368]

I've binged watched the Queen's Gambit twice. I remember playing a game of Chess with a girl at a Starveathon to raise money for world hunger. She beat me in three moves. I fell in love with her in that moment. Here was a beautiful and intelligent woman to be reckoned with. Oh I miss you Cindy

[@nigelmitchell309]

I grew up in Penn State as a 12 year old during the mid 1960's. Watching this series was just like I remember, the school (don't believe i ever a had pizza) the corner pharmacy were perfect locations. I became obsessed with the mini-series and have now watched it 15-20 times. The book is also a revelation and well ahead of its time, within the book you have the advantage of Beth's thoughts like when she first picks up a weighted wooden chess piece, and she explaines the heaviness and the silky smoothness of the polished surface and how nice it is compaired to the plastic pieces. I would recommend reading the book as well as watching the mini-series, as to a second series I'm torn between yes and no.

[@ebouwens]

I love that each segment opens with a complex new color theme, starting with spare dark green opening segment, to more lush and sophisticated ones later in the film. I could just stop the film and sit and take in each of those opening scenes as a work of art in itself. Thank you for the outstanding and insightful review.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Very insightful comment from you! Thank you!

[@anamm3351]

Best show for me of 2020. and you did amazing review.. most of Queen Gambit is filmed in Berlin (all famous locations).

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you! And yes I know, it’s amazing! Hope that Netflix green light another season. 😄

[@anamm3351]

@@ThePopcornPodcast I am just greatful that so unexpected we got such great show

[@drvelocio]

That amazed me. The sets were astounding. But I do find it hard to believe that they could reconstruct that small mid-western town as well as they did on a set in Berlin. Small-town America in the early sixties. It's perfect, and I know, as I was there.

[@sas9153]

This show is a masterpiece. From the aesthetix 1960s vibe and look all the way down to the writing, acting and the music scores. The writing and the meaning behind everything on this show is very well crafted. I'd just like to share some of what I've picked up from watching it. if you didnt know yet, what it takes for a pawn to become a queen, the diagonal line has to be open, no pieces hindering it or blocking it's way to get to the 8th square., symbolizing Beth's life, she had to remove all of the things hindering her to become the world champion and to take control of her life and win. She did by Stopping taking the pills and alcohol. You can't create an open diagonal line without the help of other pieces to clear its way, kind of like how Beth's friends helped her to beat borgov. Now, The Queen's Gambit, the move sheibel taught her, is a chess opening gambit that requires a pawn sacrifice in order to take control of the center and gain dominant position to win..when I play this move I almost always lose the pawn in front of my queen. in this case, Mr sheibel is the pawn. I realized that after he died, that's when beth started to gain control of her life. She has always struggled with control in life, but sheibel taught her the one thing she has control over, chess. Also that game with the old guy before the borgov game, the guy said " Brilliant recovery," talking about the game but reflecting Beth's recovery from struggling with addiction. The end game with borgov, we saw beth in a bad position, when I first saw that position my brain really thought there was no way out and there is no other outcome but a loss for beth, but man was i wrong, beth sacrificed her queen to give way for the pawn to finaly reach the 8th square, giving birth to another queen which then turned the tides and gave her advantagous position which then ultimately led to her winning the game. That was Beth's gambit, queen sacrifice in most of her games but in this one, she won with a new queen. This mirrors the fact that beth had to kill her old self in order for a new queen to come forth and win. At the end she chose to walk, refusing the white house offer to meet the president just like she refused the jesus people with political agendas, a queen does what ever she wants, she is not anyone's pawn, she even looked like a white queen piece at the end. There's so much more but im to lazy to type. This show is a masterpiece and beth is so mesmerizing I love her. I can't praise this show enough

[@maikusch]

ja, die Gebäude in der Stalinallee kamen mir doch gleich bekannt vor :)

[@albertcadiz7000]

