The Queen's Gambit Analysis | the undefinable Beth Harmon

I recently watched Netflix's chess drama The Queen's Gambit, starring Anya Taylor-Joy. However is it more than just a chess drama? I loved the show and thought I'd make this little video essay on it. Half an analysis of the show and Beth Harmon, half a general review about the stuff I liked from it.
My Little Thought Tree is my channel for drawing out the deeper meaning and emotion in film, TV, and the world at large through relaxed, analytical video essays. I am a professional counsellor and often draw on my psychology and therapy background to better understand characters, themes, and emotion in fiction. I upload every Saturday and occasionally on Tuesdays, if I'm feeling productive.
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Music: All OST of The Queen's Gambit
Beth's Story
Beth Alone
Sygrayem
Training With Benny
Playing Townes
Returning To Methuen
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#queensgambit #analysis #anyataylorjoy

[@adminanar]

I found that in the ending match, She learned that she doesn't need to fight alone and her ability is not from the pill.

[@jdaddytv3247]

I thought there would be people complaining because everyone who helped her in the end was a man

[@BreezusSneezus]

@@jdaddytv3247 nope, seems like you're actually one of the few who even noticed...

[@yvonneshanson1525]

@@jdaddytv3247 actually most helpful ones were women so.. go mansplain somewhere else .?.

[@jdaddytv3247]

@@yvonneshanson1525 you completely missed the point 😂 but go off

[@radioactive.rabbit]

Obviously

[@calebee4205]

I think she abused drugs and alcohol to shut out the trauma and this is how she was able to focus on chess. The drugs never gave her the ability they just cleared her head. The ending is so powerful because she was able to face her trauma and connect with the people who cared about her, and that’s how she won.

[@dinodino5602]

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[@alexfraze12087]

I agree, completely. Sufferers of childhood, and especially early childhood trauma, also have severe anxiety, depression, ECT. The tranquilizers could have relieved those issues temporarily.

[@KnuckleHunkybuck]

HOW IS IT POSSIBLE THAT DURING MY ORIGINAL VIEWING OF THE QUEEN'S GAMBIT DID I NOT NOTICE THAT AT THE END, SHE'S WEARING A LITTLE WHITE OUTFIT WITH A LITTLE HEXAGONAL HAT WITH A POOF ON TOP LIKE SHE'S A CHESS QUEEN?!

[@mylittlethoughttree]

And neither did I till you pointed it out 😅

[@rolandcooke]

There's whole videos on the costume design..... in the orphanage she's dressed as a pawn - it's not a coincidence. :)

[@xzonia1]

I watched another video on this show that nailed it for me, why I enjoyed this so much. Beth moves through the world as men do, but is never punished for it the way women usually are. She isn't forced to only play other girls when she starts out; she can play against boys her age, and soon men. She explores her sexuality without being shamed for it. She drinks heavily. She does drugs. She becomes the bread winner when the adopted dad walks out, taking care of her new mom and herself. She swears. She is competitive and she wins, and no one ever shames her for it. They congratulate her. She owns property (which was still a recent achievement in the 60's; there were states in the US where women still couldn't own a home in that decade) and it's never marveled upon; it's just accepted. She is focused on her own turmoil, and never admonished for not considering others' feelings. She feels guilty for not visiting the man who helped her start out, but no one ever says she failed at being a girl for not putting his needs above her own and thanking him profusely for even giving her a chance. Her behavior is simply accepted. Basically, she's treated as an equal, something we almost never see in daily life or in movies / TV / anywhere. Yet she is clearly a woman. No one ever accuses her of acting like a man, being untrue to her gender. Even the reporter approaches her more like an orphan looking to fill the hole of not having a family, rather than a girl stepping out from her traditional role in life and "trying to be a man". This show is satisfying because she can be totally normal and true to herself, as men are allowed to be, and it is accepted. I wish more shows were like this. I wish life were like this.

[@dinodino5602]

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[@gracechan3039]

I think the reason shes accepted is because shes an orphan and she has talent. She was dismissed at the first tournament for being a female chess player but she doesnt care for the organisers dismissal. After losing your parents, shame from strangers is not a thing that even registers. Among the chess players she is accepted because talent recognises talent. I've had a similar-ish experience of being the only girl entering a computer games tournament. Being dismissed as a girl at the beginning but with my talent, gaining the respect of my competitors. The dismissal didnt phase me because I believed I could win. When I did win, the crowd cheered because they were excited to see something they had never seen before. A girl beating all the boys. They viewed me as the underdog because I was a girl and everyone roots for the underdog. If they just saw me as a talented player and took gender out of it, I'm sure they wouldnt have cheered as much.

