Have you watched the new ‘Netflix’ original trailer, where a young girl moves chess pieces on the board like clockwork? If you have, then chances are you were instantly intrigued by it, and we’re here to tell you that it’s absolutely worth a binge-watch!
The storyline is an adaptation of the 1983 Walter Tevis novel ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ which revolves around a troubled and orphaned teen who becomes a chess prodigy. In the past, Hollywood legends like Heath Ledger and Bernardo Bertolucci have tried to produce a Gambit film, so it’s clear that the plot is a legit masterpiece. Naturally, it would come down to the actors to portray these strong characters, and we must say, this cast does not disappoint! With Anya Taylor-Joy, Harry Melling, and Marielle Heller, many other stars have brought the 1950s charm to this ‘Netflix’ Original. After watching the series, we thought you’d appreciate knowing the real-life actors and their characters a little more. In case you haven’t seen it yet, don’t forget to grab some popcorn and watch the limited series!
Anya Taylor-Joy
You may know Anya Taylor-Joy from the television series 'The Queen's Gambit' through which she has made her mark in the Hollywood business, and is one of the most sought after young actresses for film roles. Her big break came when she appeared in 'The Witch' for which she earned several awards and landed her numerous resulting leading roles.
Despite being in the industry for just five years, Anya's talent is undeniable, and she boasts a couple of blockbuster productions like 'Glass' and 'Peaky Blinders.' For what its worth, it seems the actress is just beginning, and we look forward to seeing more of her incredible work ahead!
Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon
Beth Harmon, played by Anya Taylor-Joy in the critically acclaimed television series 'The Queen's Gambit,' is an orphan who discovers that she's a chess prodigy at nine, all while still in the orphanage. The young girl goes on to find fame and fortune despite struggling with several issues and lives along the fragile line between complete ruin and extraordinary success.
Beth is hungry for excellence, and nothing or no one will stop her. The character's palpable determination to achieve her dreams makes her an integral part of the emotional landscape of the series.
Harry Melling
Harry Melling is a British actor, famous for playing 'Dudley Dursley' in the 'Harry Potter' film series. The actor made his on-screen debut in 2000, with his performances in that beloved franchise receiving critical acclaim and opening up more opportunities in Hollywood for him.
Melling has quite an impressive acting portfolio, with over twenty films and television series under his belt. His most recent work includes 'The Old Guard' and the renowned show, 'The Queen's Gambit,' in which he is a fan favorite. The actor doesn't seem to be slowing down, and we bet there is more to come from this rising star.
Harry Melling as Harry Beltik
The 'Harry Potter' series star Harry Melling plays Harry Beltik, a chess genius who starts as Beth Harmon's rival before becoming her trusted friend and teacher. Even though their relationship is initially a rocky one, Beltik is determined to see Beth's potential blossom and shelves his ambition to help her achieve it.
Melling's performance in the role stands out, just like in the various productions he has starred in, including 'The Devil All The Time.' While Beltik is in awe of Beth's chess skills, we are in awe of Beltik's compelling portrayal of his character's competitiveness and soft belly in 'The Queen's Gambit.'
Marielle Heller
It is popular to see actors transition from being the show's stars to writing and directing other productions behind the scenes. Marielle Heller took the opposite route; she began her career producing and writing movies and plays before being cast in a significant camera role.
Known for her directing prowess, Heller took charge of movies like 'Can You Ever Forgive Me' and 'A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,' all of which were widely accepted as masterpieces. It seems like her talents don't end there, though, as her performances in 'The Queen's Gambit' series kept us glued to the screen!
Marielle Heller as Alma Wheatley
Alma Wheatley is the adoptive mother of Beth, who did not expect to raise a talented chess prodigy, so they have to find a way to work and live together. Alma is a lonely housewife; her husband is always absent, so she and Beth go onto share a strong bond after realizing that they have a lot in common.
As Marielle Heller's comeback to the screen after nearly a decade, Alma is a delight to watch. Although the character's interaction with Beth isn't the typical parent-child relationship, the two make for an intriguing scene of drama, with both of them having to navigate their differences before arriving at the positives.
Isla Johnston
Isla Johnston’s work as Young Beth in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’ is one of her best, but you may have seen her class-apart performance in ‘Doctors.’ The upcoming starlet started her career back in 2018 when she featured in a TV-series called ‘Kiri’ to favorable reviews.
With her back-to-back blockbusters, we know she has a bright future! The budding performer is a wholesome package of talent and knows well how to captivate the attention of the audience! It is just the beginning for the young girl, and we are confident that Isla will create wonders. Way to go, sweet lady!
Isla Johnston as young Beth
Young Beth, played by Isla Johnston, is an orphaned girl on the show who learns quite a few things while staying in the orphanage, some good and some bad. What is important is that she knows chess and is a total champ at it!
Young Beth was seen in four episodes of ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ and whatever we saw of her, we fell in love! Isla grabbed our attention every time she was on screen, only to leave us wanting more! We have to say we are thoroughly impressed, young lady!