I first heard a friend raving about this show on Facebook and then I forgot about it. Until I got Netflix many months later at the start of a lengthy, stressful and very lonely hospital stay. I knew it was about chess and Ive played off and on with years-long gaps in between since I was 3. I learned from my dad from a plastic Pressman brand chess set with small pieces and a humbly printed masonite chessboard. (USA produced late 60s and modern iterations can still be found in some outlets) To say I liked "The Queen's Gambit" is a gross understatement. I devoured the series in a day. This is a brilliant mini series for all you pointed out and more. I do feel that the score is rarely mentioned in many commentaries and kudos to you for giving it a shout out. It captured the emotion, the isolation and the gravitas of events unfolding. I wept when Beth cried on Jolene's shoulder. I got chills during the final moments of her Championship match when she looks up at the ceiling and no longer burdened by her demons found her chess board teaching her again. And finally I smiled as she walked like a Queen through the park for a friendly game of chess with the locals. This was the series I didn't know I wanted and I've watched it a second time now. Brilliant recap video!

[@tanler7953]

The final game against Borgov was meant to pay homage to the famous Marshall-Capablanca match of 1918. Capablanca had not yet become world champion and neither had Beth. But it does portend her victory at the world championships, which for Capablanca would be three years hence.

[@mikecane]

Her transformation from seeking the approval of the popular girls to realizing she has more going for herself than they do for themselves. Clip of that brilliant sequence here on KZbin. The Vogues singing.

[@richardrose2606]

Loved the series. One thing I was surprised you didn't mention was the use of fashion. How as Beth matured, gaining confidence in herself both as a person and developing her talent, this was paralleled in the sophistication of how she dressed. I'm sure the director did this intentionally.

[@scottshankland6811]

Best thing I've seen on Netflix. I'm well down the rabbit hole on this one!

[@mochilero13]

Without a doubt, my favorite limited series ever, for all the reasons you state. When I am tense at night and worried about falling asleep, I love to listen to the fabulous score and watch moments of her triumphs in order to relax and take me away from my petty personal struggles. My only criticism of your video is that you neglect to mention the original author Walter Tevis who gifted us this remarkable tale. I first read it in the 1980s when it was published and have thrilled in rereading it many times. When it cameout on Netflix I was skeptical. Never fear, the show is indeed remarkable. But Tevis is owed all of our gratitude.

[@allamakazam3847]

I watched the video the whole way through and then noticed your subscriber count. Wow you definitely deserve more credit Great series and great video

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

I appreciate the kind words, thanks a lot!

[@josephpelzel3144]

This was so well done that it seemed real. But I knew it wasn’t. I’ve been playing chess since I was eight and am old man now. I saw the whole series in 2 days and hope they produce more.

[@pattimurphyrocks]

I watched the entire series without stopping and then did so again. I think it is so beautifully done and though I knew the outcome of the trip to Russia, I still stood up and cheered for Beth when she won. The casting could not be better. Also, I loved the music score and the choice of pop songs used. Brilliant. I cannot say enough good things about this series.

[@billweberx]

I believe that I watched it at least 30 times. I never bore of it, but I do fast forward through a lot of the drama.

[@musiciansoldlady]

I was addicted after my first viewing. Compelling music, story line. I have since watched it at least 5 times. I particularly liked that Beth did not have perfect teeth. Made her more real. Her eyes and cheekbones are magnetic. .

[@ms.bubs4fun506]

Great performances from the actresses that played Alma, Jolene, and of course Beth.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Definitely!

[@ccaeser]

It's ridiculous! I have seen the show so many times, yet every time I see Beth takes the photo with Mr. Shaibel I have to resist crying! Also, when she leaves the orphanage and waves to him.. and when she looks at the wall in the basement after he dies! I cry.. that is ridiculous indeed!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Man, I bursted into tears when she sees their photo after he’s dead 😭 it’s truly heartbreaking.

