Renowned filmmaker Luca Guadagnino, known for "Call Me By Your Name" and "Dune," collaborates with Zendaya in his latest project, a tennis-themed romantic comedy titled "Challengers."
Set to release this autumn, the film features an exceptional ensemble cast and is poised to continue Guadagnino's streak of award-winning productions. In 2017, his work on "Call Me By Your Name," starring Timothée Chalamet, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture.
Having since directed a remake of the 1977 giallo horror "Suspiria" and reunited with Chalamet for the cannibal drama "Bones And All," Guadagnino's subsequent ventures have yet to garner the same level of critical acclaim as "Call Me By Your Name."
Could "Challengers" be the film to shift that narrative? Below, we provide an overview of Zendaya's upcoming movie, including its release date, plot details, cast information, and more.
Release Date for "Challengers"
Initially scheduled for September 2023, Guadagnino's film will now hit theaters on April 26, 2024. The movie will first make its debut at the Venice Film Festival on August 30. While a streaming date has not been confirmed, it is noteworthy that the film will bypass theatrical release in France and go directly to Prime Video.
Plot of "Challengers"
"Challengers" is characterized as a sports-oriented romantic comedy, but given Guadagnino's distinctive cinematic style and the officially released stills, it's likely to incorporate elements of relationship dynamics, personal identity, and sexual tension.
Zendaya, known for her roles in "Dune" and the MCU's "Spider-Man," portrays a former tennis prodigy who transitions into a coaching role. In this capacity, she transforms her current boyfriend into a professional player, setting the stage for a "friendly" championship match against her former flame and his former best friend.
According to the official synopsis, Zendaya's character undertakes this endeavor to break her husband's losing streak.
While the plot's specifics remain under wraps, Guadagnino has previously described the story as "sexy and fun." Zendaya, who is also producing the project, reportedly underwent three months of training with former professional tennis player Brad Gilbert to prepare for her role.
Additionally, Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails will once again collaborate with Atticus Ross to compose the film's music, continuing a partnership that began during the making of "Bones and All" in 2022. The duo is acclaimed for their memorable soundtracks for projects such as "The Social Network," Pixar's "Soul," and HBO's "Watchmen" TV series.
Cast of "Challengers"
Zendaya takes center stage in "Challengers," portraying Tashi Duncan, a former tennis star who has transitioned into coaching other players. Her on-screen husband, Art Donaldson, is played by Mike Faist, recognized for his role in Steven Spielberg's 2021 adaptation of "West Side Story."
Completing the film's core cast is Josh O'Connor as Patrick, Tashi's former flame and Art's ex-best friend. O'Connor is known for his portrayal of a young Prince Charles in seasons three and four of "The Crown."
Beyond these main characters, Guadagnino held an open casting call for actors to portray tennis players, extras, and stand-ins during the film's Boston shoot. As a result, Zendaya, O'Connor, and Faist won't be the sole faces gracing the screen in "Challengers."
Trailer for "Challengers"
The first trailer for "Challengers" debuted in June 2023, offering audiences a glimpse into Guadagnino's new narrative, accompanied by Rihanna's track "S&M." The preview showcases Tashi's ascent in professional tennis, followed by a shift in focus due to an injury, leading her to concentrate on the behind-the-scenes aspects of the sport.
Meanwhile, a love triangle unfolds involving Tashi, Art, and Patrick, culminating in a new tournament central to the film's plot. The trailer provides a tantalizing preview of what "Challengers" has in store.
