Ep 4. Middle Game

In "The Queen's Gambit" season 1 episode 4, titled "Middle Game," Beth's success in the chess world continues to grow as she competes in several tournaments. Along the way, she meets a famous chess player named Benny Watts, who becomes both her mentor and love interest.

As Beth's career takes off, she becomes increasingly driven to succeed, spending long hours practicing and studying the game. However, her dedication also leads to a growing dependence on tranquilizers, which she uses to cope with the pressure and anxiety of competition.

Despite her growing fame and success, Beth faces several obstacles, both on and off the chessboard. She struggles to navigate the predominantly male world of competitive chess and faces resistance and hostility from some of her opponents and peers. Additionally, her troubled past and difficult upbringing continue to weigh heavily on her, leading to occasional bouts of self-destructive behavior.

As the episode progresses, both Beth's personal and professional lives are put to the test. She faces a particularly challenging opponent in one tournament, and the pressure of her success begins to unravel her personal relationships. Ultimately, she must come to terms with the fact that winning at all costs may come at a steep price.

Overall, "Middle Game" is a gripping and emotional installment in "The Queen's Gambit," highlighting both the highs and lows of Beth's journey. It explores themes of addiction, sexism, and personal sacrifice, bringing depth and complexity to the story and characters. Fans of the show will not want to miss this pivotal episode.