[@sleepingdogpro]

I've argued (and will continue to) that we as women NEED stories exactly like this. It's okay to be inspired and to have fun with a story, we don't need to be reminded all the time that the "real world" will punish us for trying things. Fuck that anyway. The more stories we see that allow women to be treated as equals, the more we're all able to walk into rooms of our own and demand the same thing, because we're all more able to see how it's even possible.

[@tanler7953]

@xylene I think most people who drink, do drugs or swear excessively would be considered failures, whether they be men or women. Many men face all kinds of problems with sexuality. It's mostly in movies that we find this idealized version of men or we can say that the "men" you are comparing Beth to are part of a dominant elite. They don't represent the average man.

[@Noway022]

I see your point but I think that’s why the show kinda fell flat for me. I don’t necessarely enjoy stories that lean heavily on women suffering because yeah, we get it, it’s hard to be a woman, I don’t want to spend time feeling miserable about it. This being said the Queen’s Gambit felt a bit superficial to me in terms of sexism, racism, drug abuse... it seemed like it was written by someone who had no experience with those things. In my eye the result was a shallow ”we want a cool female protagonist who goes against the grain in an era that wasn’t kind to women, but we don’t really want to tackle any of the issues she faces”. It’s fine but... I can’t relate to being a genius and having men politely and rationally recognize my value as soon as it’s proven. You can’t have the veneer of girl power and not incorporate patriarchy in any meaningful way. Imo the Queen’s Gambit is a gorgeous show that doesn’t have much to say.

[@claugh7493]

My favorite line from the show that really defined Beth's character in my mind was "When I play chess, I feel like I'm in control".

[@BryanO92]

You hit it on the head I think. The whole thing is about her journey from a broken, childish, transactional existence (note chess itself is a metaphor for transactionalism, with its incessant trading of pieces) to the realization that life is nothing like a game of chess and that she's gained nothing from living as if the object is to get more than you give.

[@Hildervinge]

The show is about a women and men are not villanized, which is rare honestly. The men are kind, supports her and validates her, and I think that was part of why it was good. Some pointed out it was unrealistic, but a lot of men I know is like this and it was really nice seeing it portraid. I think women felt empowered by it, and I think men really enjoyed the narrative that she healed and overcome her demons because of the goodness of the men in her life 😊 also, loved your take on it.

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Agreed. I think the most empowering thing is when someone is able to reach their achievements without a big deal having to made of how she's a woman, or whatever the example might be about. That would've reduced Beth down to "the woman" rather than being her own unique person, and it would be unintentionally suggesting "women don't succeed in a man's world, look how uncommon this is! Beth is so rare!" Whereas instead it's more relaxed. It doesn't ignore the point, but it doesn't make a huge deal out of it, which cements it more as a natural thing. I've always thought the most empowering characters are the ones who achieve without having to be made into spokespeople, but just as their natural, ordinary selves.

[@davidkonevky7372]

I really hope we can continue that trend, as someone who's normally not interested in these feminist movies, the queen's gambit was able to send such a beautiful feminist message without bringing men down. It really made me feel empathetic towards Beth, because she sees herself as an equal to her male peers, not superior, nor inferior.

[@jaredjones1752]

@@davidkonevky7372 Even though it was only one 5-second line of dialogue in a 10-hour series, I appreciated how in the final episode Beth mentions that she spends 8 hours a day studying chess. I hate when these movies act like prodigies can become successful without doing any work (no wonder so many real-life prodigies fail when they reach adulthood if that's the message movies send them as kids). Even geniuses like Beth have to work very hard at what they're "gifted" at, or else they will have nothing.

[@Suho1004]

I think it's important to point out that the story does not end with Beth on top. The tournament in Moscow is not the world championship, it is just an invitational--she will still have to play a 24-game match against Borgov to claim the world champion title, and that is far from a sure thing. This is mentioned in the book, but Beth puts that out of her mind, wanting to just savor her current victory, as she should. I would recommend the book if you liked the series. I was surprised to see how much the series departs from the book in certain aspects. For me, I think the difference in the way the book and the series handled Beth's addictions was the most significant. After reading the book, I realized that her alcoholism in the series is heavily romanticized, and her relationship to the pills is completely different as well (she only uses the pills to get to sleep, and she deliberately avoids them when she needs to concentrate on chess, because of course she does--tranquilizers do not give you a sharp mind!). I actually just posted a very long essay on my own website last night comparing the book and the series, so I could go on at great length, but I will spare you the details. Suffice it to say that the book will both give you a new appreciation for what the series achieves and perhaps shed a light on some areas where it falls short.

