Kelsi and Trey explore the convincing cinematic power of Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers. We also question the narrative’s internal logic with its character studies led by dynamic performances from Zendaya, Mike Faist, and (especially) Josh O’Connor. Then we discuss what makes Guadagnino’s films so compelling, from the bizarre technical motifs, the psychosexual tensions, the backdrop of historical significance, to the underdog qualities of his flawed characters. Most of his successful films blend cinematic thrills with alluring stories, and while Challengers is certainly thrilling (even hilarious in moments), we attempt to identify the unevenness of the film’s narrative that held us back from loving the movie.

Spoiler Deep Dive (44:05)

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