Battle of the Sexes (2017) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Battle of the Sexes (2017), directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, is a biographical sports drama that recounts the historic 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. The film stars Emma Stone as Billie Jean King and Steve Carell as Bobby Riggs. It explores themes of gender equality, personal identity, and the societal impact of sports.
This review will cover the plot, characters, and themes of Battle of the Sexes, and provide information on where to stream or rent the film online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Overview: The Historic Match
Battle of the Sexes dramatizes the events leading up to and including the infamous “Battle of the Sexes” tennis match. In 1973, former world champion Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) challenged Billie Jean King (Emma Stone), a leading female tennis player, to a match. Riggs, a self-proclaimed chauvinist, claimed that women’s tennis was inferior to men’s and sought to prove his point.
The film follows King’s journey as she prepares for the match, facing personal and professional challenges. It highlights her efforts to promote gender equality in sports while dealing with her own struggles, including her sexual orientation and her complex relationship with her husband. Riggs, on the other hand, is portrayed as both a showman and a competitor, using the match to boost his own fame.
The film culminates in the highly publicized match, which becomes a symbol of the broader fight for gender equality and women’s rights.
Emma Stone and Steve Carell: Compelling Performances
Emma Stone and Steve Carell deliver standout performances that anchor the film.
- Emma Stone portrays Billie Jean King with a mix of strength and vulnerability. Stone’s performance captures King’s determination and resilience as she navigates both the personal and public pressures leading up to the match. Her portrayal brings depth to King’s character and highlights her role as a pioneer for women’s rights.
- Steve Carell plays Bobby Riggs with a blend of charisma and complexity. Carell’s performance emphasizes Riggs’s larger-than-life personality and his motivations for the match. His portrayal adds a layer of entertainment and insight into Riggs’s character.
The chemistry between Stone and Carell is central to the film’s exploration of the dynamic between the two players and their impact on the broader societal issues of the time.
Supporting Cast and Characters
The supporting cast of Battle of the Sexes enhances the film’s narrative:
- Sarah Silverman plays Gladys Heldman, a key supporter of King who helps organize the match and advocate for women’s tennis. Silverman’s performance adds a layer of support and advocacy to the story.
- Billie Jean King’s real-life partner, Marilyn Barnett, is portrayed by Andrea Riseborough. Barnett’s relationship with King adds depth to the film’s exploration of King’s personal struggles and her journey toward self-acceptance.
The supporting characters contribute to the film’s portrayal of the historical and personal context surrounding the match.
Themes: Gender Equality, Identity, and Societal Impact
Battle of the Sexes explores themes of gender equality and personal identity. The film highlights the societal impact of the tennis match and its role in the broader feminist movement of the 1970s.
The theme of gender equality is central to the film, as King’s victory represents a significant moment in the fight for women’s rights and equal opportunities in sports. The film also addresses personal identity, focusing on King’s struggles with her sexual orientation and her role as a trailblazer in a male-dominated field.
The film captures the cultural and societal impact of the match, showcasing how it became a symbol of progress and change.
Direction and Cinematography
Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris’s direction brings a compelling blend of historical context and personal drama to the film. Their approach captures the tension and excitement of the match while delving into the personal and societal issues faced by the characters.
The cinematography by Linus Sandgren complements the direction, using dynamic camera work and period-appropriate visuals to immerse the audience in the 1970s setting. The film’s visual style enhances the storytelling and contributes to the overall impact of the narrative.
Reception and Legacy
Battle of the Sexes received positive reviews for its engaging portrayal of a significant historical event and its strong performances. The film was praised for its ability to blend historical drama with personal storytelling, capturing the essence of the match and its impact on gender equality.
The film’s legacy lies in its portrayal of a pivotal moment in sports history and its exploration of important social issues. It remains a notable entry in the genre of biographical sports dramas.
Where to Watch Battle of the Sexes Online in America
For those interested in watching Battle of the Sexes, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Battle of the Sexes is available to stream on Hulu for subscribers.
- HBO Max: Available for streaming with an HBO Max subscription.
Rental and Purchase Streaming Services
For those who prefer to rent or buy the film, it is available on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase the film in HD or SD formats.
- Apple TV: Available for rent or purchase in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Rent or buy Battle of the Sexes on Google Play.
- Vudu: Rent or purchase the film in HD or UHD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy the movie through YouTube Movies.
Final Thoughts
Battle of the Sexes (2017) is a compelling and well-crafted film that captures the excitement and significance of the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. With strong performances from Emma Stone and Steve Carell, and a thoughtful exploration of gender equality and personal identity, the film offers both entertainment and insight into a pivotal moment in sports history.
Whether you’re a fan of sports dramas or interested in the historical context of the match, Battle of the Sexes provides an engaging and impactful viewing experience. Check out the streaming platforms mentioned above to enjoy this insightful film and experience its powerful narrative.
