The Story of Benny Watts
Benny Watts is a character in the popular Netflix series “The Queen´s Gambit”, based on the novel of the same name by Walter Tevis. He is portrayed as a young, talented and ambitious chess prodigy who becomes a rival and mentor for the main character, Beth Harmon.
Benny Watts, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster, is introduced to the audience as a confident and rebellious player, often seen smoking and drinking while playing chess. He is a Grandmaster by the age of 22 and considered to be one of the best chess players in the United States.
The series follows Beth and Benny´s journey as they compete against each other in various tournaments and form a professional and personal bond. Their relationship is dynamic and constantly evolves as they learn from each other´s strengths and weaknesses.
Benny´s career in chess has been influenced by his family´s love for the game. His grandfather, who was also a chess player, taught him how to play at a young age. He quickly became obsessed with the game and dedicated all his time and efforts towards mastering it.
Benny´s Rise to Fame
Benny first started playing in small local tournaments and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional talent. By the age of 16, he had already won several state championships and was invited to compete in major national tournaments. He made a name for himself as a fierce and unconventional player, often using his impulsiveness and daring strategies to win games.
Despite his success, Benny´s journey to becoming a Grandmaster was not without its fair share of challenges. He faced criticism and stereotypes for being a young and non-traditional player in a game mostly dominated by older men. However, he refused to conform and continued to play in his own unique style.
His breakthrough moment came when he competed against Russian Grandmaster Vasily Borgov, who was known as one of the best players in the world. In an intense and closely contested match, Benny managed to defeat Borgov, solidifying his position as one of the top players in the world.
Benny´s Mentorship of Beth Harmon
While Beth and Benny´s relationship starts off as a rivalry, it eventually evolves into a mentor-mentee dynamic. Benny sees potential in Beth and recognizes her natural talent for the game. He takes her under his wing and helps her improve her skills and broaden her knowledge of chess.
Benny´s mentorship not only improves Beth´s game but also helps her develop a better understanding and love for chess. He encourages her to think creatively and take risks, which ultimately helps her defeat Borgov in their rematch.
Throughout the series, Benny´s character is portrayed as a complex and multifaceted person. While on the surface, he may seem confident and arrogant, he also has a vulnerable side that is revealed through his struggles with alcohol and relationships. His character arc serves as a reminder that even the most talented and successful individuals have their own demons to battle.
The Impact of Benny Watts
Benny Watts has captured the hearts of viewers and has become a beloved character in “The Queen´s Gambit”. His portrayal as a young and rebellious chess prodigy challenges the traditional notions of what a chess player should be, and his relationship with Beth highlights the importance of support and mentorship in a highly competitive field.
Moreover, the series has sparked a renewed interest in chess, with many young viewers taking up the game and seeking out local chess clubs. This can be attributed in part to the captivating and relatable character of Benny Watts, who serves as an inspiration for young players to pursue their passion and not be afraid to be unconventional.
In conclusion, “The Queen´s Gambit” presents a realistic and nuanced portrayal of a chess prodigy´s journey, with Benny Watts as one of the most compelling and influential characters. His impact on the story and on the audience is undeniable, making him a crucial component of this critically acclaimed series.