Bill Camp
You may have seen Bill Camp in some famous movies like ‘Joker’ and ‘12 Years A Slave.’ His long and successful career has been possible only because of his passion for acting, and the actor has not left any platform, be it theatre, big screen, or television, to showcase his talent!
There are no surprises when we hear that Camp has been nominated for a couple of awards. Well, there is no doubt that he is truly deserving of all the love and accolades coming his way! We are big fans of your skill, Sir!
Bill Camp as Mr. Shaibel
Bill Camp takes on the role of Mr. Shaibel in ‘The Queen’s Gambit,’ a janitor at the orphanage, as shown in the series. His character is seen playing chess in the basement all by himself.
Mr. Shaibel is the one who introduces the game to Beth and ends up discovering that she is an exceptional player. Thankfully, Beth convinces him to let her play with him, which only reveals this surprising fact about her. Bill Camp has done an excellent job playing this particular role and will always remain quite unforgettable!
Millie Brady
She may have started her journey with 'Mr. Selfridge' in the entertainment industry, but Millie Brady has long since nailed a secure place for herself. Apart from being recognized for her role in 'The Queen's Gambit,' she was also loved in 'Legend.'
A lesser-known fact about her would be that she is also a model! Well, looking at her, we are not surprised at all! At such a young age, she has made a strong identity of her own. We are confident Millie is going to be seen way more often on-screen in the coming future!
Millie Brady as Cleo
Millie Brady could have easily tricked the audience with the role of the Parisian Cleo, the only woman Beth comes across in the boys club chess world. Both Cleo and Beth first meet in New York and later in Europe, where Beth wishes to spoil her success.
It is evident that Beth finds Cleo very fashionable and so much more Beth wishes she could be like her. Millie Brady, as Cleo does full justice to her role, manages to leave an everlasting impression on our minds and hearts! A ten out of ten to this character from us!
Moses Ingram
Moses Ingram is a supremely talented actor and writer who has left everyone spellbound with her work in 'The Queen's Gambit.' Apart from this, she will be playing the role of Lady Macbeth in Joel Coen's upcoming 'Macbeth' in 2021!
We honestly cannot wait to see more of this amazing actress. Ingram sure has a stable future waiting for her! Looking at the actress's eye-catching screen presence, so many directors just want to cast her already. Moses should certainly not worry about financial challenges because she is sorted in every way possible, thanks to her booming career.
Moses Ingram as Jolene
Moses Ingram was an absolute treat to watch playing the role of Jolene in 'The Queen's Gambit.' The highlight of her role was definitely the bond Jolene and Beth developed. The two met as children in an orphanage but created a connection that would last a lifetime. Their relationship is also carried in the future even though they don't see each other as often.
There are several moments where the audience can see what is different in Jolene's world. Ingram's Jolene gives the viewers many a thought-provoking moment! Let us give her a huge round of applause for giving her heart out to her work.
Marcin Dorociński
Polish actor Marcin Dorociński is famous for his roles in 'Jack Strong' and the popular Netflix series 'The Queen's Gambit.' The actor has had an incredibly successful career in and out of his native Poland, starring in over forty films including 'Roza' for which he won an award, and 'Hurricane' which he appeared alongside Milo Gibson.
Marcin's impressive performance in 'The Queen's Gambit' has seen him receive praise from critics and fans alike, with his experience oozing from his character. It is no wonder he landed the role, and we bet his past productions are as good as the man himself.
Marcin Dorociński as Vasily Borgov
Vasily Borgov is a Russian chess master and Beth's most dreaded competitor, who epitomizes the cold relations between the US and Russia at the time. Although he appears unfazed by Beth's chess prowess, Borgov is frightened by the young prodigy.
Played with poise by the cool Marcin Dorocinski, Borgov's standoff with success hungry Beth brings thrilling drama to the series and will leave you longing for the next episode. The two's performance is beautifully intense and kind of makes the point that despite looking like a calm and collected sport, chess should be considered among the insane games ever to exist.
Thomas Brodie-Sangster
Thomas Brodie-Sangster is a British actor whose performance as 'Sam' in 'Love Actually' brought him critical acclaim and subsequent breakthrough in the film industry. The actor has since 2003 appeared in countless movies and television shows, including award-winning series 'Game of Thrones' and the commercially successful 'Maze Runner' trilogy.
Thomas is a force to reckon with, and he has acquired vast acting experience, despite his young age. If his performances in 'The Queen's Gambit' are anything to go by, it is clear that we will witness more of his genius, as he doesn't look like slowing down any time soon.
Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Benny
If you recognize Thomas Brodie-Sangster as Benny, it is because you have seen him before in either 'Love Actually' or as 'Jojen Reed' in the series 'Game of Thrones.' Benny's character is a tad arrogant, albeit calm, confident, and a fierce competitor to Beth, who becomes one of her greatest allies in the process.
The international chess champion Benny grows close to Beth throughout the series, guiding her into the game's charming moments and teaches her the ropes. Theirs is the classic case of foe becomes friend, which they beautifully explore together.