Challengers

Recently honored with four awards by the Greater Western New York Film Critics Association (on the Dryden Theatre stage January 4), including Best Picture, Challengers is receiving an encore screening for one night only. Teenage tennis phenom Tashi Donaldson (Zendaya) is pursued by best friends Art (Mike Faist) and Patrick (Josh O’Connor). When Tashi tells the pair she will give her phone number to the player that wins the championship, she lets fate decide her future, but the other player isn’t willing to let it. Following a tragic accident, the three are united again on the professional circuit, setting off a power struggle that will lead to the best tennis of their lives. Beautifully acted, with a driving score, breathtaking editing, and a view of the game never before seen, Challengers is a worthy recipient of the group’s biggest award. Also honored with awards for Best Director, Best Original Score, and Best Editing.