Netflix has released the official trailer and key art for Queen of Chess, a new documentary directed by Academy Award nominee Rory Kennedy.
The film will have its world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 2026, ahead of its global Netflix debut on February 6, 2026.
Queen of Chess Release Date and Sundance Premiere
Netflix has confirmed that Queen of Chess will first screen at Sundance on January 27, 2026. The film then arrives on Netflix worldwide on February 6, 2026, less than two weeks after its festival debut.
Watch the Trailer
What Queen of Chess Is About
According to the official logline, Queen of Chess follows the life and career of Judit Polgár, who began competing internationally at a young age in a field historically dominated by men.
The documentary traces Polgár’s journey from childhood through a 15-year professional arc, focusing on her ambition to defeat reigning world champion Garry Kasparov. The film documents her rise through elite chess circles while examining the demands and pressures involved in sustaining a career at the highest level of competition.
The film centers on both Polgár’s competitive achievements and the broader personal challenges she faced along the way.
Rory Kennedy’s Approach to the Story
Queen of Chess is directed by Rory Kennedy, whose previous documentaries include Downfall: The Case Against Boeing, The Volcano: Rescue From Whakaari, and Last Days in Vietnam. Kennedy also serves as a producer on the film.
Creative Team and Production Credits
The film is produced by Rory Kennedy, Mark Bailey, and Keven McAlester, with executive producers Peter Stern, Gabor Harmi, Galen Walker, Stephen Nemeth, Regina K. Scully, and Meryl Metni.
Writing credits are shared by Mark Bailey and Keven McAlester. Editing is handled by Jesse Overman and Azin Samari. The score is composed by Camilo Forero and Chris Brocato for Bleeding Fingers Music.
Queen of Chess is produced by Moxie Films.
Judit Polgár’s Place in Chess History
Judit Polgár is widely recognized for competing at the highest levels of international chess without participating in women-only tournaments. Netflix emphasizes her pursuit of excellence in open competition, culminating in matches against the sport’s top-ranked players.
The documentary spans multiple phases of Polgár’s career, illustrating how her goals evolved over time and how success at the elite level required more than technical skill alone.
The Poster
Key Details: Queen of Chess
- Title: Queen of Chess
- World premiere: January 27, 2026 (Sundance Film Festival)
- Netflix release date: February 6, 2026
- Director: Rory Kennedy
- Subject: Judit Polgár
- Focus: Rise through international chess and pursuit of Garry Kasparov
- Production company: Moxie Films