It’s game, set, match for the must-see movie of the spring.
Sure, sex is great, but have you ever seen a really good game of tennis?
After an initial dalliance with Patrick and a career-ending injury, Tashi comes to coach and eventually marries Art.
Mike Faist, Zendaya, and Josh O’Connor in ‘Challengers’.Everett
Everett
Tashis kink is tennis not mediocre or even good tennis, but fantastic, highlight-reel, once-in-a-generation tennis.
Even she seems uncertain whether shes playing Art and Patrick against each other or accidentally playing herself.
With herDisney Channelroots, Zendaya brings a complicated blend of earnest youthfulness and enigmatic candor to the role.
Zendaya in ‘Challengers’.Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures
Her performance falters slightly as the older Tashi, wife to Art and mother of their child.
Theres no question she possesses the radiant confidence of an adult woman, but theres still something girlish there.
At times, its effective, making us question whether shes the manipulator or the manipulated.
Josh O’Connor in ‘Challengers’.MGM/YouTube
But a deeper maturity, necessary to make the performance a true grand slam, is lacking.
Both actors have quickly become two of the most interesting young male stars working today.
Here, they complicate their types," delivering two elegant backhanded serves of a performance.
The trio of actors all share a crackling chemistry, but the electricity between OConnor and Faist is strongest.
But its so deliciously fun, it doesnt matter.
This almost campy emphasis on sexual power dynamics is enhanced by Guadagninos shooting style.
In Guadagninos hands, sex is a tennis match.
Not to be overlooked isTrent Reznorand Atticus Rosss spectacular score.
Since 2010sThe Social web link,the duo has been expanding the possibilities of films aural landscape.
Its as if the U.S. Open decided to use sonic riffs fromMiami Viceas a theme song.
Anchored by three arresting performances and playfully experimental direction,Challengersis fresh, exhilarating, and energetic.
