In “Marty Supreme,” directed by Josh Safdie and produced by A24, Timothée Chalamet takes on the challenging role of Martin Mauser, a Jewish table-tennis prodigy navigating the competitive sports world during the early Cold War. Mauser is portrayed as a restless schemer whose drive is as much a hindrance as it is an advantage, showcasing a darkly ambitious side reminiscent of a modern-day Sammy Glick.
Chalamet, known for his more sensitive roles in films like “Call Me by Your Name,” has described Mauser as “the most me” of any character he has played, suggesting that there is a deeper connection between the actor and this flawed, ambitious figure. However, audiences may find the character’s dirtbag qualities jarring, given Chalamet’s previous portrayals of more earnest youths. His upbringing in the artsy milieu of Hell’s Kitchen and education in New York public schools add layers to his performance, emphasizing the millennial ethos of relentless ambition and street-savvy authenticity.
The Safdie brothers have long explored the underbelly of New York City in their films, and “Marty Supreme” fits seamlessly into this narrative tradition. They delve into the complexities of privilege and risk in urban life, pairing dark humor with the harsh realities faced by characters like Mauser. The film’s casting choices reflect this ethos, incorporating real-life New Yorkers from diverse backgrounds, including local notables and non-professional actors.
The story begins with Mauser hustling at a shoe store in the Lower East Side, eyeing an international table-tennis tournament in London as his ticket to fame and fortune. His journey takes a cynical turn as his flashy persona clashes with the sport’s expectations, especially when he faces off against the calm and collected Koto Endo, leading to a series of comedic yet tragic misadventures that highlight the character’s egocentrism and detachment from reality.
Visually, “Marty Supreme” employs gritty cinematography that captures the essence of a bustling, chaotic cityscape, further enhancing the film’s urban authenticity. The Safdies’ collaboration with renowned cinematographer Darius Khondji adds depth to the narrative, deviating from their previous visual styles while maintaining a visceral realism that immerses viewers.
Despite the inevitable consequences of Mauser’s relentless pursuit of success, the film attempts to provide a glimmer of redemption for its protagonist. Unlike the bleak conclusions in the Safdies’ past works, “Marty Supreme” offers an ending that hints at growth and maturity, as Chalamet delivers a performance that might secure him a place in the Oscar spotlight.
As “Marty Supreme” confronts themes of ambition, identity, and the pursuit of greatness, it aligns with the Safdies’ broader cinematic inquiries into the nature of success in a cutthroat world. With its mixture of comedic chaos and poignant moments, the film ultimately presents a hopeful, albeit messy, journey of self-discovery in the unforgiving landscape of New York City’s social fabric.