Release: 2024-04-18
Runtime: 2h 12m (132 minutes)
Tennis player turned coach Tashi has taken her husband, Art, and transformed him into a world-famous Major champion. To jolt him out of his recent losing streak, she signs him up for a "Challenger" event — close to the lowest level of pro tournament — where he finds himself standing across the net from his former best friend and Tashi's former boyfriend.
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Provided by JustWatch
Genres: Drama, Romance
Cast: Zendaya, Zendaya, Josh O'Connor, more
Zendaya
as Tashi Donaldson
Zendaya
as Tashi Donaldson
Josh O'Connor
as Patrick Zweig
Josh O'Connor
as Patrick Zweig
Mike Faist
as Art Donaldson
Mike Faist
as Art Donaldson
Nada Despotovich
as Tashi's Mother
Nada Despotovich
as Tashi's Mother
Darnell Appling
as Umpire (New Rochelle Final)
Darnell Appling
as Umpire (New Rochelle Final)
Hailey Gates
as Helen (Patrick's Date)
Hailey Gates
as Helen (Patrick's Date)
Zendaya
Producer
Zendaya
Producer
Luca Guadagnino
Director
Luca Guadagnino
Producer
Luca Guadagnino
Director
Luca Guadagnino
Producer
Sayombhu Mukdeeprom
Director of Photography
Sayombhu Mukdeeprom
Director of Photography
Howard Berger
Prosthetic Designer
Howard Berger
Prosthetic Designer
Darnell Appling
Associate Producer
Darnell Appling
Associate Producer
Tennis player turned coach Tashi has taken her husband, Art, and transformed him into a world-famous Major champion. To jolt him out of his recent losing streak, she signs him up for a "Challenger" event — close to the lowest level of pro tournament — where he finds himself standing across the net from his former best friend and Tashi's former boyfriend.
Her game. Her rules.
Challengers is a romantic sports drama directed by Luca Guadagnino, featuring a compelling love triangle that unfolds in the world of professional tennis. The film stars Zendaya as Tashi Duncan, an injured tennis star turned coach, alongside Josh O'Connor and Mike Faist. It explores the complex relationships between Tashi, her ex-boyfriend Patrick, and her husband Art over 13 years, culminating in a dramatic match between Patrick and Art on the ATP Challenger Tour.
The screenplay, written by Justin Kuritzkes, caught the attention of MGM in February 2022, leading to a quick assembly of the main cast and the director. To prepare for their roles, Zendaya, O'Connor, and Faist underwent extensive training with former tennis pro Brad Gilbert. Principal photography took place mainly in Boston, running from May to June 2022.
Originally set for a September 2023 release, the film's premiere was delayed due to the SAG-AFTRA strike. It finally debuted in Sydney on 26 March 2024 and arrived in U.S. theaters a month later, on 26 April 2024. Despite initial delays, Challengers has performed well at the box office, grossing approximately $96 million worldwide and receiving critical acclaim.
The film's narrative is nonlinear, weaving back and forth through time to reveal the evolving relationships among the characters. Starting in 2006, it showcases the early friendship between Patrick and Art, who fall for Tashi after witnessing her talent on the tennis court. The story progresses through their college years, the fallout from injuries, and their struggles with love and ambition.
As the film unfolds, Tashi's career takes a hit after an injury, forcing her to redefine her life and relationships. In 2019, Tashi and Art have built a life together, complete with a daughter, but Art is facing challenges on the court due to age and injuries. In a twist of fate, Patrick reenters Tashi's life, reigniting past tensions and leading to a climactic confrontation during a crucial match.
The cast includes:
The film has garnered significant praise, including nominations at various award shows, with particular highlights being its four nominations at the Golden Globe Awards. Critics have noted its vibrant performances and engaging storytelling, with Rotten Tomatoes reflecting an 88% approval rating from critics.
In addition to its compelling narrative, Challengers features a score composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, adding depth to the film’s emotional landscape. The film has been described as a "kinetic and sexy romp at court," showcasing not only the sport but the intricate dance of relationships within it.
For those looking for a film that combines sports, romance, and personal growth, Challengers offers an engaging watch with a unique perspective on the world of tennis and love.
