DALLAS —
CHALLENGERS
This is the movie everyone's talking about: 1) because Zendaya stars in it and 2) because a three-way romantic encounter is teased in the trailer. Let me say right off the top, it's a sloppy beer-fueled make-out 'sesh' when they were teens, and it doesn't go as far as you might anticipate. Glad we got that out of the way!
Now to the rest of the movie. Tennis buddies played by Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor ("The Crown") share an infatuation with Zendaya's character as teens. One dates her then grows out of favor. The other ends up marrying her. An injury has taken her off the circuit, so she coaches hubby who's in a rut. And guess who he meets across the net as he tries to rebuild his confidence at a lower-level tournament?
"Challengers" is directed by Luca Guadagnino, best known for the Oscar-nominated "Call Me By Your Name." This is not nearly as good a film. Zandaya is incredibly watchable, and the tennis looks authentic, thanks to some digital effects. But the timeline jumps all over the place to the point of distraction. I still enjoyed the sly gamesmanship between the guys, though. And I'm not talking tennis.
(Amazon/MGM. Rated R. Running Time 2 hrs. 11 mins. In Theaters Only)
UNSUNG HERO
"Unsung Hero" tells the true story of a family raised up by hope and faith through really tough times. And if you like Contemporary Christian Music, you already know the characters: like Joel and Luke Smallbone of the popular duo 'for King + Country.' They're little boys in the movie which was Luke's idea. Joel co-wrote, co-directed and stars as the dad, David Smallbone, a music promoter in their native Australia in the 90s. He lost everything, so he brought his young family to America for a fresh start. While dad began a family business doing chores, it was mom who led the kids emotionally, making the hardships seem like 'adventures.' Eventually, the eldest daughter Rebecca's beautiful voice draws attention and flips their fate. She will become Christian music star Rebecca St. James.
So, who is the 'unsung hero' behind the movie's title? It's mom, of course! And it's no coincidence the film is coming out as Mother's Day approaches. It's lovely, safe for all ages and proves that the power of faith and family can be a driving force
(Lionsgate. Rated PG. Running Time 1 hr. 52 mins. In Theaters Only)
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