[@jeywithane130]

yesyesyess as always you pinned the point perfectly on the head! for me, one of the reasons queens gambit was so delightful was (apart from the fashion gosh i'm such a simpleton) the fact that you never knew where the plots were going. small beth arrives at her new adoptive family for the first time, you think the 'father' is gonna abuse her. but no. her new mother is suddenly paying attention to her chess bc it makes money, so you think she's gonna exploit her, but no. beth begins buying more stuff as she has more money and you think she's going to end up completely broke and homeless, but no. queens gambit doesn't really follow the traditional routes of plots, and the same goes for who beth is. she isn't just a genius "but at what price". she's not just obsessed with chess. she's not just this or that. she's just human. and the plots are human. and that makes the whole show so ... idk. comfortable? like you're ready to feel with the people on screen bc theyre not just saying "this character symbolises this part of her life so he must fulfill this role to make you feel this emotion".

[@Enderception]

When I finished the show I felt like it had just opened plot hooks and then left them hanging. I didn't really think of it as a positive thing but this is a really interesting way of looking at it.

[@davidkonevky7372]

You nailed it right on the head, the plot felt so natural and realistic because the world itself is very unpredictable.

[@thinkingpsych4967]

It has everything a psychiatrist could ask for, genius, madness, addiction, a crazy mom, and turning tragedy into triumph by using one's brain. Beautiful.

[@Cyssane]

I've read the book and also a couple of interviews with the book's author. He mentioned that it was loosely based on the early life of Bobby Fischer, an American chess champion, but that he wanted the story to deviate somewhat from Fischer's life, and since he didn't want anyone to mistake the novel's protagonist for any specific chess champion, he decided to make her a girl. He also stated that he wanted to explore what genius is like and how it might develop in a female mind. (Notice that although Beth succeeds in a man's world with what's considered a man's game, she's still interested in typically female pursuits such as fashionable clothing, makeup, etc... she doesn't try to act like the male players around her.) Others have pointed out that Beth Harmon's attitude and hyper-focus on a cerebral game like chess (and her general awkwardness and discomfort with human relationships) seems to put her somewhere on the autism spectrum. It's her discomfort with human relationships and her perception of her rivals that she has to overcome in order to finally succeed.

[@verlaharmston9277]

I have known and worked with children who might be considered genius. While their grasp of intellectual materials is far ahead of their classmates, they have trouble interacting with kids their age. It is almost as if they can not empathize with others and interacting with those who are emotional is totally foreign to them. They tend to be more literal as well, not understanding sarcasm. For this reason, they have trouble having close relationships and find socializing boring. If you were not aware of their genius, one might think they had some form of Asperger's or a social disorder. I have often wondered if they are so bright how they can not diagnose how to be more socially acceptable and outgoing which is lacking naturally. I am assuming that is not important to them.

[@Cyssane]

@@verlaharmston9277 I wouldn't assume they have no empathy. My husband's a literal genius and he has many of these same tendencies himself (except for not understanding sarcasm -- he's hilariously snarky in fact, but he doesn't often show it to others because it can easily be taken the wrong way). He's also one of the sweetest guys I've ever met and always thinks of others before himself. It's just not immediately obvious from his demeanour. He also often appears to not understand sarcasm, when in reality he's understood it just fine. He just sees through it right away and mentally jumps ahead in the conversation, reacting to the intent or to the context while everyone else is still reacting to the remark itself. It takes others a few minutes to catch up, so to them it comes off as him "not getting it". More likely it's that these kids simply find socializing tedious and anxiety-inducing, similar to how introverts feel when they're forced into social events with extroverts. It's exhausting with no obvious immediate benefit, not to mention it makes them feel fake -- and let's face it, kids can be brutal little bullies to people who are different from them. Genius kids may have just weighed up the risks vs. benefits and made the choice to opt out of the entire social scene.

[@verlaharmston9277]

@@Cyssane My husband was a member of Mensa and I have a grandson who skipped 2 grades. In addition, I was a science teacher and have had 3 or 4 students who were in talented/gifted and actually began taking HS classes in Middle School and college classes in HS. I am talking from my observations. My husband went to social functions but talked about how dumb they were incessantly afterwards. Neither he nor my grandson would ever seek people out. We met in HS when I add trouble opening my locker all the time. As for my students, our school had a strict no bullying policy and they seemed, in science, to be accepted and worked as a team. When asked to socialize outside of the classroom they declined, which maybe was a good thing because to the person, they seemed lacking in common sense and could easily have gotten into trouble because of their gullible nature. None of this is as simple as you and I describe it. EVERY person is different. But we both have had experiences with and have developed perspectives from those experiences. BTW, my husband may have had 158 IQ but I had the grades and he flunked several classes and even out of college a couple of times. School was so easy he had a difficult time studying and absolutely could not memorize anything.

[@Cyssane]

@@verlaharmston9277 You're right, everyone is different and none of it is simple, which is why generalities such as "these people seem to lack empathy" can be harmful as well as inaccurate.

