Do not walk, run to the theater to see “Challengers.” As I see it, this is the movie of the spring season.
Set in New York during 2019 with flashbacks from the early 2000s, “Challengers” follows the story of a complex and ever-changing love triangle, where all members share one interest: tennis. Two boys who grew up playing tennis together, Art and Patrick, fall head-over-heels for the very talented Tashi Donaldson. After attending a party thrown by Tashi, the boys quickly realize that they are in a new sort of competition. Who will get the girl?
Aside from tennis matches and romantic rivalry, the film is comedic, erotic and full of techno/house music. It took place over several timelines, switching from present to past cohesively. By switching the timeline often, the audience gets introduced to the lore of characters; this enhances the tension and mystery that took place while in the present (2019) timeline.
Josh O’Connor plays Patrick, the “bad boy,” who has dreams of going pro with Tashi by his side. Mike Faist plays Art, the talented tennis player who is content with being just that; he is also the father of Tashi’s child. The film culminates with the two playing against each other, fighting to win “The Challenger” competition which could advance one of them to the U.S. Open.
Both O’Connor and Faist play great characters, each executing their roles with excellence. However, the real star of the film was Tashi – played by Zendaya.
After doing fantastic work in the “Dune” and “Euphoria” series, Zendaya has outdone herself again with an excellent performance in “Challengers.” While playing Tashi Duncan, she handled her tennis rackets with might and exemplified what it means to be a competitive athlete. Zendaya is a phenomenal actress and model – her presence on screen demands attention.
The film was meant to be released in September 2023, but due to the writer’s guild strike, it was postponed to April 26. “Challengers” first premiered in Australia on March 26. Plus, the trailer gave very little away about the story, which many have been anticipating since watching trailers since June.
Luca Guadagnino directed the film, with this being the newest jewel in his crown of hit films such as “Bones and All,” “Suspiria” and “Call Me by Your Name.” It was distributed by Amazon MGM studios and Warner Brothers Pictures.
I really loved this film, in fact, I will be seeing it again while it remains in theaters. Maybe I’m biased because I enjoy watching tennis, but this film was the perfect blend of action, romance and drama. I’d give “Challengers” four and a half tennis balls out of five.