All through my childhood whenever my grandparents babysat me and my brothers, we were exposed to the great game of tennis. That’s all I ever remember my grandparents watching all day and night, in fact I was named after a tennis player, Neale Fraser. So naturally I was excited to watch this film that explores the in’s and out’s of the sport. In Luca Guadagnino’s latest film, Challengers, the tennis court becomes a battleground for love, rivalry, and redemption. Starring the incomparable Zendaya as Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy turned coach, the movie serves up a thrilling blend of passion, power, and pulse-pounding action.
From visionary filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, Challengers stars Zendaya as Tashi Duncan, a former tennis prodigy-turned-coach and a force of nature who makes no apologies for her game on and off the court. Married to a champion on a losing streak (Mike Faist), Tashi’s strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face off against the washed-up Patrick (Josh O’Connor)—his former best friend and Tashi’s former boyfriend. As their pasts and presents collide, and tensions run high, Tashi must ask herself, what will it cost to win?
As Tashi, Zendaya commands the screen with an alluring presence. Her charisma and vulnerability collide, making Tashi a character you can’t look away from. Even when her tennis career takes an unexpected turn, Zendaya’s performance remains intoxicating. During the film, Tashi finds herself caught between two fellow tennis players—Art Donaldson (played by the talented Mike Faist) and Patrick Zweig (the brilliant Josh O’Connor). Their playful rivalry evolves into a 13-year-long battle, both on and off the court. The sexual tension, the bisexual chaos—it’s all there, simmering beneath the surface.
Guadagnino’s direction elevates tennis matches to heart-pounding action sequences. The thumping techno score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross intensifies every volley, every serve. You’ll feel the sweat, the tension, and the stakes as if you’re right there on the court. Art and Patrick, known as Fire and Ice in the tennis world, clash with contrasting styles. Art’s controlled precision versus Patrick’s freewheeling chaos creates a mesmerizing dynamic. And watching Zendaya’s Tashi navigate their relationship adds layers of complexity.
Guadagnino shuttles us through time, but the heart of the film centers on a crucial tennis match in upstate New York. Art, now Tashi’s husband and coached by her, seeks a comeback. Patrick now threatens Art’s path to victory. Challengers allows Zendaya to excel in her role as Tashi, showcasing her strength and vulnerability, making her a once-in-a-lifetime presence not only on the court but on the screen. Tashi’s fluid sexuality is refreshing. Guadagnino doesn’t shy away from exploring desire and connection beyond traditional boundaries. It’s a bold move that adds depth to the characters.
Challengers is intoxicating, exhilarating, and messy, but in all the right ways. It’s a love letter to tennis, passion, and the human spirit. Zendaya’s star power shines brightly, leaving us craving more. Don’t miss this ace of a film!
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
