015 - Challengers (Justin Kuritzkes)

Welcome to The Screenplay Lab, the podcast that treats screenplays like the art they are. I'm Jeff Barker, a screenwriter, and in this episode, we're dissecting the bold, layered, and seductive script behind Challengers (2024) — written by Justin Kuritzkes and directed by Luca Guadagnino. Starring Zendaya, Josh O'Connor, and Mike Faist, Challengers is far more than a steamy love triangle on a tennis court. It's nonlinear storytelling at its sharpest, with subtext-rich dialogue, shifting POVs, and a screenplay that's as cinematic on the page as it is on screen. What's inside this breakdown: Emotional momentum in a nonlinear structure Power, seduction & control — tennis as metaphor Subtext-laced dialogue that leaves an impact Multiple perspectives told with clarity and flair Formatting risks: mini-slugs, bold text, "thwaacckkk", and more How Challengers blends sports drama, erotic thriller, and psychological tension We also explore how Justin Kuritzkes transitioned from a viral YouTuber to a Black List screenwriter, how the script evolved in collaboration with Zendaya and Guadagnino, and what this film teaches us about modern cinematic storytelling. Plus: Comparisons to Eternal Sunshine, symbolism deep-dives, and why this screenplay hits harder than a Grand Slam serve. ️ About The Screenplay Lab: We study and appreciate screenplays as stand-alone literary works, not just blueprints for film. We deconstruct a script in each episode, uncovering what makes it unique and exploring what writers can learn.  Join the Conversation! Like this episode? Subscribe, rate, and leave a review! ✅ Jeff Barker's Website ✅Video Podcast on YouTube