Here’s the trailer for Luca Guadagnino’s “Challengers,” which is being released on September 15th. It’s definitely not what the director’s fans expected. The film looks like his most commercial effort.
A note of caution: the trailer seems to be giving away a good chunk of the plot. I really don’t get why studios are still doing this. Most audiences don’t want the entire film spoiled for them.
Regardless, the film stars the trio of Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist. “Challengers,” as mentioned, is directed by Guadagnino, based on a script by Justin Kuritzkes. Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross are scoring this one.
The story revolves around a young tennis prodigy (Zendaya) who is the object of affection of two male players (Faist and O’Connor). Then she hurts her knee, leading to her settling down, marrying Faist’s character and choosing a life as a coach. Obviously, years later, the other guy still wants her.
It’s not that far fetched to believe that “Challengers” will most likely premiere at Venice. I had recently read in an Italian outlet that it might be screening out of competition.
I’m not sure where I currently stand with Guadagnino. I liked his first three breakout films (“I Am Love,” “A Bigger Splash” and “Call Me By Your Name”), was puzzled by his remake of “Suspiria” (which I should definitely give a rewatch sometime soon) and was disappointed by last year’s “Bones and All.”
As mentioned in previous articles, Guadagnino has been very busy of late, “Challengers” is set for release this September. He’s currently shooting “Queer.” His Audrey Hepburn biopic could also be in production this fall. Then there’s his “Scarface” remake which has a screenplay penned by the Coen Brothers. Guadagnino has also mentioned a “Call Me By Your Name” being in the works with Armie Hammer and Timothee Chalamet possibly returning to their respective roles.