Queen to Play

Have you seen the movie Queen to Play?

It is in French with English subtitles. I didn't mind the subtitles because the scenery is beautiful - truly breathtaking (I also enjoy the sound of people speaking French).

It is about a house cleaner who wants to learn to play chess. She asks a widowed professor (Kevin Kline) to teach her.

He reluctantly agrees (and spends the entire movie with exactly this expression).

Much of the movie takes place in his home (I could spend a lifetime there).

It is on an island off of the coast of France (I will need to get my atlas out to determine exactly where this spectacular place exists).

The professor and the house cleaner end up creating a connection while playing chess. She comes to see herself as a person beyond her profession and level of education and he begins to open himself up after losing his wife and living in years of isolation.

I adore this floor (aside from it being a giant chess board) it is marble and reminiscent of many old stately manors.

It is also the office building of a man who heads the local chess tournament championships.

 

Here is another view with a stone lion security guard (how wonderful is that?)

I won't spoil the end for you by telling you the outcome of the tournament-mostly because you really should see and feel this exquisite movie.

I will tell you that it is a glorious journey into what's possible for all human beings once we let go of the restrictions we place on ourselves.

This is a glimpse of the kitchen (very small by American standards but so rich in ambience and extraordinarily efficient).

So when you have a moment to spare click on Netflix choose Queen to Play. Sit back in your favorite comfy chair with a warm steamy beverage and escape to the coast of France.

While you are there take note that anything is possible and everything you need to live your dreams already exists in you.