‘Challengers’ Redefines Sexy in Cinema 

When the trailer for ‘Challengers’ hit the Internet, there was one scene that captured everyone’s attention: the threesome. The idea of Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist in what seemed like the hottest s*x scene in recent memory sent fans into a frenzy. This frenzy only intensified as the film’s release got delayed multiple times due to an actor’s strike, leaving fans to speculate eagerly.

So, imagine the surprise when the film finally premiered with Luca Guadagnino’s biggest box office opening, despite not featuring any s*x scenes at all. Yet, it still managed to deliver on its promise of being one of the most sensually thrilling American films in recent memory. This raises an interesting question: how does a movie create such a sexy atmosphere without showing any actual s*x?

Also Read: What Happens at The End of ‘Challengers’? Explained

From the moment they meet, Tashi (Zendaya) exerts control over Patrick (O’Connor) and Art (Faist). They were all tennis prodigies in their teens, and Tashi, on her way to stardom, captivates them. She knows she has them wrapped around her finger and enjoys playing them against each other, setting the standard that their worth is defined by their tennis skills. But beyond the court, their competition spills into their personal lives. Everything revolves around tennis for Tashi, and she sees it as a measure of character.

This dynamic is epitomized in the threesome scene, where intense kissing substitutes for full-on s*x. It’s a reflection of the trio’s relationship: Tashi manipulates them with the promise of s*x, while Patrick and Art jeopardize their friendship. Tashi enjoys the power play, finding satisfaction in their s*xual submission. For Zendaya, Tashi revels in teasing the boys for their privilege as white men. But what drives Patrick and Art to participate in this game?

While Tashi thrives on competition, Patrick and Art are motivated by their desire for each other, channelled into rivalry. Their constant one-upmanship, even in Tashi’s absence, resembles the tension between Edward and Jacob in ‘Twilight.’ Mundane scenes, like sharing churros, take on a s*xual undertone through their interactions. Guadagnino’s exploration of hidden desires is subtle, buried beneath the surface of their friendship.

In the film’s climax, the final tennis match between Patrick and Art serves as a metaphorical s*x scene, with grunts and sweat replacing physical intimacy. Guadagnino’s direction elevates the actors to godlike figures, fetishizing their bodies in both platonic and sexual contexts. The film’s tension builds to a crescendo, metaphorically representing power and codependency.

By refraining from explicit s*x scenes, ‘Challengers’ maintains the pressure of s*xual tension throughout. Tennis becomes a metaphor for the characters’ relationships, imbuing the film with a deep sense of intimacy and repression. Guadagnino and screenwriter Justin Kuritzkes cleverly explore the eroticism inherent in the sport, creating a scintillating film experience.

While depictions of sexual activity have their place in cinema, ‘Challengers’ proves that sometimes, it’s more tantalizing to tease the audience. Guadagnino’s playful direction and Kuritzke’s script intelligently probe into the characters’ desires, revealing that they don’t need sex to satisfy their cravings—they have tennis.

– Farheen Ali