Review: Challengers is flawless and so much more than just a sports film

Emmy-winning US actor Zendaya continues to dominate the big screen this year, with Dune: Part Two still in cinemas. 

And now, she's switching codes with another offering - Challengers.

She plays a top tennis player, weaving her magic on and off the court. 

Swapping the sand dunes of Arrakis for the astroturf of centre court, can Zendaya do no wrong?

No is the correct answer, no she cannot.

Now she teams up with Oscar-nominated Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino for a sports film.

But make no mistake, Challengers is soooo much more than just a sports film.

So yes, Challengers is as much about the powerplay on the sidelines as top tennis player Tashi smashes her way to becoming one of the greats of the game.

One love to three love, Tashi plays the field as well as the court.

She brings her A-game to both, worshipping her every match point, fellow players, and lifelong mates Patrick (Josh O'Connor) and Art (Mike Faist).

The boys soon find themselves playing a different game altogether - against each other.

And the trophy? Well only she knows how this game ends.

Fast forward, after a career-ending injury, Tashi turns her drive to win from playing to coaching.

And with Grand Slam performances from all three of these young actors, the inventive kinetic cinematography and pulsating electrifying score from Oscar-winners Atticus Ross and Trent Reznor, this is a Game Set Match situation.

Challengers is a bolter of a film and a flawless five-star watch.