[@verlaharmston9277]

@@Cyssane Who exactly is being harmed? This is not a medical journal, Facebook, or even outside this comment section. I am sorry that you are offended but I do have the right to say what I think. Besides, if you read what I said, I never said they did NOT have empathy, I said IT SEEMS that they don't and I stand by it. Your husband may be empathetic. Mine is not. When I cry he just stands there and stares. Kids at school feel bad about failed experiments and the "genius" students sit there with a blank expression on their face. I never claimed to be a psychologist or psychiatrist. I am saying what I have seen ACCORDING to MY opinion. Before you call me harmful and inaccurate, what are your credentials to tell me I am wrong? I suspect it is only your observations as are mine. I am as truthful as you are. Besides, do you know the modern definition of genius? It no longer applies to those whose IQ's are higher than normal. For that matter, the use of IQ as a measuring stick is being used less and less to evaluate students and people in general.

[@robertmatthews9650]

When you put together good characters, good story elements, a good script, with good acting you get a good movie. It’s really that simple sometimes.

[@thegrigouproduction7013]

But it’s not ‘that simple” to get all this

[@Ergoperidot]

@@thegrigouproduction7013 I think he means it can be boiled down to a science. Like most art.

[@robertmatthews9650]

@@Ergoperidot Yes that what I was referring to.

[@thegrigouproduction7013]

@@Ergoperidot yeah but still it is hard

[@thegrigouproduction7013]

@@robertmatthews9650 k

[@malinm1615]

What I noticed is that in the end, when the men playing chess on the street in Russia, they called her "Liza Harmon", and she didn't seem to mind, contrary to the other instances in the series where people called her different things. Maybe she realizes that it doesn't matter what people call her, as long as they recognize her for who she is and respect her as her own person. Perhaps she has just grown secure enough to not care what people call her, because she knows, who she is. It was a small detail, but very noticeable for me, as it took me quite some time to come to like my own name and stand above people using it to tease me (I am not referring to the name I use on KZbin, obviously). I always hated abbreviations of my name but have now realized, that it really doesn't matter. The people that respect me do so regardless of what they call me. Also, I got a Queens Gambit add on this video. Good job, KZbin xD

[@NoWay-vp6ns]

I think that's interesting and also in Russia nick names are different, they are "official". If you're called Alexandra for exemple no one will call u that but everyone will call you Sacha . And same with, Natalia and Natasha or Elizabeth and Liza. They don't really have the same role that in others cultures. So maybe that's also why she didn't care ?¿

[@katerrinah5442]

I felt this video in my soul. I spent my whole life planning my career as a nurse. Then when I got to uni I got seriously ill and had to abandon that plan. I'm not a part time cleaner and happier than I ever thought I could be. I'm really glad it didn't show Beth having a diffinitive ending of "this was the rest of her life". She achieved what she wanted but that wasn't all she was. Life is so unexpected and you can plan to Acheive something for so long, and may or may not actually get there. And that's ok, goals aren't always achieved and that doesn't mean you're a failure.

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Beautifully put, thankyou 😊

[@wwaxwork]

It's touched on, her mother, during one of her manic turns tells her "not to trust anyone". So Beth just tries to get by as well as she can alone, yet being alone, ie losing her second mother figure, sends her to drink. It also makes the talk of her going mad a little darker as it's implied her mother tried to kill them both in the car crash.

[@coach6250]

Beth didn't realize that her mother was trying to kill her when she drove into the truck until she had the final flashback in Russia.

[@MsClaudiaDuran]

I'm glad you mentioned "the sex" motif in TQG. Let's face it. Most sex scenes in movies/TV are either trailer fodder or fan service. Not here. I think it's meant to let the viewer know that Beth isn't "made of stone". She's highly cerebral, but not 100%. She's more than a chess player. She's earthy, sensual, and yearns to get out of her head. In other words, she's so misunderstood, that even the viewers have her pegged all wrong.

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Bit of a more straight forward, simpler video essay than my usual ones today. Hope you still enjoy it. With a load of videos still stuck in copyright blocks, I think the next few releases will probably be rambling ones, as well. Patreon link - www.patreon.com/mylittlethoughttree​ Discord link - discord.gg/qAhPft9

[@hqbattery]

Patreon page gave me 404 error

[@Senyuno]

But what about the Psychology? I wanted more exploration of her family life, her father issue, her dependence, her distancing from everyone and how chess masters tend to isolate and depress, etc. I think you pointed out the discussion points, but never went into any detail or deeper analysis. It's not a bad thing, it's just what I like about your content.

[@frodobaby2360]

For me the show was about pursing a nerdy obsession and getting past limitations put on her. For example finding a way to get the chess set and that chess magazine. I completely identified with that relentless passion. I’ve never ever seen it portrayed on screen before. Exceptional.

[@zombelladonna]

Anya Taylor Joy is so talented. There’s this great interview where she talks about how she finished the book right before the audition for this part and she bursts into the directors office and says “it’s not about chess and she has to have red hair!”