[@JoePlett]

I could not agree more with every point you make - except the final one. I feel any additional content or "second season" could only ruin the symmetry and the "perfect (storytelling) game" which was embodied in these seven episodes. You rightly point out how everyone on both sides of the camera brought their A-Game and how the result transcends each of its perfectly tuned parts. Much as I would never want there to be an "After Casablanca" or a "Princess Bride II", I will cherish the seven amazing episodes and the "perfect (to me) ending" . Any more content in this universe could only dilute the magic. I'd much prefer to see the amazing talents behind this collaboration devote themselves to finding new ways to enchant us.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Well said! If I'm completely being honest, I won't be too unhappy if there isn't a second season because of the reasons you've stated BUT I would still welcome a continuation of Beth's story. I feel like now we've seen her journey to 'becoming the best', there's potential for a new dynamic to her character which is 'maintaining being the best'. If there's a strong script that can truly justify why a second season would be beneficial to this world and the characters in it, I'm all for it - however like you said, theres always risks of diluting the magic we found with the first season. Thanks for your comment, it's great that we can have a discussion that is respectful whilst considering each other's viewpoints!

[@smarkslowplay3512]

How can there be a 2nd season to a novel adaptation miniseries?

[@jahnghalt3864]

It sure seems to me that Beth's story is just getting started - there is far more to her future than has passed up to late 1968 (and another World Championship coming in 1969). Smark asked (rhetorically) "how can there be a 2nd season to a novel adaptation?" Frank could do it - see how well he understood all about the story. Unlikely that he will - however.

[@Tom-tl2qz]

Such an engaging and impressive series. Same with the video too

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks bro! 🙏🏽

[@treefarm3288]

I just watched The Queen's Gambit for the second time, two years later, because it was the best thing on netflix. I have almost never re-watched or reread fiction so soon. Beth and the supporting characters are terrific, she is beautiful and I really feel for her. It is also beautifully filmed and acted.

[@gretathalman8089]

My husband taught our grandson recently. He fell in love, won his very first game. Then wanted to learn more, so hes studying moves on youtube. We went camping recently, and his mom didn't let him pack his chess set. I brought ours. When I got to the campsite, b4 getting out of the car he was at the door, asking do you have the chess game, I unpacked it first thing. Off to the camper he went with his friends they are all 10 years old. They played until 1am. Then at 6 am they came back for more playing time. I'm looking into chess clubs for him. He has hyperphantasia and can play in his head at night. This show really hit home with me.

[@grubby124]

Best thing I've watched in years and years. I binge watched the entire series three times in a single week after first discovering it by accident, and each time I watched it I found some little gem of meaning that had slipped past previously. That was about two weeks ago, and now I'm getting the urge to binge watch it for a fourth time. It's THAT good!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

I’ve still only seen it the once but very much looking forward to re-watching it again soon!

[@janco333]

Ive watched it 7 times now, just cant stop

[@grubby124]

@@janco333 Right there with you. It's that good!

[@richardturner9317]

I could never have imagined that I would be completely hooked by a show based on chess ! The acting, plot, production & cinematography were exceptional.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Couldn't agree with you more!

[@sydneydileo]

So many people missed the amazing score. So glad you mentioned it! I can’t stop listening to it

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Haha couldn’t miss it! What are some of your favourite tracks from the score?

[@sydneydileo]

@@ThePopcornPodcast Moscow Invitational is one - it had a pretty cool harp part, and flute! I also really like Playing Townes and Training with Mr Schaibel. All of it is great for focusing at work lol

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

@@sydneydileo Haha definitely agree with you on that! I sometimes listen to it when I'm studying or writing. Ceiling Games, First Day at School and Kentucky State Championship 1963 are some of my many favourites from the score!

[@dandane4212]

I usually fall asleep after a few minutes of these but I watched the whole thing and was not disappointed at all. It was a great show in so many ways.

[@etrain8885]

I really like this essay. Thanks for putting some really good time into this. This show was an absolute game-changer for me, I couldn’t stop watching it. This is an underrated channel, and I look forward to watching it grow. A couple of quick suggestions, if they won’t offend: 1. Find a way to get your plosives under control on the mic (p’s and b’s popping and peaking) 2. Don’t censor yourself my friend. Either commit to the swear and send it, or just don’t swear :) Keep up the good work!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you and I appreciate the feedback!

[@AJFilms14]

One of my favorite tv/movie shot tropes is when they’re doing an activity while in the bath. Idk if it’s a trope exactly, but I always think it makes an interesting shot.

