Did 'Challengers' Get Snubbed at the Oscars?

Mike Faist, Josh O'Connor, and Zendaya, in Challengers (2024)

The awards season always comes with surprises, but few omissions have sparked as much discussion as Challengers (2024) missing out on major Oscar nominations. Directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Zendaya, Mike Faist, and Josh O’Connor, the film blends high-stakes sports drama with intricate relationship dynamics, yet it was notably absent from categories where many expected it to shine. At Peppermint Films, we created a cinematic edit of Challengers to showcase our appreciation for the film’s artistry and storytelling.

A Critical and Audience Favorite

From its first trailer, Challengers generated significant anticipation. Guadagnino’s signature direction, coupled with a compelling screenplay and dynamic performances, positioned the film as a strong awards contender. Critics and audiences alike praised its unique storytelling, bold cinematography, and nuanced performances, particularly Zendaya’s portrayal of a former tennis prodigy navigating personal and professional conflicts. Despite this, the Academy seemed to overlook it.

Mike Faist in Challengers (2024)

Where It Deserved Recognition

One of the biggest surprises was the film’s omission from the Best Actress category. Zendaya’s performance was widely regarded as one of her most layered to date, demonstrating both emotional depth and commanding screen presence. Additionally, the film’s cinematography, which captured the intensity of the sport with an innovative visual approach, would have made it a strong contender in the Best Cinematography category. Not to mention, the screenplay’s intricate character dynamics and psychological depth made a compelling case for Best Original Screenplay recognition.

The Broader Conversation on Oscar Snubs

Challengers joins a long list of films that have been overlooked by the Academy despite strong critical and audience reception. This year’s snubs highlight ongoing discussions about the Academy’s selection process and its recognition of genre-blurring films. In the past, similarly bold films have struggled to break into the Oscars conversation, only to be reassessed as modern classics years later.

Zendaya at the 2021 Oscars Red Carpet

A Film Still Worth Watching

While Challengers may not have received the Oscar nods many hoped for, its impact on audiences and the sports drama genre remains undeniable. Fans of Guadagnino’s work and indie-leaning, visually striking cinema should not miss it.

The Power of Independent and Underrated Films

This conversation ties into a broader appreciation for independent films and those that push narrative and cinematic boundaries. Similar discussions around overlooked films can be found in our piece on underrated gems, where we explore movies that didn’t get the recognition they deserved. The industry is evolving, and while awards remain a marker of prestige, the true cinematic impact often transcends trophies.

As we reflect on this year’s Oscar nominations, what are your thoughts? Do you think Challengers deserves more recognition? Let us know your take on the biggest snubs of the year.