“Challengers” entered the cinematic arena with a racket swing of critical acclaim, generating considerable buzz around its intriguing premise and star-studded cast, led by Zendaya. However, not all that glitters is gold on the court. Before you decide where to watch Challengers, it’s crucial to understand what you’re signing up for beyond the hype.
Unpacking the Plot of “Challengers”
At its core, “Challengers” orbits around the complex relationships of three individuals inextricably linked by tennis and tangled desires. We meet Art (Mike Faist) and Patrick (Josh O’Connor), childhood friends whose bond is tested by the arrival of Tashi (Zendaya), a captivating tennis prodigy. The film hints at a steamy past, notably a bedroom scene that has already become a point of discussion, involving all three characters in a web of attraction and observation. As their junior tennis days fade, their paths diverge, only to converge again later in life, setting the stage for a high-stakes rematch.
Critical Acclaim vs. Audience Expectation: A Double Fault?
While critics have largely served up positive reviews for “Challengers,” approaching it with sky-high expectations might lead to disappointment, as it did for some viewers. The film employs a non-linear narrative, jumping between past and present timelines with what feels like excessive frequency. This stylistic choice, instead of adding depth, paradoxically slows down the narrative momentum and introduces unnecessary confusion. By the time the anticipated climactic tennis match between Art and Patrick arrives, the storyline feels like it has veered off course.
Tennis Credibility and Cinematographic Innovation
To its credit, the tennis sequences in “Challengers” achieve a level of believability, thanks to the expertise of Brad Gilbert, a former player and commentator who contributed to the project. Gilbert even makes a cameo as Art’s coach. Despite neither the actors nor director Luca Guadagnino having prior tennis backgrounds, the creative team devised innovative filming techniques. They utilized racket handle swings on court, with CGI adding rackets and balls in post-production. Zendaya herself has described her tennis portrayal as a series of carefully choreographed movements.
The cinematography pushes boundaries, employing shots from below the court and drone perspectives. However, this visual experimentation occasionally crosses into annoyance, such as shots from the tennis ball’s perspective, which feels more distracting than immersive.
The Enigma of Tashi: Motivation Lost in Translation?
Guadagnino, known for exploring emotional nuances as seen in “Call Me by Your Name,” seems to miss the mark with Tashi’s character. Initially, Tashi is presented as drawn to both Patrick and Art. We learn about her career-ending knee injury and her vicarious living through Art’s successful career. Yet, years into her marriage with Art, she still entertains Patrick’s attention. The film leaves Tashi’s motivations murky. Is it unresolved romantic tension? Is she strategically aligning with the potentially more successful player? Or is it simply a manipulative streak? Tashi remains an enigma, and this opacity muddles the emotional core of the film, compounded by an ambiguous ending. Ultimately, the script, not the performances of Zendaya, Faist, and O’Connor who are all individually and collectively compelling, becomes the weak link.
Finding “Challengers”: Where Can You Watch It?
Now, for the crucial question: where to watch Challengers? As a recent theatrical release, your first port of call will likely be movie theaters. Check your local cinema listings for showtimes.
For those preferring to watch from home, you’ll need to consider streaming, rental, or purchase options. Given its recent release, “Challengers” is not yet available on major streaming platforms. However, keep an eye on services like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Hulu, as these are common destinations for new releases after their theatrical run. You may also find it available for digital rental or purchase on platforms such as Amazon, iTunes, YouTube, and Google Play Movies & TV.
[It’s advisable to check local streaming and rental services in your region for the most up-to-date availability.]
Final Verdict: To Watch or Not to Watch?
“Challengers” presents a visually interesting film with strong performances, particularly from its leads. However, its confusing narrative structure and underdeveloped central character may detract from the overall experience. While the tennis action is credible and the cinematography is innovative, these elements are overshadowed by script issues. If you’re a Zendaya fan or intrigued by the premise, “Challengers” might be worth watching, especially if you appreciate visually driven films and are less concerned with a tightly woven plot. Just be aware of its narrative shortcomings before deciding where to watch Challengers and spending your time and money.
