Battle of the Sexes, a captivating sports biopic released in 2017, continues to make waves in the film community, hailed by viewers as “a brilliant film which will stay with you.” Directed by the dynamic duo Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton, with a script by Simon Beaufoy, the film recounts the infamous 1973 tennis showdown between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs.
The film stars Emma Stone and Steve Carell in lead roles, supported by a strong ensemble cast that includes Elisabeth Shue, Sarah Silverman, Andrea Riseborough, Austin Stowell, Bill Pullman, Natalie Morales, and Eric Christian Olsen. This marks the second collaboration between Stone and Carell after their successful pairing in Crazy, Stupid, Love, further enhancing their on-screen chemistry. Both actors received Golden Globe nominations for their performances, being recognized in the categories of Best Actor and Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.
Despite a production budget of $25 million, the film’s box office performance fell short, grossing only $18.6 million worldwide. However, critical reception has been largely positive, with an impressive 84% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics have praised Stone and Carell’s engaging performances, calling the film “a crowd-pleaser” and highlighting its ability to balance humor and emotional depth.
Emma Stone shared her insights on the role during a 2017 interview, discussing the bravery of Billie Jean King, who played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s rights in sports. “It took an insane amount of bravery. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, and it’s our duty to keep those messages alive,” Stone reflected.
Audience reactions have echoed the critics’ sentiments, with one viewer declaring it “sensational” and emphasizing its importance beyond the tennis court as a story intertwining sports and social justice. Another audience member noted the film’s excellent technical execution, from writing to design, making it a recommendation for everyone.
Fans can catch this engaging drama streaming on Disney+, a film that successfully sheds light on a pivotal moment in sports history while also addressing broader social issues. The enduring relevance of the story and its impactful performances ensure that Battle of the Sexes remains a must-watch for both tennis aficionados and advocates for equality.