[@alexfraze12087]

Beth watched her only parental figures spiral. She saw her own life spiral. I think this is truly a story of resilience, learning to deal with life's troubles via an escape, and learning to then use it as a healthy coping mechanism. I want to read the book, I feel that getting a peak into her mind would be the most interesting thing. I wonder what her internal reactions were, when she was very obviously aware of how she appeared in the later episodes.

[@szinyk]

You mentioned that you liked limited series... I'm not sure if you've seen it, but the Netflix miniseries "Maniac" (with Jonah Hill and Emma Stone) was excellent; dealing with loneliness, sadness, grief, and therapy (......well, sort of). It'd be interesting to see & hear your take on it.

[@davidkonevky7372]

I really hope people start to make more mini-series like this. The format is short enough that it lets the producers put care into each single episode, but long enough that it lets the director express the complexity of the character without rushing the pace or keeping details out too much.

[@gretaenglish3519]

I really loved this series for so many reasons and I think you covered them all. It was also exciting to see something original during the pandemic. When it ended, I was sad and rewatched it a couple times. I agree with you that having 8 episodes instead of 7 might have given more insight into the characters/relationships. I also wanted more screen time for Jolene. I loved her and loved their friendship. And yes, the physicality of Beth as she ages is brilliant. Another thing I noticed and really loved were Beth's embarrassed reactions to her mother (Alma's outburst about Manuel on the plane and when she is obviously trying to be flirty with the twins at one of Beth's earlier tournaments). Those moments were hilarious but so nuanced. And finally, I love that the backdrop of the series is chess, but it covers so many aspects of life.

[@carpevinum8645]

I felt it was about coping. Every life has stresses. They vary in kind and degree, but they are there for everyone. It explores many ways to cope, and the positive and negative consequences. And tandem to that, what will you prioritise, what are your actual desires.

[@carpevinum8645]

As grand as some settings are, her struggles and successes feel so real, so believable, so relatable. It isn't preachy. There is no feeling of a major message or agenda. It feels like a snap shot of a life. It is one of the most believable movie I have watched (even compared to biographical movies, as they are often extraordinary stories). I am neuro atypical, and I read neuroatypicality in her character, but again in a real natural way, not preachy, no point, it was a part of her but not the point of her character. Such a real story.

[@ankelbone]

Incredibly explained, as always! When I've told friends and family about the show and how great it is, they always inevitably ask, "what's it about?" (why wouldn't they), and I essentially condense it down to, "its about a girl whose love for chess carries her through life". But that condensation never does it justice by a long shot because, as you said, it's about that, but it's not, in just about every aspect of the show. It's just a life show which beautifully and effectively displays every intricacy of life. You very much captured that with great accuracy in your explanation. Again, beautifully done, as always!

[@Minahme-ob4kj]

It’s almost 3 am as I’m watching this and your voice almost put me to sleep. That’s a compliment btw you have a very soothing and comforting voice

[@ivanholguin164]

Never seen or even heard of the show but since I've discovered your channel I've always been enjoying your content and point of view on things so I decided to give your video a view, and I'm happy to say I didn't regret it. I now may check out the show to see how it is. I was originally was drawn to your channel because of the good will hunting videos, but while waiting for the remaining vids I did check out your other vids and really enjoyed them (no just the movie analysis but also your rambling thoughts). Anyway, great content, I love the channel, and keep it up with the videos. :)

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Thankyou! Kind of yoy to say 😊

[@judeannethecandorchannel2153]

I appreciate the way you validate a show being about many things, not one focus

[@rachyljean]

This was a beautiful character study. It made me cry. So thank you.

[@marywhistley]

Oh yes!!!! One of my favourite KZbin channels talks about one of my favourite series from last year which is about one of my favourite games 😊 I feel so privileged right now 😂

[@cherylkavanagh3387]

I enjoyed your thoughtful analysis of this series.

[@OlleJonasson-pr8lu]

Very good analysis. Thanks you.

[@gwenmorse8059]

Anya Taylor-Joy is a very good actress and if you liked this series you might enjoy her earlier roles in the movies "The Witch" and "Split". She seems to lean into heavily psychological roles.

[@sunlightrh3147]

I want to watch "Split" but I've read some things about it that says it's an unhealthy representation of DID? Is it?

[@gwenmorse8059]

@@sunlightrh3147 I don't know if it's "unhealthy" but it's supposed to be very inaccurate. It's a "What if" story" ... as in "What if being really messed up in some way could give you super powers?"

[@isahamilton01]

@@sunlightrh3147 of course it isn’t 100% accurate to real life, it’s an M Night Shyamalan film?? Whoever said that to you was being nit picky. Sounds like some standard Twitter user honestly. It’s a good movie, just enjoy it for what it is

[@sunlightrh3147]

@@isahamilton01 It actually came from my bestfriwnd and a youtube channel that tackles about DID. I'd still give it a shot though and then form my thoughts about it later on. Thank you for answering.

