Described as smart and seductive, "Challengers" is possibly the most delightful film directed by Luca Guadagnino to date. The film unfolds a love-triangle drama between two ex-best friends rivalling on the tennis court and their shared attraction to a determined woman whose competitive spirit remains strong despite a career-ending knee injury. Benefitting from the palpable chemistry between stars Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist, the film showcases numerous heated and lively tennis matches, creating a captivating dynamic throughout.
"Challengers" showcases a wealth of talent starting from the witty screenplay of Justin Kuritzkes, to the vibrant editing of Marco Costa. Perfectly timed cinematography, exhilarating tennis matches and the intoxicating frame of the lead characters, all contributing to the film’s nonstop vitality.
Furthermore, the movie is enhanced by hypnotic techno music by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, reminiscent of the pulsating EDM of the 21st century. Combined with outstanding sound effects, every tennis ball hit resounds with intensity, making the movie an immersive auditory experience.
The plot traverses primarily between 2019 and 2006. In the beginning, Art Donaldson (Faist) despite being one of the top-ranked tennis players, battles a series of losses until his wife and coach, Tashi Duncan (Zendaya), signs him up for a lesser-known tournament to help regain his confidence. However, the unexpected participation of his ex-best friend turned rival, Patrick Zweig (O’Connor), creates an unexpected challenge.
While the plotline is relatively straightforward, the intricacies of the love-triangle and the intriguing actions of the lead actors keep the spectators engrossed. Guadagnino clearly prioritizes relationships, revealing more about the complex play of desire rather than the on-court sportsmanship.
The film beautifully captures the underlying physical attraction between Art and Patrick even as they pursue their individual bonds with Tashi. Guadagnino cleverly maintains this undertone throughout the film, cohering it seamlessly into the narrative.
Furthermore, Kuritzkes’ script unravels the complexities in the triangle with finesse. Patrick's knowledge of Art's weariness of the pressure, Tashi's resentment due to her forced retirement, and her thirst to win add layers to the narrative.
Guadagnino skillfully merges the action over the narratives’ non-chronological arc, interspersing athletic rivalry and high-stakes personal dynamics to construct an engaging sports movie. The director gets considerable help from his three or principal characters, who skilfully give a solid psychological and physical performance.
Patrick, played by O’Connor, brings a casual swagger and charm still recovering from a shattered dream. Faist depicts Art, a player under immense pressure and fading ambition, with deep intensity making his struggle emotionally moving.
Zendaya, as Tashi, portrays a strong, focused, and driven tennis star with a formidable aura, maintaining sharp expressions that convey every emotion aptly while seldom losing her calm. Apart from this, the aesthetics of the movie, including the chic sports attire, are impressive, emphasizing Guadagnino’s keen eye for details.
"Challengers" aligns with the sensual undertone of Guadagnino’s previous film "A Bigger Splash". However, the exciting disruption in the triangular relationship dynamics in this new movie marks it distinctively fun.