[@protect_provide8031]

Great show, watched it with 3 generations of people, all loved it

[@eligil4629]

Very well put together video! Surprised you only have a small subscriber count, you review was very thorough and professional.

[@MsRosenresli]

Nice review! I'm a bit disappointed that you didn't mention Moses Ingram's portrayal of Jolene. I think she's brilliant too, and her role is pivotal in bringing out Beth's personality.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks Cora! Yes huge apologies, I forgot to include Moses Ingram, Isla Johnston and Marielle Heller in the video. They all delivered fantastic performances in their respective characters!

[@pogchamp2675]

i’m absolutely OBSESSED with this show i love it so much

[@neilwilson5785]

This is one of the best descriptions of the show. Nice job.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks so much!

[@crusaderb.1901]

I enjoyed your intro as I started playing around 9 and played all through High School and then off and on. Until recently I play occasionally with friends and nephews. This movie definitely wetted my apatite to play again and more often.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Haha tell me about it!

[@Tiaslin]

Well, to leave a quick note to your question at the end... For me, the most impressive aspect of the show was the variety in cinematography and "film"-making. We often see gifted directors who are known masters of utilizing specific techniques or formulas, like for example, how Guy Ritchie is an exceptional visual story teller through montages. In the case of Queen's Gambit, Scott Frank pretty much used the whole palette of cinematography, and uses it perfectly depending on tone, weight and flow of the scenes. That combined with the wide spectrum of Taylor-Joys acting performance makes this show almost THE showcase of modern cinematic story telling. This show spent a lot of time on my "watch later" list until I finally sat down to watch it, and I couldn't have been more surprised and impressed by what I saw. Absolutely loved it, this is a master piece.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Very well said!

[@seasonschange6553]

Very well-done audio-video review. I've watched the miniseries now three times and each time see things I missed the first time. For instance, when Beth steals the chess magazine from the neighborhood convenience store, note the cover photo. It is of Benny.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you so much. I’m yet to rewatch the series but I will definitely be looking out for small details like that!

[@danielwardley4185]

thanks for the review, and breaking down a few aspects of filmmaking, and the characters. I chanced the first episode after I finished watching The Crown, which, was an amazing series in its own rite, but The Queen's Gambit had me captivated from the opening scene. absolutely fell in love with Beth and her journey, the era, the score, and costumes. and the final scenes were just perfect. the magic of story telling through a camera lens. Brilliant. hope you enjoyed BB !

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you for watching man! Yes, this show was something so unexpected but something so special! And haha yes, I loved BB so much. Looking forward to watching Better Call Saul!

[@kerryfry1857]

Well presented and I really appreciate the time you've put into this review. The best series I've ever seen. A brilliancy in chess terms. I want more... But not sure. It's a case of why break the spell. Because it's so enchanting.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks man- I appreciate the kind words!

[@kerryfry1857]

You're welcome. Quality shines through. You'll go far.

[@headfime]

If you want more, read the book by Walter Tevis. It's basically the same story, but also brilliantly written (in my amateur opinion).

[@loper42]

Great video. You've earned a sub. Also, on another front the Queen's Gambit is 100% one of the best shows I've watched in 2020 if not the best. It grabbed me from the first episode and it honestly has nothing I disliked. A brilliant story.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks so much! Personally, I don't think it is 100% perfect but like yous said, its story, its characters, it's direction all hooked me from the very first episode! Definitely one of the best of 2020 for sure!

[@Jimserac]

Agree completely, genius idea perfectly done, highest accolades to producers, directors, special effects, actors. This production has special meaning for me because at about the same time as the time period in the series, I was a strong chess player playing in tournaments in my high school years and early college years from about 1963 to 1974. In addition, just as with Harmon, I took Russian in high school for 3 years so I could read the Russian chess magazines and books. I was a regular at the old Providence Chess club in an ancient 1890's building on Aborn St., long since gone. It was tremendous fun with the wonderful memories of a misspent, but fun, youth. The series captures everything, the economy and culture of the times, the cars and buses, the city and the high school scenes, as well as the tragic poignancy of Elizabeth's personal situation and addictions.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

That’s such a fascinating story, thanks a lot for sharing. I’m happy you resonated with the show so much!

