Five years after The Queen's Gambit captivated audiences, Netflix has released Queen of Chess, a documentary chronicling the rise of chess prodigy Judit Polgar. The film follows her journey from age 12 in 1989 to becoming the youngest grandmaster at 15. It highlights her challenges against top players like Garry Kasparov.
Queen of Chess offers an in-depth look at Judit Polgar's groundbreaking career in a male-dominated sport. Starting in 1989, when Polgar was just 12 years old and already dominating the board, the documentary traces her 13-year pursuit of excellence, culminating in her historic achievement as the youngest chess grandmaster at age 15—a milestone that garnered global attention.
The film centers on Polgar's determination to compete at the highest levels, including her confrontations with Garry Kasparov, widely regarded as one of the greatest players ever. It captures the intensity of her victories, rivalries, and the personal relationships formed amid constant tournaments and high-pressure matches.
Directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Rory Kennedy, the documentary features interviews with Polgar, her family, Kasparov, and other elite players who witnessed her ascent. Writers Mark Bailey and Keven McAlester, along with producers including Kennedy, crafted the narrative, supported by cinematography from Imre Juhasz, music by Camilo Forero and Chris Brocato, and editing by Azin Samari and Jesse Overman.
Having premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival, Queen of Chess is now available for streaming on Netflix. For fans of strategic drama akin to The Queen's Gambit, this real-life story provides authentic insights into Polgar's relentless drive and the barriers she shattered in chess.
