“Rivals”, review: Zendaya’s sexiest film

Rivals (Contenders) has finally arrived in theaters. This film is a new work Luca Guadagninodirector of films such as Call me by your name, Sighs or To the Bone: Bones and All. On this occasion, the Italian decided to get closer to the world of professional tennis. Though that’s really just context, as it’s about a tumultuous love triangle starring Zendaya, Mike Feist And Josh O’Connor.

The film focuses on Tashi Duncan, a young WTA prospect who is aiming to become the greatest talent of her generation. However, a serious injury cut short his path to fame. After that she becomes a coach Art Donaldson, who he will marry and who he will take to the top. Due to a bad streak, they have to participate in the Challenger tournament, the second lowest category, to regain their confidence. There they meet Patrick Zweigex best friend Art, who did not reach the level that was expected of him in his youth. However, this collision of paths will force the three to relive their complicated and passionate past.

From sports drama to romance

Rivals It all starts out like a typical sports drama. Fans of this type of film will really enjoy the first half hour. A portrait of the contradictions, dreams and pressures of those who want to touch fame with their own hands. The first part of the film is especially interesting for tennis fans, since there really aren’t that many good films in this genre. Are Borg McEnroe or recent Williams methodin addition to Match item (if this can be considered a tennis movie). But other than that, the field is sparsely planted.

It is noted that the screenwriter Rivals, Justin Kuritzkes, has done extensive research on the course and has documented numerous stories of professional tennis players. A fairly well-understood work, although, yes, it is also very accessible to those who know nothing about this world. But, as soon as the foundation was laid, it was as if it had been warmed up, Guadagnino starts to play. And the film gradually moves into his territory.

Tennis is never far away, but the love triangle story is stealing the spotlight by the minute. And he does this because the director has an innate talent for bringing out the sexiest, most sensual and explosive side of every situation. Without even needing a single sex scene, Rivals It builds in temperature and tension as the relationships between its characters become more and more toxic. Everything runs like a well-oiled clock. This is a very interesting, twisted and seductive romantic drama.

Structure in three sets

And one of the reasons why Rivals This is its narrative structure. Far from telling the story linearly, Guadagnino And Kuritskes They choose to time jump. Three different times are set, like three sets. The main one is the real Challenger tournament between Art And Patrick. But through him, two different pasts are narrated, which add layers and layers to this feast of secrets, passions and disappointments. The impulses of youth, the restraint of maturity, the hidden instincts of tormented souls…

Beyond division Rivals In three cases, the director and screenwriter also design their film based on points of view. And this is where things really move like a tennis match, a genius moment of proposal. In a complicated love triangle, there is always one character who takes the lead and feels invincible. Exactly the same as in a real meeting. Tennis is not just about passing the ball over the net, it is about feeling what is happening. Mental strength, confidence, dominance over the enemy. That’s what they do Tashi, Art And Patrick with your relationship.

The film jumps from one point of view to another depending on who has the upper hand. This is a very equal duel that makes Rivals something hypnotic from start to finish. Everything is a sequence of shots until someone misses or hits a forehand winner. And after that start again. In this regard, the writing, directing and editing are outstanding.

Chemistry that transfers to the screen

According to this basic premise, the oil that makes the machine move is its operating agents. And in this case, the bet couldn’t have been better. Zendaya, Faist And O’Connor They exude amazing chemistry in both the most romantic and erotic scenes and the most intense and dramatic moments. Every look they give each other carries an exact answer because they understand their characters perfectly. These are three intuitive performances that build on each other. Although obviously she’s the queen of the party.

Zendaya It’s magnetic again. She once again proves that she is one of the most talented actresses of our time. He may still not have the enviable filmography of the industry’s biggest stars. But he is always outstanding, and his future remains one of the most promising in all of Hollywood. In the same film, she is able to be vulnerable and sad as only she knows how. But he can also act as a diva to whom you can surrender yourself, overwhelmed. He masters every register with amazing ease. If you also have a copy of the rebel and trickster Patrick from O’Connor and serene and sad Art FaistThere’s no way this couldn’t end well.

Guadagnino presents us with a vibrant tennis match where love is on the line. The most toxic meeting, in which there is no one good, and true desires devour appearances. On a narrative and visual level, it offers some of the most ingenious ideas in tennis, accompanied by a soundtrack. Trent Reznor it fits the film like a glove. And above all, it has three gorgeous and charming main characters led by Zendaya in one of his fullest roles. WITH Rivalsthe director is raising a new Grand Slam.