Zendaya takes the lead in Luca Guadagnino’s highly anticipated film, ‘Challengers,’ which is set to make its debut at this year’s Venice Film Festival. The movie, scheduled to be screened out of competition, will be released to the general public in September. Joining Zendaya are Josh O’Connor from ‘The Crown’ and Mike Faist from ‘West Side Story’ in a captivating love triangle that has ignited the internet.
The 80th annual Venice Film Festival will also showcase other notable films, including Yorgos Lanthimos’ sci-fi creation ‘Poor Things,’ Matteo Garrone’s dramatic masterpiece ‘Io Capitano,’ and Pablo Larrain’s ‘El Conde.’
In ‘Challengers,’ Zendaya portrays Tashi Duncan, an up-and-coming tennis sensation entangled in a romantic affair with her best friends and fellow players, Art (Faist) and Patrick (O’Connor). Initially involved with Patrick, she ultimately marries Art, resulting in a complex love triangle. When her promising tennis career is abruptly halted by an injury, she becomes Art’s coach. However, fate brings the former best friends back together years later when they are forced to confront each other on the court. Last month, a trailer for this romantic sports comedy set to Rihanna’s “S&M” was released, hinting at a steamy movie experience.
The film will premiere on August 30, marking the opening of the festival. Following the premiere, ‘Challengers’ will hit theaters in the United States through MGM and Amazon Studios, while Warner Bros. Pictures will handle international distribution. The screenplay was penned by Justin Kuritzkes, and the film is produced by Amy Pascal, Zendaya, Rachel O’Connor, and the director himself. Guadagnino gained international recognition with the release of ‘Call Me by Your Name,’ starring Timothée Chalamet and Armie Hammer, based on André Aciman’s novel. He further solidified his reputation with the horror remake ‘Suspiria’ and the romantic horror ‘Bones and All,’ establishing himself as one of today’s most captivating directors.
Image via MGM
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For fans eagerly anticipating ‘Challengers,’ a sports drama led by Zendaya, here’s a tennis-themed romantic comedy to enjoy in the meantime.
Guadagnino and Venice Film Festival
Expressing his excitement, Guadagnino stated, “I am thrilled to present my latest film, ‘Challengers,’ at the Venice Film Festival. It is a bold and modern story of youthful energy, love, and power. Zendaya, Josh, and Mike bring a fresh and unique energy that audiences have never seen before.” He added, “As a filmmaker, it is a dream come true, and I am grateful to Alberto and the entire Venice family for recognizing this film.” Guadagnino returns to Venice after his competition entry last year with ‘Bones and All.’ Festival Artistic Director Alberto Barbera praised Guadagnino as “one of the few Italian directors who effortlessly works with both Italian and foreign actors, consistently achieving outstanding results.” Barbera also noted that Guadagnino fearlessly explores themes of love, friendship, and male rivalry, delivering an enthralling and emotionally resonant film filled with irony, sensuality, and goodwill.
‘Challengers’ will hit theaters on September 15. Be sure to check out the trailer below: [link to the trailer]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about romantic drama
When will ‘Challengers’ premiere at the Venice Film Festival?
‘Challengers’ will premiere at the Venice Film Festival on August 30th.
Who are the main actors in ‘Challengers’?
Zendaya takes the lead role in ‘Challengers’ along with Josh O’Connor from ‘The Crown’ and Mike Faist from ‘West Side Story.’
What is the genre of ‘Challengers’?
‘Challengers’ is a romantic drama film.
When will ‘Challengers’ be released in theaters?
‘Challengers’ will be released in theaters on September 15th.
Who is the director of ‘Challengers’?
‘Challengers’ is directed by Luca Guadagnino.
What is the storyline of ‘Challengers’?
‘Challengers’ follows the story of Tashi Duncan, an aspiring tennis player, who becomes involved in a love triangle with her fellow players, Art and Patrick. It explores themes of love, rivalry, and friendship.
Will ‘Challengers’ be available internationally?
Yes, ‘Challengers’ will be released internationally through Warner Bros. Pictures.
Who are the producers of ‘Challengers’?
The producers of ‘Challengers’ are Amy Pascal, Zendaya, Rachel O’Connor, and Luca Guadagnino.
What is the runtime of ‘Challengers’?
The runtime of ‘Challengers’ has not been specified in the provided information.
More about romantic drama
- Venice Film Festival
- Luca Guadagnino
- Zendaya
- Josh O’Connor
- Mike Faist
- Warner Bros. Pictures
- Amy Pascal
- [Trailer for ‘Challengers’](insert link to the trailer, if available)
1 comment
omg luca guadagnino is back with another masterpiece! his films always have such an unique vibe. i’m ready for the love triangle and the tennis drama in Challengers!