Reflection on the Queen’s Gambit (miniseries)
Tags: Netflix, Reflections, Series, The Queens Gambit, Review

The purpose of writing a personal evaluation and reflection on Netlfix’s record-breaking miniseries, ‘The Queen’s Gambit’, is the idea of translating fondness and admiration into a more visually coherent and available form. It comprises attentiveness in concepts and captivating scrutiny of scenes with an intimate connection.

The screenplay has an essential yet not overshadowing touch on gender inequality, differentiation, and alineation while maintaining to focus on Beth Harmon’s evolutionary path towards success. The main characteristics and attitudes of the protagonist are profound. She has been taught to be strong and independent as, at the end of the day, she will eventually be only by herself. Rarely she opened up her vulnerability to the audience (the scenes where she was crying after Alma’s and Mr Shaibel’s death), building up her complex personality (whether she is mainly feeling numbness or keeping everything inside as a secret). Another unique feature about Beth is the prioritization of her goal over everything, especially relations. It is beneficial and advantageous in terms of concentration towards the plan; however, it was hurtful and depressing for her, especially when she realized she does not give enough attention to people surrounded who love her. Presentation of her ignorance towards sex-based perception and biased separation makes her and the series itself revolutionary in some way that translates positive intentions to the audience. The composure after multiple fails and self-instinctive decisions on riskiest moments are reflective examples for people who are watching the ‘The Queen’s Gambit’. Not only it managed to achieve great acknowledgement in recent cinematography, but it also set a perfect example with a positive influence on society as a number of people, especially women, started to subscribe to chess-related activities.

There are several shots from scenes that have interesting discussion points. When Beth either works on movements alone or gets help from her friends, the set of moments displays a perfect juxtaposition in performance; both individualistic and collaborative approaches are vital for achievements, and therefore they should always be complementary. In the last episode, it was visible that Borgov started to observe Beth closely by analyzing her and methodologies, which explicates the danger, progress, and higher confidence resonating from her. Beth wasn’t prepping for games much except the last two matches throughout the entire competition in Moscow. This is a perfect combination of trusting your guts and putting in a maximum of refined effort with the collaboration of minds and hearts, and it is truly splendid. In the final match scene where Gorbov made an unusual move, Beth compiled herself and started to visualize the game and way-out movements on the ceiling (something I wish I had as a superpower). It was the final breath of composure she does, which allows her to visualize the game; no tranquillizers. The idea behind it is to illustrate the importance of fortitude and finding peace, and trusting your instincts to do the job. It is an essential shot in the episode as it does convey a message that although drugs assisted her through rough times and opened up her gift, in the end, it was all about her intelligence and brilliance. After the triumph, Jolene’s “good for you” phrase points out Beth Harmon’s intentions as it was solely a personal aim instead of getting more recognition from the public. It is a valuable perception, as it is not appreciated nor valued much in often cases. The last shot from episode 7 is when Beth meets old locals who play and get noticed by them. The genuine smile on her face and “Sygraem” reply portray the sense of hope; she is finally found a piece of contentment in her life. That is the perfect ending for the miniseries we can ever wish for.

I want to reveal personal reflections on ‘Queen’s Gambit’ as it was solely the main thing in my mind for a couple of weeks. The outcome from the series was pure and straightforward; I felt the sense of being the protagonist of my life and realizing that progress for accomplishment is in my hands. The addiction and dependence of tranquillizers made me speculate concerning all alternatives individuals are consuming to ease their pain, escape reality, and free minds from loads of uncertainties and questions. Beth’s personality enlightened me on the essence of the solitary approach, and the entirety of well-being; recognizing the senselessness of simply sitting around and trying to find comfort or happiness in others and directing the attention towards my self-development is remarkable. The ‘bitchy’ yet aesthetically pleasing attitude of hers radiated some realization in me that I need to begin doing things the way I feel like doing. Referencing back the “winning at all costs” mindset, I witness the desire for competing, working hard, and fighting for what I aimed for years. Take on from Beth Harmon is that complaining was never an option, and all the challenges should be accepted to move on. All the failures and crashes should be considered as stepping stones for accomplishments. Once the goal is established and the hard work is done, the queen’s gambit will designate your success.