The dramatic sports comedy’Rivals‘ dominated the top of the US box office by grossing US$15 million on its first weekend.
The result represents the biggest debut of the director’s career Luca Guadagnino (‘Call Me By Your Name’) in the country.
In addition, the production also became the biggest debut for an original film starring the Zendaya (‘Dune’) – overcoming ‘The Greatest Showman‘, which had collected US$8.8 million in its first weekend in North American territory.
Internationally, the film adds US$10 million – totaling a global debut of US$25 million.
Success among critics – with 96% approval rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes –, the production also seems to have pleased viewers, receiving a B+ grade from the public on CinemaScore.
According to deadlinethe film also added US$1.2 million only in IMAX.
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The film also stars Josh O’Connor (‘The Crown’) and Mike Faist (‘Love sublime love’).
The plot follows a couple of tennis athletes who, after reuniting with an old friend, end up unearthing a relationship kept secret for many years.
Tennis prodigy turned coach Tashi Duncan is a force of nature who makes no apologies for her play on and off the court. Married to a champion who has only accumulated defeats in recent games, Tashi’s strategy for her husband’s redemption takes a surprising turn when he must face the failed Patrick on the courts. Patrick was her husband’s best friend, and is Tashi’s ex-boyfriend. When past and present collide, and tensions rise, Tashi must wonder what the cost of this victory will be.
Luca Guadagnino shared details about the film in an interview with Variety. He revealed that Zendaya spent three months training with professional tennis coach and former player Brad Gilbert to prepare for the role.
