This is a hard movie for me to grade. I didn’t particularly enjoy it because of the subject matter—drama/romance. Also the story is told in a non-linear fashion, which makes finding Peetimes particularly challenging and makes it harder for me to enjoy watching the movie while working. However, I recognize that it was expertly crafted and executed. The writing, editing, directing, acting, are all top-notch.
Direction
Luca Guadagnino also directed Call Me by Your Name, Bones and All, Suspiria, and A Bigger Splash. And from what I can see they are all character-driven dramas that feature great acting performances. Clearly, Luca knows how to help actors express their talent. I probably won’t look forward to watching his next movie, but at least I know the quality will be exceptional, even if it’s not my cup of tea.
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Acting
All of the actors were great and the script demands a wide range of expression from the characters. Each of the three main characters delivers. Both male leads had, I think, a more challenging character to work with because they have to express joy and happiness in some scenes, and frustration, self-doubt in others. Zendaya’s character is more monotonous. Come to think of it, I can’t remember Zendaya doing any comedy. She is in some comedic scenes in the Spiderman movies, but if she’s funny it’s always sarcastic humor. Never real joy. I’d love to see her challenge herself and accept a role that might have a little levity.
Script
More than anything else, I’m impressed with the script. Justin Kuritzkes doesn’t appear to have a great deal of experience, but you would never know by watching this movie. The script feels like something that was crafted with care. Early in the movie I found the non-linear storytelling to be a little off-putting, but it grew on me and by the end it really brought the ending into focus. It would be interesting to see a linear edit of this movie, but I think this might have been the better choice.
Conclusion
If this were a genre I enjoyed then I’m sure I’d have no problem giving this movie at least an A. This is what makes grading movies so difficult. I appreciate the quality, but I didn’t enjoy the movie. If you are a fan of romantic-dramas then I have no doubt you’ll enjoy this movie.
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Grade: B+
About The Peetimes: The most challenging genre to do Peetimes for is mysteries. The second are non-linear movies like this one. I have about two dozen potential Peetimes but I could only use three of them. The movie moves back and forth through time, and the character-building is crucial. The 1st and 2nd Peetimes are really good. The 3rd is for emergencies only.
There are no extra scenes during, or after, the end credits of Challengers.
| Rated: | (R) Some Sexual Content | Language Throughout | Graphic Nudity |
| Genres: | Drama, Romance, Sport |
| Starring: | Zendaya, Mike Faist, Josh O’Connor |
| Director: | Luca Guadagnino |
| Writer(s): | Justin Kuritzkes |
| Language: | English |
| Country: | United States |
Plot
Tashi, a former tennis prodigy turned coach is married to a champion on a losing streak. Her strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face off against his former best friend and Tashi’s former boy…
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