REVIEW #351 Challengers (2024)

The lives of three talented tennis players become intertwined through lust, love and talent but what brings them together, can soon tear them apart.

Challengers certainly shows ambition with its impressive writing, strong performances and captivating cinematography. Telling the story of three vastly contrasting characters whilst illustrating the conflict that can arise through love and also the coldness that comes with a burning passion for winning. The nonlinear approach to the story works well and the transitions are executed really nicely, with the cinematography playing a huge part in that, with it being one of the more notable aspects of the movie. The soundtrack, combined with fast paced cutting helped deliver that tense atmosphere that always surrounded the three protagonists. There was always that sense of anxiety and discomfort which is undoubtedly projected from the two male protagonist, art in particular, as they both contend for Tashi. Zendaya’s character is certainly not a likeable one, at least not after the first act anyway but there are traits from all three that leave the audience unsure of who to root for, emphasising that sense of unease but with that unease, comes excitement and you can’t help but be on the edge of your seat as the scenes unfold. I actually enjoyed Challengers more than I thought I would, it’s captivating, exciting and humorous at times too and as I’ve mentioned above, the big driving force is the performances and the cinematography which help deliver that atmosphere for the audience! Would certainly recommend. 

Overall (8.2/10)

Thanks for reading.

Callan

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