Tashi, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, transformed her husband into a champion. But to overcome a recent losing streak and redeem himself, he'll need to face off against his former bes... Read allTashi, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, transformed her husband into a champion. But to overcome a recent losing streak and redeem himself, he'll need to face off against his former best friend and Tashi's ex-boyfriend.Tashi, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, transformed her husband into a champion. But to overcome a recent losing streak and redeem himself, he'll need to face off against his former best friend and Tashi's ex-boyfriend.
- Awards
- 8 wins & 7 nominations
- Art's Security Guard
- (as a different name)
- Lily
- (as AJ Lister)
- Director
- Writer
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaPatrick taking a bite of the churro and letting Art take one was unscripted. Josh O'Connor was starving and it was the first time he ever had churros.
- GoofsAfter Patrick loses the second set in his final round match against Art and smashes his racket, the chair umpire declares a code violation point penalty; however, it should have been a game penalty, as Patrick had already received a point penalty earlier in the match (the scoreboard at the bottom accurately reflects the correct score).
- Quotes
Patrick Zweig: I think maybe you're disturbed by the fact that she could've been with someone like me.
Art Donaldson: When we were teenagers.
Patrick Zweig: Huh.
[smiles]
Patrick Zweig: When we were teenagers.
- Crazy creditsOn the United States release of the film, the MGM logo appears after the brief opening prologue, and the roar of studio mascot, Leo the Lion, is silenced.
- ConnectionsFeatured in The Project: Episode dated 26 March 2024 (2024)
- SoundtracksSound the Trumpet
Written by Henry Purcell
Performed by The Toronto Children's Chorus
Courtesy of Marquis Classics
On paper, Challengers has all the ingredients for a gripping neo-noir drama. The sizzling chemistry between Zendaya and Faist is undeniable, and the psychological warfare that unfolds between the three leads is initially captivating. However, the film quickly fumbles its potential. The plot, while intriguing at its core, takes nonsensical detours that leave the audience feeling lost. The editing, with its jumpy cuts and unnecessary slow-motion sequences, disrupts the narrative flow rather than enhancing it. The dialogue, riddled with cliches and overly dramatic pronouncements, feels like a bad tennis pun-all forehand, no finesse.
Guadagnino's direction is a mixed bag. There are moments of visual brilliance, like the camerawork that mimics the frenetic energy of a high-stakes tennis match. But these glimpses are overshadowed by a general lack of focus. The film's pacing is uneven, lurching between drawn-out melodrama and rushed plot points. The use of symbolism is heavy-handed, with shots lingering on tennis balls and trophies as if the audience needs the emotional subtext spelt out.
The saving grace of Challengers lies in its central performances. Zendaya delivers a fierce and committed portrayal of Tashi, a woman consumed by ambition and a flicker of unresolved feelings. O'Connor is equally compelling as the brooding Patrick, his character simmering with resentment and a hint of vulnerability. Faist, however, struggles with the underwritten role of Art, who mostly functions as a pawn in the emotional tug-of-war.
While the film attempts to explore themes of ambition, love, and betrayal, it all feels a bit surface-level. There's a lack of depth to the characters' motivations, and the emotional payoffs fall flat. Compared to classic sports dramas that delve into the complexities of the athlete's psyche, Challengers feels like a missed volley.
Ultimately, Challengers is a frustrating watch. It boasts undeniable star power and intriguing thematic potential, but squanders it all with a convoluted plot, questionable direction, and clunky writing. If you're looking for a thought-provoking sports drama or a steamy love triangle, this film is a double fault.
- steveinadelaide
- Apr 20, 2024
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Details
- Release date
- Countries of origin
- Official sites
- Languages
- Also known as
- Desafiantes
- Filming locations
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Budget
- $55,000,000 (estimated)
- Gross US & Canada
- $50,119,408
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $15,011,061
- Apr 28, 2024
- Gross worldwide
- $96,019,408
- Runtime2 hours 11 minutes
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 1.85 : 1