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The Reviews Are In! Lupita Nyong'o's Queen of Katwe Garnering Critical Acclaim

Here's a roundup of what the critics are saying.

Everyone is talking about the incredible new Disney film Queen of Katwe, starring Oscar winner Lupita Nyong'o, David Oyelowo and newcomer Madina Nalwanga. The film, though brought to theaters through the lens of Disney, is proving to be an inspiration for people of all ages.

The uplifting movie about a young girl who discovers her inner talent of being a chess wiz will have you inspired like no other and may just be that pick-me-up you need to end your week right.

Don't believe us? Take the critics' words for it.

Rolling Stone said the film had the perfect balance of old and new star power: "Directed by the great Mira Nair, the film hits you like a shot in the heart," they said. "Nyong'o and Oyelowo are both extraordinary, giving newcomer Nalwanga a chance to shine as Phiona grows into her own woman."

The New York Observer agreed with that sentiment, saying the inspiring message drove the story to finish line: "The story is true, and the message it delivers — with care and help, the disenfranchised can become role models and inspire others — is unabashedly sentimental, but in a good way."

Also, don't expect to see the quintessentially sappy — and predictable — Disney formula reproduced in his film. "It shirks the typical Disney model of an untouchable, picturesque fantasy by telling a more grounded, human story coursing with love and earnestness," ScreenCrush said.

Forbes also pointed out that the film takes you through a roller coaster of emotions from beginning to end, dubbing it "uplifting, often heartbreaking, and always absorbing, filled with impressive performances and a subversion of Western expectations that make it rise above the other entries in the genre over the last few years."

School Library Journal and Vox highlighted its simplicity, directness and warmth, saying it is "quietly triumphant, told modestly and straightforwardly," and "entertaining and engrossing and funny and heartwarming," respectively.

Meanwhile, Film Comment Magazine kept it short and sweet, saying, "The ensemble is seamless."

Take a look at the tear-jerking trailer, below:

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