[@softsugarplumfairy498]

@@gwenmorse8059 even if its a "what if", its still really ablest and pushes horrible stereotypes about an already highly stigmatised disorder caused by repeated childhood trauma.

[@hqbattery]

Pleasant surprise to wake up and see MLT post a new video

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Every Saturday at 12ish uk time. Except last saturday, nevermind that though 😅

[@Isaac-se4cx]

I would love to hear a deep dive of the show as a study of an substance dependence / addiction, lent your background/perspective as a therapist. (I feel slightly pushy writing that, like I'm demanding more free content from a free content creator - please don't think that's the case!) Based on my slightly "binged" watch of the series several months ago, I got the impression it was a pretty realistic depiction of substance abuse. I remember calling my friend who hadn't seen the series, and describing scenes to him about how I found the show so unsettling due to my family history of substance abuse. As always, love your videos! They give me a very calm feeling, and I like to save them for days I am feeling anxious. Thank you for all your work!

[@gracechan3039]

I liked the fact that the story was so engrossing that I could watch it without analysing it. I could just enjoy it. But analysis is fun too so thanks for making this video.

[@spuriouseffect]

That was a perfect analysis.......of Beth's life.... and everyone's life.

[@SteelyDanUnofficial]

now i want to rewatch this show

[@monio.9444]

Glad you chose to talk about this 👏

[@_finsta.party._1188]

I started and finished it today and honestly, I never heard about it before (the novel or show) and being a non chess player or even knowing what anything chess related means It was exciting to watch, not only because of the angles of the cinematography but the plot was amazing, well executed

[@Roman7-]

Thank you for your review and analysis, i agree with everything you said. One of the rare tv show i enjoyed on netflix.

[@harleycooper7335]

Hey man, I really loved your breakfast videos and I would really love it if you did the janitor

[@lorettabes4553]

I watched 'Innocent moves' (Searching for Bobbie Fisher) yesterday. It reminded me of Queens Gambit, though it should be the other way around, hahaha. They both show a love of the game, where it's more than a game, it's their life. The feeling and framing is there. But I can't pin it down why I love it so much. It's so fascinating, I love it.

[@Senyuno]

If you loved the show and want to rewatch it, check out the novel. It's short, the author is very pointed, and you'll realize it's almost identical to the show. Almost like they were made for each other 🤣. They're complimentary. The series can show you how the characters, especially the external perspective. But the book can show you the internal one-- how unfair Beth is, not just to other people, but especially to herself, and how she goes through a deep internal change where she grows a sense of empathy. It's brilliant. But it's super fun because you gotta experience both, trust me, they are a fantastic pair!

[@RJ_Ehlert]

I am now putting this show on my to-watch list.

[@geekexmachina]

the length of the video was fine I think there is always many things to discuss but its important to keep focus. The series (and the book) is very layered and you can peel the onion almost forever. There are some interesting commonalities between Travis' books which can be seen here and in some of his film adaptations. Regarding the concentration of the episodes I feel it is about right as the series is like a chess game itself, the density and pacing is like the concentration and tension that a game creates so I feel its actually an important element. As a background the writer had a number of the issues in common with Beth so some of it is written from personal experience. The actors/resses are chosen really well those that im familiar with in the series are known to research their characters in depth and i think this also helps ground it in the eras it is set. For me It is like seeing through the Autistic lens in some respect and i think the effects aide this, it in pats id reminiscent of the film "x + y", and other ways the Amine series "Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso" (Your Lie in April). I like chess as a game (though I prefer Shogi which is exciting to watch) and in many ways this series brings out that aspect of the game which people may not see normally.

[@mr.octopie6199]

@MyLittleThoughtTree Ive been watching quite a few "Citchen Nightmares" by Gordon Ramsey, and I am pretty sure that Goredon is not doing the best thing to. But obviously I dont really know what im talking about, so Id like to see what you think. also about how it is all produced to make Gordon seem like the always good, all knowing citchen-god, and there always being one bad person, similare to Dr. Phil, as you ponted out. I hope to see a vido essay about it and keep up the good work! thank you for the vidoes you are putting out there.

[@claymccoy]

Speaking as someone who watched every episode of Kitchen Nightmares, Ramsey may seem "always good, all knowing" at first, but he doesn't walk in and say change this, get rid of this, do this, etc. He spends a good quarter of the show eating the food, examining the kitchen and cooling units, interviewing the owners and staff, etc. Then, he uses his expertise (he has multiple Michelin star restaurants and numerous years of experience) to tell them what they need to do to improve. The problem is, the owners/managers are in denial and don't think they are the problem when they are. They have this "no one tells me how to run my restaurant" attitude or can't take constructive criticism. And the shocking thing about it is in most cases, you don't need Ramsey to find out what is wrong with their restaurant. Hell, the staff can tell what is wrong and the owners are too stubborn or in denial to listen.

