Challengers trailer starring Zendaya is breaking the Internet. So, what to expect from the movie?
The trailer for Zendaya's new movie, Challengers dropped on Wednesday
The Internet has been abuzz with anticipation since the release of the trailer for Zendaya's upcoming movie, Challengers, on Wednesday (June 21).
Plot and hype
Set in the competitive world of professional tennis, the film revolves around the character of Tashi Duncan, portrayed by Zendaya, who transitions from being a player to a coach. Joining her are West Side Story star Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor from The Crown, in significant roles.
I’ll shut up about Challengers in a minute but Tashi’s hair is TELLING A STORY.
— this barbie hosts ✨The Afternoon Special✨ (@hiimbobbi) June 20, 2023
Hair, makeup, and costuming don’t just fill out the world of the film but it also has its own story tell about who a character is and can reveal SO MUCH (in some cases better than words can). pic.twitter.com/UoWVqu8ZCm
challengers trailer hasn’t even been out for 24 hours yet and tashi already has my heart like that’s baby boo pic.twitter.com/cfmvJR9h81
— ؘSELDAYA PR MANAGER (@dayasouvenir) June 21, 2023
The trailer's closing scene, where Zendaya's character Tashi is shown sharing intimate moments with the male leads, Art (O'Connor) and Patrick (Faist), in a hotel room after a tennis tournament, has generated considerable excitement. This provocative scene sets an intense tone that audiences can expect from the movie.
What to expect
The anticipation for the film is further heightened by the fact that it is helmed by director Luca Guadagnino, renowned for his work on Call Me by Your Name. Challengers has the potential to be another remarkable addition to Guadagnino's filmography, given its successful completion despite challenges faced during production.
Guadagnino's most recent work, Bones and All, which premiered in 2022, faced controversy due to plot similarities with the abuse and cannibalism allegations surrounding former cast-member Armie Hammer. However, Challengers appears to be on a different trajectory, capturing attention and building anticipation.
In an interview with Variety in October, Guadagnino revealed that Zendaya underwent three months of training under the guidance of former tennis pro Brad Gilbert to prepare for her role.
The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on August 11, 2023.