‘CHALLENGERS’: An Emotional Journey on the Tennis Court of Love!
“Challengers” is at the forefront of trends on SoundsOfSeries, emerging as the must-watch film of the moment. If you were captivated by Zendaya’s performance in “Dune: Part 2,” you’ll be delighted to see her in this brand new feature film directed by Luca Guadagnino. We had the opportunity to screen the film, and here’s what we think!
“Tennis is a relationship,” confides Tashi, portrayed by Zendaya in ‘Challengers’. Inspired by the high stakes of tennis matches and the tension behind the scenes, the film explores a love triangle that promises surprising twists. When roommates Art Donaldson (Mike Faist) and Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor) both fall for Tashi, a complex dynamic unfolds. Once rivals in a match to win her phone number, they now find themselves competing for her heart. “I’m not a home-wrecker,” Tashi jokes, but as she juggles between the two suitors, she might just become one. While the storyline may seem cliché, Luca Guadagnino manages to surprise by offering a refreshing perspective on this theme.
The relationship between Art and Patrick in “Challengers” transcends mere friendship; it tiptoes on the border of love, as hinted at by Tashi’s comment about being a “home-wrecker.” This complex dynamic makes the characters incredibly endearing, and viewers find themselves torn between their preferences for one or the other. Even by the end of the film, this question remains unanswered. Tension-filled scenes, such as the kiss in the bedroom or the conclusion of the film, promise to be among the most memorable moments of 2024. Special mention goes to the quality of the imagery and transitions. Guadagnino and cinematographer Sayombhu Mukdeeprom offer an immersive visual experience, alternating between aerial shots, powerful zooms, the perspective of a player, and even the viewpoint of a tennis ball. This technical mastery keeps the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end, unable to anticipate the final outcome.
The screenplay of “Challengers” skillfully interweaves different chronological periods, shifting from the present to hours, days, or years earlier, then returning to the present before jumping back in time again. Despite this complex structure, which could easily disorient viewers, Justin Kuritzkes’ screenplay stands out for its intelligence and confidence. We didn’t miss a beat of the film.
‘Challengers‘ seems destined to become the standout film of the year. With its trio of endearing characters and unexpected twists, Luca Guadagnino and Justin Kuritzkes’ film managed to captivate audiences during its 131-minute runtime. For the director of “Call Me By Your Name,” it’s a challenge met with flying colors. We’re confident that ‘Challengers‘ will find its place among the year’s box-office hits.
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