[@jahnghalt3864]

Have you "read Dostoyevski in the original??"

[@Jimserac]

@@jahnghalt3864 No. I was a big fan of his "Notes from the Underground" when i was young and wanted to read it in Russian but never got to it. In Russian I read mainly Captain's Daughter, Queen of Spades and the like as it was required reading. I did like Lermonotov's "Hero of Our Times" with its almost wild west atmosphere of the Caucuses region. Curiously, a recent DNA test indicates I have some ancestry from that region though the majority of it is from Italy and the Greek Island. I did like Russian poetry and read a good deal of it in Russian but its so long ago I've forgotten many of the names. Sergei Esinin comes to mind, he, like those of his era, was very intense. As I was a chess player in that era, I followed the hypermodern fad of the 1920's closely and then connected up that with the post world war l culture and art. It was a curious country in those days, the majority of it agrarian but the cities had the most intellectual and brilliant scientists, artists and writers. What a shame it was all destroyed by Stalin, that sociopathic murderer, in the early 1930's, a decision which nearly lost the country for him 10 years later.

[@jahnghalt3864]

@@Jimserac Required reading - one supposes that's essential for serious study of Russian Literature (not so much for conversant Russian). So interesting to see Imperial Russia through literature and 1920's Russian through chess. That dilettante who plied Beth with Budweiser and cannabis will never read any Russian "in the original". (in the novel, Beth got what she was looking for that weekend: "she was no longer a virgin; and she knew how to drink") Stalin made a "grave" error when he murdered his generals - made up for by the graves of millions of soldiers vs. Hitler. Walter Tevis and Scot Frank did well to only nod to the greater Soviet machine. They gave a suitable focus to the players. All "chess nations" would have done well to team up for the big events pre-1991.

[@Jimserac]

@@jahnghalt3864 For a feeling of Imperial Russia, its culture, aristocracy and elitism, study the hordes of Russian emigre's who ended up in Paris in the 1920's. Many later came to America. The writer Vladimir Nabokov is a good example and, as an extra added bonus, he wrote a novel about a chess grandmaster, "The Defense". Alekhin himself was quite characteristic of this group, his father was quite wealthy although by the time the 1920's had come he was a penniless expatriate. He did mention that they allowed him to keep a gold medal awarded to. him in some pre revolutionary tournament, by the Czar. Search for videos. and audios of Alekhin speaking on KZbin. It's absolutely hilarious - he sounds like a character from an Erich von Stroheim movie with that accent but still you can sense the speech of a very well educated person. In one video someone plays the Budapest defense against him and the look of disdainful contempt on Alekhin's face is priceless.

[@cswalker21]

Honestly, I hate chess. It bores me to tears and I never got into it. But The Queen's Gambit is still one of the best things I've ever watched on television. It is just brilliant in every detail. So just in case anyone's wondering, you don't have to be a competitive chess player to enjoy this show. I can only imagine it would even be more captivating to a someone with an actual connection to the game.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Glad you enjoyed it as much as you did! If I'm being completely honest, having a connection to chess might enhance a few scenes but I doubt many. It's the characters, the story and the way it's helmed that makes what seems inaccessible to a lot of people, completely transporting.

[@cswalker21]

@@ThePopcornPodcast Excellent point. And I neglected to mention, but your review was also exquisite. Nice work!

[@28stabwounds92]

another thing i loved about this show is that there is no real antagonist. i guess u could classify borgov as the main villain but in my opinion he isnt really. he is even happy for beth when she beats him in the final chess game of the show. the main villain is beth herself and her addictions. she is self destructing while everyone around her is trying to help her. truly beautiful show.

[@dennis300cr]

Very well done your layers of analysis of the movie was excellent! Was told to watch this movie but very busy during Holidays! So I just recently watched Anya Taylor-Joy in The Queen's Gambit and was mesmerized, enthralled, captivated by all aspects of this movie especially ATJ's excellent acting ability enhanced by her beauty with those awesome eye's, but also giddy and I even got misty eyed! So this movie accomplished everything that I haven't experienced in years! She's honestly the most talented and smartest former Model to become an actor that I can recall!

