Queen of Chess is a compelling 2026 documentary that chronicles the extraordinary 15-year journey of Hungarian chess prodigy Judit Polgár. The film meticulously traces her path as she challenges the reigning world champion, Garry Kasparov, while simultaneously navigating a complex relationship with her controlling father. This biographical documentary captures how Polgár shattered the male-dominated chess world's glass ceiling, ultimately earning recognition as the greatest female player in history and one of the game's all-time finest competitors.

The documentary excels through its intimate access to archival footage, contemporary interviews, and psychological depth. Viewers witness not just Polgár's strategic brilliance over the board, but the immense personal sacrifices and societal pressures she endured. The film presents Kasparov not merely as an opponent, but as a symbol of the establishment she needed to conquer. Her father's controversial educational methods, which produced three chess-playing sisters, are examined with nuance and complexity.

Directed with clarity and emotional resonance, Queen of Chess transcends typical sports documentaries by exploring universal themes of ambition, family, and breaking barriers. The 93-minute runtime moves briskly through pivotal matches and personal milestones, supported by an IMDb rating of 7.6 that reflects its critical acclaim. Viewers should watch this film not only for its chess insights but for its powerful human story about defying limitations. It's an inspiring testament to how extraordinary talent, when combined with relentless determination, can change a game's history and inspire generations to come.