Disney+ adds 'masterpiece' which is perfect for The Queen's Gambit fans

Disney+ has launched a riveting six-part series that's a must-watch for enthusiasts of Netflix's acclaimed show The Queen's Gambit.

The enthralling series, which featured Anya Taylor-Joy as the chess whizz Beth Harmon, seized the attention of countless viewers amid the pandemic and triggered an immense surge in chess's allure.

Now, its competitor has snapped up a new drama that premiered in France last year, centring on a chess tournament that's just as compelling.

The twist? It's rooted in real events.

Christian Cooke stars as the legendary Russian grandmaster Garry Kasparov in this gripping miniseries, chronicling his epic rematch with IBM's pioneering computer Deep Blue, the first to triumph in a chess match, reports .

In an exclusive chat with Express Online, British actor Cooke shared insights into his portrayal of Kasparov, hinting at the drama's intense authenticity.

"I equated it to boxing," he said. "It really is the same in that it's one person against another opponent and that's the kind of mindset.

"With each move you're kind of sussing your opponent out and trying to lure them in and then jabbing and jabbing and then you go for the kill.

"That was helpful for me, in terms of how he thinks about his opponents and how he might stare them down over the board. Or after a game, you shake hands like boxers who embrace afterwards."

Cooke reflected on the complexities of bringing the chess legend to life, stating: "I didn't want to imitate Garry in any way but I wanted to capture who he was, which is this very focused person with a healthy amount of aggression to succeed and win.

"Or maybe unhealthy, occasionally, but that's just what it takes to be the top of any discipline, on the top of the tree. You do have to sacrifice a lot and you have to be slightly cutthroat and apologetic and driven, and that's how he was."

Disney+ commenced streaming the hot new series today (Wednesday, 21st May), amid a chorus of high praise from devotees who accessed the first screenings in France.

Exuberant reviews abound, with a stellar analysis on Google declaring: "Absolutely amazing. Gripping and exciting until the very last second."

Another fan enthused: "Captivating. I watched all 6 episodes in one go."

A particularly thrilled viewer exclaimed: "It's amazing whether you like chess or not, we're 200% into it."

One impressed IMDb critic hailed Rematch as a "masterpiece", sharing: "this is [a] high class series.

"Have fun watching it is breathtaking all along the 6 episodes. Interesting high class.

"Worth a 9/10 and up for those who like or don't like chess you will appreciate it. I watched the 6 [episodes] in a row!!!"

The series is emerging as a must-see for The Queen's Gambit fans - which essentially means anyone with a Netflix subscription.

Rematch is available to stream on Disney+.