[@johnwatson4080]

Good job Dylan. It was, by far, the best thing I've seen in a long time. Just an excellent post.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

I really appreciate that man, thanks a lot.

[@walterfoster2582]

Best show I have seen in years. Fully agree with your review!

[@survivor536]

Every year there seems to come one great show that seems to top everything else being telecasted…but when this Netflix series came on I was completely blown away by the mini series. This was an extraordinary show that only happens once in a decade. I agree with your opinions in regards to this show. The acting, the music, the direction, the set design and everything else in the overall filming was , if I may use that word, Brilliant!!!

[@protect_provide8031]

Honeslty a perfect show, there wasnt a bad actor, from supporting characters to minor character's i wanted more. From her friend at orphanage i thought of each episode until her return in finale, Loved her step mom, even her step father, everyone did a knock out performance.. Almost gave me early seasons of game of thrones when those background characters made you want to see more of

[@josephpelzel3144]

Probably seen the video over 20 times. It reminds me of when I was playing chess in college. The international house great hall was loaded with great players playing speed chess. This included Walter brown US champion.

[@lockleaze]

I was surprise that there was no mention here about the sixties songs and tunes played in the series. As a teenager of the sixties they brought back memories of that period. Like, Classical Gas, Venus, You’re The One, I’m not your Stepping Stone, Yeh, Yeh, Better Stop Crying, etc..which I thought were excellent choices for the mood of the film.

[@drvelocio]

Having watched this series several times now, I can hardly argue with all the plaudits that have been heaped upon it: acting, cinematography, music, sets--all brilliant. One thing that I especially like is the casting in "minor" roles. From the "State Department" guy who accompanies Beth to Moscow, to the priest at Mr. Shaibel's service, to the brilliantly-portrayed Mrs. Deardorff, and of course Ferguson. Wonderful acting, all of you.The English teacher who reads poetry, and so on. And of course Borgov. Hardly a minor role, but he doesn't speak much, until the end. (I will look for other films with Dorociński (sp?).)

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you for your comment. That was brilliantly summarised and I'm glad you gave recognition to some of the smaller but nonetheless crucial aspects fo the show!

[@jahnghalt3864]

Very interesting that the Borgov actor is a Pole! The agent was clearly used to skeptical treatment by those he (literally) guarded - but not likely from a 20-year-old woman. He understood far better than most of us how hostile the regime was back then. She did well to "obey" (except at the end, of course). The State Dept. was so lacking in priority and perspective - not even nominally supporting Harmon's travel/lodging costs (unlike the Lexington rag that supported Townes). Imagine if she had declined to go?

[@jeffrussell4728]

Arguably the best thing that's ever been on Netflix.

[@Don.S53]

Of all the introspection videos of The Queens Gambit, yours was the Most Well Done. "Bravo Sir"

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks so much! Glad you liked it!

[@Gotyapaco]

This video is equally brilliant. Exceptionally well edited. Bravo.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks so much man!

[@AntonDaniels]

Impressive review my friend. I loved the well thought out content here. I'm sure you'll do well on the channel. Keep it up.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you so much man, really appreciate your kind words!

[@andrewsawicki6586]

Dude your the Queen's Gambit of movie reviewers I really like the pacing of your video. I like your astonishment in your voice when describing the Queen's Gambit. That's my take away as well. QG isn't a hidden gem, its a diamond in a tin box buried alongside a stone wall under a black shiney rock that has no earthly business being there! Good clip. Keep them coming.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Well this comment certainly made my day. Thanks so much man!

[@MsClaudiaDuran]

The Queen's Gambit has imprinted itself into my soul. Everything about it, from the score to the cinematography to the actors' performances, speaks a language to something inside me that I didn't know was there. I finished the last episode, and I felt sad and empty somehow. Anya Taylor-Joy is simply regal. I look at her and I feel something akin to love. Consciously, I understand this is all fiction, that it's nothing more than a great story told exceptionally through a visual medium. Subconsciously, I'm in love and I can't let go.

