Challengers Review: ‘May thy racket chip and shatter’

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In the vibrant realm of Luca Guadagnino’s cinema, a meal transcends mere sustenance — it becomes a sensuous dance, a prelude to passion. 

In the movie I Am Love, every bite of food creates a beautiful mix of flavors, and a plate of prawns becomes the main focus in a captivating cooking scene. In Call Me by Your Name, food is shown as a special form of art that brings people closer together. Scenes with runny egg yolks and ripe peaches express deep feelings of desire. This attention to detail and the artistry of food parallels the thematic depth found in Challengers, where culinary moments aren’t just about eating churros but are woven into the fabric of character connections and emotional journeys.

Now, step into Challengers, Guadagnino’s latest masterpiece, where the court serves as the stage for a different kind of drama — a post-horror palate cleanser seasoned with sweat. Here, tennis isn’t merely a sport — it’s a reflection of the characters’ appetites and desires.

The film opens and closes with a singular match, escalating to a visceral intensity in its final moments. The resounding thwack of the ball against rackets, the palpable sweat seemingly permeating the screen, and Guadagnino’s dynamic shifts between players’ perspectives immerse you deeply, questioning your sanity. Amidst this whirlwind, deciphering the ultimate victor proves challenging for those unversed in tennis.

Art Donaldson (Mike Faist), disciplined to joylessness, adheres to a strict regimen enforced by his wife and coach, Tashi Donaldson (Zendaya). Conversely, Patrick Zweig (Josh O’Connor) embodies a reckless passion fueled by literal and metaphorical hunger.

As the Challenger tournament in New Rochelle, New York approaches, emotional stakes soar. Thirteen years ago, Art and Zweig were inseparable until Duncan entered their lives, igniting a complex triangle of love and ambition. In a narrative akin to Jules and Jim, Guadagnino delves into the tempestuous dynamics between these athletic demigods, their destinies intertwined amidst the thump of tennis balls and the heat of competition.

The film’s structure mirrors a tennis match, with flashbacks and flash-forwards volleying in a decade-spanning narrative. Amidst the whirlwind of emotions, the palpable erotic energy pulsing through every frame remains constant. Guadagnino explores desire in all its forms, from charged glances to moments of intimacy.

Guadagnino’s film defies categorization, seamlessly blending sports drama, romance, and tragedy. As the final match draws to a close, lines between victory and defeat blur, leaving us questioning the true winners and losers. Challengers is not just a film — it’s an intensely emotional ride, a standout cinematic piece that deeply moves and affirms its place as a highlight of this year’s offerings. 

The chemistry between Zendaya, Faist, and O’Connor is incredibly potent, enhancing the film’s sense of authenticity and urgency. Guadagnino’s bold and innovative direction keeps the visuals sharp and the atmosphere thick with suspense, significantly contributing to the film’s tense narrative. The soundtrack complements this perfectly, with haunting melodies that amplify the stakes and emotional depth of the story. 

Guadagnino’s directorial prowess isn’t just evident in his distinctive style, but also his collaborative approach. He thrives in the editing room, but his openness allows for the actors, composers, and editors to shape the essence of the film. Here, each dialogue exchange feels like a thrilling tennis match with every scene filled with sweeping zoom-outs and rapid-fire cuts, adding to the stress of the narrative. The tennis scenes themselves? Stunning. From the slowed closed-ups to the ball’s point of view, every bit of this film leaves you entranced. 

When exiting the cinema after experiencing this rollercoaster of emotions, I couldn’t help but feel exhilarated, knowing I had witnessed something extraordinary. Guadagnino’s collaborative approach, coupled with stellar performances, bold direction, and a gripping storyline, ensures Challengers resonates long after the credits roll.