Challengers
A euphoric and riveting psycho-sexual sports drama that blew my fucking socks off.
Guadagnino's direction is fantastic. Despite his boredom for the sport of tennis; he's crafted one of the most spellbinding sports films I've ever witnessed. Paired with Justin Kuritzkes' exceptional script; they've made a seductive story of sexual liberation and power struggles.
The cinematography is mesmerising. Starting off quite distant and procedural; luring you into the intrigue of this particular match and it's players. But as the film continues, the camerawork becomes much more energetic and intimate. Sweat falling onto the camera, POV shots of the players as well as whip pans that bounce between arguments; the camerawork ends up mirroring the chaotic and primal nature of the tennis match.
The performances are stellar. Zendaya delivers possibly her finest performance as the sultry but manipulative Tashi. Mike Faist is amazing as Art; channelling this almost submissive but intimidating aura. Josh O'Connor is incredible as the sleazy but charming Patrick. The trio's chemistry is magnetic and reels you in with it's burning desire and heated dialogue.
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross strike again and create a blood-pumping electro-house score that only amplifies the tension. With its sexy and intoxicating atmosphere; it's hard to escape it's electrifying grasp.
The structure and pacing are tight and never loses it's rhythm and the editing holds it all together very well. The editing communicates the non-linear narrative extremely well whilst also making each moment of sexual or psychological tension; utterly gripping.
Art and Patrick have been chasing the spark that ignited their complicated but passionate love triangle with Tashi. Both men are enamoured by her beauty and expertise; but are easily manipulated by her seduction and mind games. There are hints to a more homoerotic relationship between the two which I think adds another layer of nuance to their relationship.
Tashi's true intention is to witness a 'tennis match' of romantic proportions like she did in her glory days. She gets enjoyment out of Art and Patrick's rivalry and at times; homo-erotiscm. Whether she orchestrated their final tennis match or not; this trio is inseparable. Leading to an exhilarating final match filled with intense emotions and rage that will be sure to keep you in awe up until the final frame.
This film fucks so incredibly hard and I can't wait for it to suck the soul out of my body again.
9/10