Tennis movies are always so captivating.
Challengers’ Leads the Pack in the Hot Tennis Movie Craze (Image Credit: Glamour UK)
On June 20, 2022, Mike Faist and Josh O’Connor filmed a scene for “Challengers,” sitting on either side of Zendaya on a motel bed. In their roles as Art and Patrick, they intensely interacted with her character, Tashi, displaying a deep yearning for her attention while trying to hide their own emotional needs.
Meanwhile, Zendaya was somewhat distracted. She remembers the day vividly, mainly because it was when Beyoncé released ‘Break My Soul.’ “I was having a great day,” she said, “like, ‘Y’all, Beyoncé’s new single just dropped.’ That’s really what captured my attention, to be honest.
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The film opens with Art (played by Faist) and Tashi (Zendaya) as the powerhouse couple in the world of professional tennis. Art is close to winning his first U.S. Open title, the only major he has yet to secure, while Tashi, his dynamic coach, manager, and wife, is a former tennis star whose promising career was cut short by a serious knee injury. In an effort to lift Art’s spirits after a series of losses, Tashi enters him into a lower-tier tournament that seems like an easy win—until he faces his old best friend, Patrick (O’Connor), in a dramatic final.
Written by Justin Kuritzkes, the screenplay weaves between the present and the trio’s tangled past through flashbacks. It begins when Art and Patrick, the inseparable “Fire and Ice” duo, both develop feelings for Tashi. As teenagers full of youthful passion, their friendship is tested. The drama intensifies one night with an impulsive three-way kiss, leading Tashi to declare she will only give her number to the winner of the boys’ singles tournament.
In the intense climax of “Challengers,” the focus shifts from Patrick and Art to a deeper exploration. As the match unfolds, Tashi’s journey to rediscover her passion takes center stage, transcending mere sports rivalry. Beyond the tennis court drama, the film delves into the bravery of pursuing one’s true desires. It’s a thrilling ride!
Culture writer Kyndall Cunningham and senior culture correspondent Alex Abads-Santos, both former tennis players and avid fans, discuss why tennis serves as a perfect backdrop for this gripping narrative. They break down the sport’s elements, ranking them from least to most captivating.
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