“Challengers” Hits Theaters: A Romp Through Love, Lust, Tennis, and Fashion
Luca Guadagnino’s highly anticipated film “Challengers” has finally hit theaters this week after being delayed by the actor’s strike last fall. The movie, which stars Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist as racket prodigies reunited by fate and tournaments, is a whirlwind of competitions, emotions, and of course, fabulous costumes designed by Jonathan Anderson.
Aesthetics have always played a crucial role in Guadagnino’s films, but “Challengers” marks the first time he has collaborated with a single fashion designer, Jonathan Anderson. The Styles crew couldn’t help but have feelings about the unique partnership.
While some critics noted that the clothes in the film didn’t necessarily scream “JWA,” others praised the pop-art aesthetic and the overall cultural impact of the movie. With sexy screenshots and a buzzworthy press tour featuring Zendaya in tennis-inspired ensembles, “Challengers” is expected to be a cultural hit, if not a box office one.
The film’s wardrobe choices also reflect a sensuality reset, influenced by the current social unease with touch and the experience of Covid. Will we all be wearing dolphin shorts this summer, inspired by the film’s fashion choices?
Celebrity stylist Law Roach has even called on fans to wear “tenniscore” to their “Challengers” screenings, pushing the boundaries of fashion interpretation. Whether audiences will embrace tennis skirts and polos remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure – “Challengers” is not just a movie, it’s a fashion statement.