[@maileep7143]

I loved how you tied up the three themes at the end. Makes sense. It is inspiring. Bravo.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you! 😄

[@maikusch]

you can be emotional ... as a man i cried so hard in the end scene because is so amazing and positive.

[@gerdakrivaite5178]

Great video, thanks for sharing your thoughts! I absolutely loved the Queen's Gambit, Beth Harmon is a phenomenal character. The show inspired me to learn chess, which I've wanted to do for some time now :) As a Lithuanian, I also loved the little nods to my country throughout the series (Vladas Mikėnas, a Lithuanian chess player and Grandmaster, was mentioned when Beth was practicing chess with Beltik, and the memorable old man who is ready to play chess with Beth in the final shots is Juozas Budraitis, a Lithuanian actor). Definitely one of my favourite tv shows ever.

[@TheSlandis]

Definitely my favorite show of the year and, probably among my all-time favorites. I grew up in the 60s and 70s and could really appreciate the feel of the movie; they nailed it. Anya Taylor-Joy was brilliant, but there wasn't a weak performance in the entire cast. Two that you failed to highlight were Marielle Heller and newcomer Moses Ingram. I love the fact that all the games were real games from history, and some even modified to be better. The second time watching it was just as enjoyable as the first and, I'm sure, I will watch it again.

[@brandonwallach2821]

With the way movies have fallen into the gutter I was really happy to find a very, very good series. I used to play a lot of chess so I thought I'd give this show a try and am really glad I did. It was really a good show. I don't know if they could do a second season and am not sure I'd like to see it done because they had a book to go by and when shows try go outside they tend to screw things up. But there was a lot of talent with the making of this film so who knows? I do wish it was longer ....

[@HoTaiBodhi]

A brilliant series! Anya Taylor-Joy devpurs this role. I fell in love with her by the third episode, and I've been plugging the show to all my friends.

[@tonekenny5225]

Excellent review. I'm not for adding a sequel to this beautifully concluded story. However, I am open to the idea of adding additional situations into the time frame in which the original story takes place.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks man, and that’s understandable! Only time will tell.

[@rr3satrijoe397]

Nicely put together analysis/review. Well done!

[@thomasthobaben8801]

I'm watching the Queens Gambit for the third time and love it more each time. I just bought a new chess board again. I use to play chess when I was a kid. Then life took over. Got a job got married twice and now 70 years old. I was stunned and wonder if there was life after retirement, then I saw the Queens Gambit.

[@deffunc]

Credit must go to the source material, the novel by Walter Tevis. The character and story are all drawn directly from there, at least 95% of the book, which is the advantage of the limited series format that gave them the time to include most of the book, unlike a much shorter movie. The screen writers did a brilliant adaptation of a fantastic novel. Most of the dialogue is taken verbatim from the book. The clever way they used supporting characters and the radio reporters to speak exposition directly from the novel. They also made some masterful additions. Firstly, everything about Beth's dead mother and Beth's backstory is new. Secondly, the creation of Matt and Mike, who are unnamed characters in the book that only appear at the Beth's first tournament. By adding them as friends that Beth encounters again and again, the script cleverly uses them to explain more of the chess world (again, their dialogue is mostly verbatim from the text) and also when Beth speaks with them, she verbalises what were her unspoken thoughts in the book.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

I haven’t read the novel from WT but from what you’re telling me, it’s worth a read! Thank you so much for your insightful comment.

[@deffunc]

@@ThePopcornPodcast It's my pleasure. The few parts of the novel left out are mostly simplifications, or translating long prose into sumptuous visuals or skilled physical acting. Nothing left out impacts on the story or character development. I agree with the omission of the few scenes that would have been too explicit or unpleasant to film.

[@marvingold3078]

I have enjoyed it immensely and keep going back to watch some of my favorite segments. Though Isla Johnston does a great job in the opening of the series, I was a little disappointed that there is zero resemblance between her and Beth who first appears in the second segment. Perhaps this was unavoidable but couldn’t the makeup artists have done a little better? Another thing that I have puzzled over is the relationship between Beth and Townes. It is clear that she has desires for Townes and is frustrated when, for example, they are interrupted by Townes’s roommate when they are alone in his room. The final piece of the puzzle to me is the last segment when Townes is in her room in a t-shirt and wakes her from a deep sleep. It is hard to avoid the implication that he has slept with her.