[@rweaver6]

With all due respect to your doubts, it is indeed clear what this show is about, in the end. Scott Frank defines it for us in his documentary. - it is not about chess, it's about Beth. And about her love of chess - To make sure that what you're really invested in is HER. - She discovers she just loves the game - She discovers that, despite conflict, her friends will not abandon her. Even her adversaries embrace her - the show ends in pure serenity and rejection of social status, in favor of socializing with normal people (chess players, of course, that's the life she's content with) - the final line is "Let's play". That's the answer to "what will you do with the rest of your life?"

[@michaelkennedy3522]

I made the mistake of reading the novel AFTER watching the series....twice, I loved it so much. Two takeaways....I wish the story would have been true and there would have been a real Beth Harmon who was that fascinating and oblivious to being a woman and just wanted to play and win. Being fascinated with her character was, I believe, 90 percent due to Anya's portrayal of her. She was absolutely incredible and deserves all the recognition she is getting. The second point is I couldn't read the book after seeing the series without visualizing ATJ in every page of the book. It seems ATJ melded herself completely into Beth. Can't wait for all her future films. This woman, definitely, has supreme talent and skill.

[@westsidebilling]

My favorite series of all time.

[@charliebeans3202]

Very interesting... i always enjoy these film/character/show analysis videos!! I don’t have Netflix so I haven’t watched the show, but I’ve heard a lot about it.

[@TheeGothixa]

I read the book and (minor spoiler alert) I'm so glad they didn't put Jolene sexually assaulting Beth In it. Also I wish in the books that Beth confronted her about it instead of them becoming friends again but oh well. It would've been so much better if Beth is reminded of being assaulted in some way (either by being assaulted again, having someone talk to her about assault, etc) and the Beth tracks down Jolene and confronts her.

[@Tiffany-fo1cw]

I think it's about her having an old soul, and no one else in the movie could relate to her. Also she had a point to prove to herself.

[@Magaxstar]

Man, I love your content. I found a Channel that you may enjoy. He does similar work to yours. It's called: The Meaning of NERD

[@fofinha007723]

Uhh, sounds interesting. Imma check it out too

[@marcellakilgarriff]

Beth isn't actually a world champion at the end of the show. She beats Borgov in an invitational, not a championship. So that could still be a goal for her to work towards. I love that the show kind of leaves the ending open, it allows for the viewer to think about the possible twists and turns her life could take.

[@jeffrussell4728]

The best thing on Netflix last year, nothing else was even close.

[@trinaq]

I love your analysis, as always! 😍 Beth is an amazing, spunky Heroine, despite all the trauma she's been dealt. I also liked the decision to have Beth remain single by the end, and not have the story centre on who she ends up with, but her recovery. ♟️♥️

[@KnuckleHunkybuck]

There are three words which summarize why The Queen's Gambit was as captivating as it was: Anya Taylor Joy

[@ekoi1995]

season 2 could have explained the the family background, but i guess we're not getting any of it : (

[@Majoofi]

It's about fashion and production design.

[@invitesbydani]

In my opinion, there's a strong likelihood that Beth could do modeling after chess. Her modeling friend, whatever her name was (I can't remember), that said she can't model because she's too smart is wrong. It parallels people saying that she couldn't play chess because she's beautiful and she's a woman. And I do believe that Beth would do modeling. And to burn another stereotype that models are dumb.

[@jacquelynmiller4714]

I'm so glad they didn't play into the stereotype that smart people find feminine, girly things too frivolous. Beth has a fabulous sense of style!

[@ChloeLalonde]

I absolutely love your videos

[@paullatta]

Check this actress out in the movie Thorobreds.

[@tfpp1]

Everyone always talks about her final outfit where she looks like a white chess queen. But nobody talks about her outfit when she first plays in Russia when she wears this black and white dress that resembles a chess board, too.

[@user-hk6yu5yf2w]

I highly suggest reading the book. The show is very similar, but less detailed in charcterisation

[@rachelbarr6712]

As an autistic woman, I saw Beth Harmon as undeniably autistic. She possesses many of the traits, and many of the struggles.

[@CindyWarren2004]

Ikr!

[@summerrose8110]

I love the whole show. I'm glad I watched it.

[@CindyWarren2004]

Gosh i love the exploring her sexuality part so much!!

[@Freezient]

Beth is not the world champion yet according to the book. She’s not the world champion in the series. The book says she’s going to pursue the world champion title next, so if there’s ever a sequel it’ll probably be about that. As for who she end up with, I like to think Benny, since its also part of her development, she got over her crush on Townes, says she misses and needed Benny

[@tmoon9297]

Can't believe she never sent him the $10 she promised to give.

