When the trailer for the upcoming Zendaya starrer and Luca Guadagnino-helmed romantic sports drama Challengers (2024) was released six months back, one particular sequence caused considerable social media buzz. We are talking about the lovemaking scene between the three main leads before the narrative time skip, where they eventually develop an increasingly convoluted dynamic.
Several jaws dropped, that’s for sure.
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The actress’ intriguing, near-mysterious depiction of Tashi Duncan has raised speculations about the overarching plot, but that one scene became the talk of the town for weeks to come. The concept visibly thrilled netizens, as some started creating lighthearted memes to tease the Dune alum’s partner, Tom Holland. During an interview tackling questions about that specific scene, the singer-actress disclosed her preparation tactics for what might be her most risqué role ever.
Zendaya And Her Co-stars’ Preparation For The Steamy Scenes In Challengers
The concoction of a tense love triangle at the core of an equally intense sports drama premise brings forth a complex storyline in Challengers (2024).
In Luca Guadagnino‘s film, Zendaya plays former tennis prodigy Tashi Duncan, the wife and coach of a renowned Grand Slam tennis champion, Art Donaldson (played by Mike Faist). The latter signs up for a challenger event and ends up competing against his former best friend and Tashi’s ex-boyfriend, Patrick (Josh O’Connor).
Intimate sequences are interspersed with an intricate narrative that explores the romantic and competitive dynamic between three characters on and off the court—at least from what the trailer suggests. There’s often a sense of challenge and commitment involved in the execution of s*xual scenes. As such, actors often utilize techniques to prepare for such sequences, facilitated by trust and comfort between the co-stars and performed under the guidance of intimacy coordinators.
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Zendaya revealed the process she underwent to make the experience comfortable and the execution authentic. She told Total Film magazine (via The Direct) the following:
“Just being committed to the work, and holding space for each other, and being patient with each other, and just being really helpful, and just being in those rooms, and just talking sh—t through. I think it ultimately led to being in a space where we could just be like, ‘All right, let’s play.'”
She further added:
“I felt like I was, you know, filling the role of a leader, but also being led in many ways by their performances and how they show up to work every day.”
The three leads’ harmonious collaborative spirit and consideration for one another enabled them to perform such challenging scenes. Their efforts and sizzling chemistry are well-demonstrated in the trailer and will eventually be reflected in the film’s release.
Challengers (2024) Is Zendaya’s Foray Into A More “Grown-up” Role
In an interview with Elle, the Euphoria alum delved into her departure from the roles she is most frequently known for. Embodying a femme fatale-esque character in Challengers (2024) allowed her to be a “leading lady” in a more mature premise. A few may argue that Zendaya dipped her feet into the waters of darker, mature themes through Sam Levinson’s HBO teen drama. However, it still centered itself around the lives of convoluted high schoolers.
Embracing Challengers as a professional pursuit in her filmography shows her nuanced evolution. The intense and intimate nature of the sports drama shows her in a different light than what fans are used to but have undoubtedly awaited. Talking of her foray into what she describes as a “grown-up” role, the actress claimed:
“I felt like it was a good step into a more—I guess you could say—‘grown-up’ role and into that next phase. It was a … bit scary to take on, which I think is a good feeling. To be like, ‘Ooh, can I do this?’ You could run from that feeling and stay safe and comfortable, or you can go, ‘You know what, f—ck it.’”
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Her on-screen allure and cut-throat demeanor from the trailer inform the audience what they need to know about her role. It may have been an intimidating venture to step into. However, Zendaya realized she had to embark on the journey rather than confining herself to her comfort zone. And it’s working. The premise has turned heads, sparked curiosity, and showcased her authentic progression as an actress.
Beyond memes and jokes about what her partner may think of the endeavor, the professional step to commit to Luca Guadagnino’s film proves that she’s ready for the next step in her career.
Challengers is slated to be released on April 26, 2024.