[@seasonschange6553]

I interpreted it differently. When Townes awakens Beth to give her coffee, she appears to have slept in her clothes. He comments that she slept soundly. Earlier in the evening, when he had speculated out loud that the Russians likely had no objection to him coming to see her because they probably thought that he would "distract" her, she had replied, "If they only knew," implying that such distraction was unlikely, given his past involvement with men. They then proceeded to talk obliquely about that attraction, which he admitted was complicated by his attraction to her. Could one interpret that scene to mean that they slept together? Yes. But I think the more likely interpretation is no, but that he wanted to repair the friendship that had been painfully torn asunder when his "roommate" interrupted them in her hotel room at the previous competition. He wanted to support her in the USSR during what would be the key game of her life. This interpretation is bolstered by his arranging the group phone call with her past opponents, two of whom were also her past lovers. But I agree that which of the two possible interpretations is correct is unclear.

[@MsClaudiaDuran]

I think they did sleep together. Literally. The way a girl falls asleep in the same bed with her gay best friend.

[@kenvo343]

One of the best reviews in KZbin. I finished The Queen's Gambit in one day 2 weekends ago. One of the best TV series ever, for me. I was hooked from the beginning to the end. Completely destroyed at the end of the last episode. Basically, NO MORE???

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Haha thanks so much man! I finished it in one sitting too. I’m not too sure if a second season is on the cards or not but only time will tell...

[@jmann2977]

Enjoyed this review very much. The Queen's Gambit is the best series I've watched in a while, great on so many levels and worthy of all the accolades it has been getting. Though I'd be tempted with a second season, I'm afraid they wouldn't be able to match the brilliance of the first, and it might damage it's legacy. *You deserve more than 243 subscribers - make that 244 :)

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Haha only time will tell whether or not a second season would be on the cards! Thanks a lot man, I appreciate the kind words!

[@1bigdill]

Great job! Thoughtful analysis and strong vocal presentation. Your love of film and writing comes through. I have subscribed and will be watching more. Keep up the great work! Thank you!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you so much, I really appreciate the support!

[@danielstewart8106]

I thought it was interesting that Beth was orphaned twice and that both her biological and adoptive fathers abandoned her. Also, Brits rarely do convincing American accents, yet there are three of them in this series. Yes, I know that Anya was originally not from England, but she does have an English accent.

[@ThePutnampunk]

I loved the Queens Gambit. Its has to be the top 10 movies or series I’ve ever seen, and I’m 61 years old. I’ve watched it 3 times.

[@boazchapman2353]

Damn you deserve way more than 200 subs

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

That’s very kind of you to say!

[@Mrtigi67]

Best miniseries in years. Anya Taylor Joy is magnificent! I watched it four times in two weeks lol! I rarely watch anything more than once. I do NOT want a second season though...it’s perfect as it is

[@robertoneill1979]

I agree with everything you say here... except for the closing handheld shots which induced a feeling of motion sickness I've never experienced before in my 53 years. It was the weirdest feeling.

[@piper_lori-williams-tudhope]

Excellent video! ❤️

[@Superlogie]

One of the best show I ever watched and this is definitely one of the best video essays I have ever wachted!

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks so much!

[@elcamino2572]

When I finished this video,I was thinking: " this was a very well made video,who is this guy?" Let's check his channel out" And I saw how many subscribers you have. LESS THAN 1000? WTF? How? I don't know,but I'm subscribed.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Ah that’s super kind of you man. Hope to continue making good content for you!

[@peterpehlivan157]

Excellent video! Your channel so far is very underrated.

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks man, I appreciate that!

[@tommegg8486]

Well put essay! I was left empty after the credit rolls but this kind of video really fill that void

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thanks a lot!

[@hellohellocalling]

Fantastic video! Loved the series and loved this analysis :)

[@ThePopcornPodcast]

Thank you!