The titillating promise of this film is the scene in the trailer where Zendaya sits between the 2 tennis players (Josh O’Connor & Mike Faist) and a 3-way looks imminent. Although the romantic triangle does involve this trio, it’s more about both of the men vying for her affection. Even so, there’s still a homoerotic undertone to the men’s close relationship. The story bounces around time periods from when they first met to 13 years later when things have changed dramatically. All 3 of the actors are constantly compelling, capturing the passion, pain and joy of their bond. Director Luca Guadagnino (my review of Call Me By Your Name) certainly knows how to depict frustrated desire…their love scenes are comprised of lots of fervent kissing. The tennis matches are plentiful, but shot with sufficient drama to make them matter. The pumping electronic soundtrack by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross felt overbearing. The trio’s drama is explored with enthralling performances and lots of sexual tension. 
(3.5 / 5)
