Zendaya's upcoming tennis drama has us hooked.
- by
Madison Scott
In the echoing silence of a tennis court, where each swing and miss resonates with the weight of dreams and desires, Luca Guadagnino’s newest film, Challengers, serves up a compelling tale of love, ambition, and redemption.
Set against the backdrop of the high-stakes world of professional tennis, the film dives deep into the complexities of human relationships and the cost of pursuing one's passion at all costs.
Watch Below: CHALLENGERS | Official Trailer
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Who is in Challengers?
At the heart of this riveting drama is Tashi Duncan, portrayed with electrifying intensity by the multi-talented Zendaya. Once a rising tennis prodigy herself, Tashi has traded her racket for a coach's clipboard, channelling her fierce determination and unyielding spirit into shaping the next generation of athletes. But as the wife of a champion on a downward spiral, she finds herself navigating a web of emotions and decisions that could either save or shatter her husband's career.
Mike Faist, known for his role in West Side Story, plays Tashi’s husband, a once-glorious champion grappling with his fading prowess on the court. His journey to redemption takes an unexpected twist when he confronts his past in the form of Patrick, portrayed by Josh O’Connor of The Crown fame. As former best friends and rivals, their reunion is charged with unresolved tensions and buried emotions, forcing them to confront the choices they've made and the paths they've chosen.
"My first reaction to the script was that I loved it," Josh tells WHO at the Sydney premiere of the film. "The dialogue is incredible and Justin's a very talented writer.
Mike Faist as Art, Zendaya as Tashi and Josh O'Connor as Patrick in Challengers.
Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures
What is Challengers about?
The narrative of Challengers unfolds in a non-linear fashion, weaving together multiple timelines to paint a rich tapestry of interconnected lives and shared destinies. From the early days of Patrick and Art’s friendship to Tashi’s meteoric rise and the ensuing love triangles that redefine their relationships.
As the film builds towards its climactic tennis match, set 13 years after Tashi first enters their lives, the stakes are higher than ever. It's not just a game; it's a showdown of emotions, ambitions, and the unbreakable bonds that tie these three characters together. And at the centre of it all is Tashi, a force of nature who refuses to apologize for her game on and off the court.
Zendaya stars as Tashi in Challengers.
Niko Tavernise / Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures
Is Challengers based on a true story?
No, Challengers is not based on a true story. However, Zendaya's tennis skills showcased in the film are authentic. She dedicated three months to intensive training under the guidance of former tennis professional Brad Gilbert, who also acted as a consultant for the movie, to prepare for her role as Tashi Duncan.
Josh O'Connor also stars in the film.
Metro Goldwyn Mayer Pictures
When is Challengers out?
Challengers is set to premiere in Australia on April 18, 2024.
At this stage, the film is only available to watch at Cinemas, but we'll keep you updated when it reaches streaming platforms!
Madison ScottMadi is a senior digital producer for WHO and loves all things fashion and pop culture. If she’s not reading a new book, she’s probably scrolling aimlessly on Pinterest or window shopping.