Everette Hamlette

"Challengers" serves up a mixed bag of emotions, both on and off the court. Zendaya shines as Tashi Duncan, bringing depth and charisma to her role, while Josh O'Connor delivers a solid performance as the conflicted Patrick. Their chemistry adds a layer of tension to the film's tangled web of relationships. However, despite the strong cast, "Challengers" struggles to maintain its footing. The intro music feels amateurish, the transitions are rushed, and there are more quick shots and duplicate scenes than necessary. Unnecessary zoom-ins and jump cuts further detract from the viewing experience. Yet, amidst the rough edges, there are moments of brilliance. The cinematography during the tiebreak scenes is flawless, drawing viewers in with its intensity. Unfortunately, the repetitive music and overly long runtime weigh the film down, making it feel like a marathon rather than a sprint. Overall, "Challengers" delivers a solid story with standout performances, but its shortcomings prevent it from reaching its full potential. If you're a tennis drama aficionado with time to spare, it's worth a watch. Otherwise, you might want to wait for the highlights reel.