Luca Guadagnino, the acclaimed director from Palermo, celebrated a significant achievement at the 2025 Golden Globes. His latest film, Challengers, received the prestigious award for Best Original Score, composed by the talented Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The ceremony, held on January 5 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, was a celebration of cinematic and musical excellence, and this award represents another milestone for one of Italy’s most internationally renowned filmmakers.
The soundtrack: the beating heart of Challengers
The award-winning score is the work of Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, known for their compositions in films like The Social Network (for which they won an Oscar) and Gone Girl. The duo masterfully captured the film’s emotional essence, crafting a musical accompaniment that intertwines with the characters’ experiences and feelings. In an interview, Reznor and Ross expressed how inspiring it was to collaborate with Guadagnino: “His vision for the film encouraged us to explore new sonic dimensions to do justice to the characters and their stories,” they said.
The plot of Challengers
The film is a romantic drama set in the high-stakes world of professional tennis. It follows Tashi Duncan, played by Zendaya, a young tennis prodigy turned coach after an injury ends her career. Tashi becomes entangled in a complicated love triangle with her husband, Art (Mike Faist), and his former best friend, Patrick (Josh O’Connor). Through a mix of intense sports competition and personal dynamics, the film delves into themes of ambition, jealousy, and love. Guadagnino’s direction has been praised for its elegant and sensual approach, immersing viewers in a deeply emotional narrative. The performances of the lead actors, especially Zendaya, have also garnered acclaim, with critics highlighting her intense and multifaceted portrayal.
An international recognition
The Best Original Score award at the Golden Globes is a significant acknowledgment not only for Reznor and Ross but also for Luca Guadagnino, whose career is defined by a strong artistic identity. Although Challengers did not win in the Best Musical or Comedy Film category, the musical triumph of the film marks a key victory for its creative team.
With this award, Challengers gains momentum for the upcoming awards season, including the Oscars. This victory could pave the way for a series of accolades, further solidifying Guadagnino’s and his team’s international reputation. Through its emotional depth on screen and musical triumphs, the film emerges as one of the year’s most significant works, captivating critics and audiences alike with a story that resonates with the heart and soul.