[@genevievemorgan7821]

It is about chess and falling in love with chess.

[@OverthinkingConde]

Love the video. Only-You don’t beat an addiction. You live with it, and she’s in the path to do so.

[@tonichan89]

Ok but where is Claire? Is she okay?

[@aimlesslegs623]

In my headcannon she goes off to play chess with the ordinary people of Russia because she's defecting--but might end up becoming a democracy activist or double-agent in Russia Evidence: - CIA guy tells her to "watch Borgov for any messages he's trying to send". At the end of their match Borgov shook hands with her all comradely-like and she seems to be into that. - CIA guy is all like "you're gonna miss the plane!!!" and she gives no fucks - The old Russian chess guys remind me so much of Mr. Shaibel. Shaibel is a Ukrainian surname and is found mostly in Ukraine, but also in significant numbers in the U.S. and Russia (and not really anywhere else) - The show doesn't exactly look at 1950s America with rose-colored glasses, whereas it makes Russia look pretty sweet. - I thought there was a "Queen's Gambit" angle here, too, but unfortunately the Queen's Gambit does *not* involve sacrificing your queen, rip my knowledge of chess

[@veryvery2155]

YESSSS

[@gspaulsson]

It's set up in all kinds of ways for a sequel. She isn't world champion yet - the Moscow Invitational is just a tournament. And you don't hone a skill like that just to drop it short of the actual goal. What do you do when you become world champion? You defend it, and hope to become one of the greats. Besides, she lives a pretty luxurious life - expensive taste in clothes, even without the booze and the pills. What is she going to live on if she stops playing? Jolene had to lend her money to go to Moscow, so she's close to broke. Top US players live like Benny, in a basement. She says that there is nothing tying her to Kentucky.: she can sell the house, move to NYC, hang out at the Manhattan Chess Club (the best in the US) and prep for the Candidates tournament, which she has to win to have a shot at the championship. More plot twists to come - say Benny gets her pregnant, then gets drafted and has to go to Vietnam. Jolene becmes a radical - Beth barely touches the 60s. just that scene with the Russian classmates. The sequel ends with her finally winning the championship, after a hard struggle with life. Then she has to answer the question: what does she do with the rest of her life?

[@NatnatXS]

While I do like most of your videos, this seemed abit more like a review of the show rather than an analysis. Would have been great to have gotten more psychological insight on things like "theyre just pieces", beths obession over chess particularly, connection between good chess players and mental illness or what some characters think and feel in a certain scene and why. Maybe your next video about it :D

[@bellamaz1972]

It might’ve been shorter than others, but I still think the analysis was there :)

[@mylittlethoughttree]

Yeah this one was more a straight forward video essay arguing a certain theme than an in-depth character analysis. I wouldn't disagree, it's arguably one of the downsides of making weekly videos. I may make a second video someday though, yeah

[@nononouh]

6

[@user-ql3yj3zm2y]

Character exploration focused stories are great and all, but it usually comes down to an image of people playing chess, building cars, writing code etc, not to people actually doing those things. Would be cool to really delve into what it is to play chess, what it's like to sit and work out games step by step and compile them into manuscripts with notes and commentaries, especially since there were no personal computers back then. Feels kinda shallow.

[@yuppp7204]

You should go in depth into a character or siries Say a child hood siries as avatar, ben 10 kdn, ect Explain qhat makes them fasinanting or what they faild at Go in depth in a character in particular or the siries as a whole Review those who captivate your interest the most

[@captainawesome3544]

Completely off topic but are you the youtuber vegan footsoldier ?

[@saullevy1095]

You can't discuss Beth Harmon without discussing Eddie felson

[@zorkan111]

I just hope no one will decide to make a "sequel" about the rest of her life and make a mediocre series just to milk money off of the mini-series success. This sort of thing happens in the industry way too often.

[@alalcoolj216]

Beth is not World Champion. Not even close. Winning the world title takes two years of grueling play through the Interzonals and Candidates tournament just to reach the final, and then you have to defeat the defending champion in a 24-game match.

[@bennemann]

"It's about a woman in a male-dominated world" I beg to differ here, that's the one thing the show is NOT about, because she hardly faces any prejudice due to being female throughout the series. Real female chess players face A LOT worse than Beth ever did (as two examples out of many, see Grandmaster Jennifer Shahade's artwork "Not Particularly Beautiful", or Judit Polgar being forbidden to participate in an important tournament because its rules didn't specifically state women could participate). This is something that really was understated and underexplored in the series.

[@user-rx9ne3dr6h]

I really wish she ended up with Harry

[@kryziaa]

the joker lol

[@jaymcnaughton8368]

She does not become world champion by wining this one tournament.

[@lilpingu1066]

ooooooo

[@DMWayne-ke7fl]

This was a ripoff of Bobby Fischer.