The Queen's Gambit
Channel: Netflix South Africa
TX Time: 10h00 (all episodes)
Genre: Drama, Miniseries
Based on the novel by Walter Tevis, this limited series drama is a coming-of-age story that explores the true cost of genius.
Abandoned and entrusted to a Kentucky orphanage in the late 1950s, a young Beth Harmon discovers an astonishing talent for chess while developing an addiction to tranquilizers provided by the state as a sedative for the children.
Haunted by her personal demons and fueled by a cocktail of narcotics and obsession, Beth transforms into an impressively skilled and glamorous outcast while determined to conquer the traditional boundaries established in the male-dominated world of competitive chess.
Some of the main characters include:
Beth Harmon
An orphaned girl in Kentucky who realises an incredible talent for chess while developing a dependency on tranquilizers at an early age.
As she grows into a young woman, fueled by her addictions, Beth jeopardises herself and those around her in her determined pursuit of becoming champion.
Alma Wheatley
A lonely housewife with an absent husband and her own vices, Alma welcomes Beth as both her adopted daughter and much needed companion.
Benny Watts
Arrogant, confident and calm, Benny Watts, a young chess talent himself, becomes one of Beth's greatest opponents as well as one of her closest allies.
Jolene
Fellow orphan, and host to new residents at the orphanage, Jolene, quickly befriends Beth and helps her navigate the rules and regulations of orphan life.
Harry Beltik
A traditional learner and one of the best chess players in the state of Kentucky, Harry is in awe of Beth's talent and enters her life when she is at a low point.
Mr. Shaibel
The janitor who introduces Beth to the game of chess. Quickly humbled by her natural ability at the game, Mr. Shaibel opens new doors for the young prodigy.
Work in Progress
Channel: M-Net (DStv 101)
TX Time: 22h30
Genre: Comedy
A half-hour comedy series created by Chicago improv mainstays Abby McEnany and Tim Mason.
Work in Progress features McEnany as a 45-year-old self-identified fat, queer dyke from Chicago whose misfortune and despair unexpectedly lead her to a vibrantly transformative relationship.
Chicago-based performer Karin Anglin co-stars alongside Celeste Pechous, with Julia Sweeney (Saturday Night Live) appearing in a crucial role as herself.
Theo Germaine (The Politician) will also appear as a guest star.
Move
Channel: Netflix South Africa
TX Time: 10h00 (all episodes)
Genre: Documentary Series
Discover the brilliant dancers and choreographers who are shaping the art of movement around the world in this documentary series.