1. D4 d5 2. C4, and the Queen's Gambit is on the board.

As a former chess enthusiast, it was pretty sad that it took me this long to watch this series. The story was about Beth Harmon, a chess prodigy on her way of becoming another fictionalized Paul Morphy, both in a good and bad way.

I was hooked in the first two episodes that set up the story. Her interaction with the janitor was interesting, and it was where Harmon's talent was discovered.

From then on, the series became amusing as Harmon stomped over her opponents, as a prodigy should.

There were quite a bit of chess jargons and moves mentioned that can satisfy chess enthusiasts, but there's not so much that would bore an average viewer.

The show had couple of themes that we have seen before. Famous chess players, like artists, can be susceptible to drugs and alcohol, which can bring them down to a low point. Harmon's terrible childhood and some misguidance did not help her a lot. Also, obsession with chess, like other artistic media, can be dangerous and socially damaging. However, great social support can bring a person away from the low point.

Overall, an entertaining drama that had a beautiful ending. 8/10.