The combination of tennis and movies may not be an obvious one, but when they come together, they bring a level of drama and absurdity that is hard to find in any other sport. Whether it’s the intense one-on-one battles or the devious scoring system that keeps every match up in the air until the very end, tennis has all the makings of a great movie. And while films about tennis might not be as common as other sports movies, they certainly bring something unique to the table.
One such film that has captured the attention of tennis enthusiasts is “Challengers.” Directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Zendaya, “Challengers” is a captivating tennis drama that has drawn some surprising comparisons to an earlier film. This earlier film is not your typical sports movie, but rather a quirky mockumentary called “7 Days in Hell.” Featuring Andy Samberg and a runtime of just 43 minutes, “7 Days in Hell” is a delightfully silly take on the world of tennis, and it’s definitely worth a watch.
Both “Challengers” and “7 Days in Hell” feature a highly contested match between rival male players, with plenty of emotionally charged moments that may border on the realm of the sexual. They both also have their fair share of threesome action, an absurdly extended rally at the net, and a certain gesture that takes things to a whole new level. But what really sets these films apart is their recognition of the inherently ridiculous nature of tennis.
While “Challengers” straddles the line of high camp, “7 Days in Hell” fully embraces the absurdity of the sport. The film spoofs the longest match in tennis history, a grueling seven-day clash at Wimbledon, and in doing so, it highlights the masochism and absurdism of both playing and watching tennis. It’s a hilarious take on the sport, filled with broad and crude humor that is sure to keep audiences entertained.
What truly makes “7 Days in Hell” shine is its star-studded cast, with appearances from the likes of Andy Samberg, John McEnroe, Chris Evert, Fred Armisen, Karen Gillan, Mary Steenburgen, Lena Dunham, and Michael Sheen, among others. Their comedic performances, coupled with the film’s clever satire of the sports-documentary format, make for a truly enjoyable viewing experience.
Both “7 Days in Hell” and “Challengers” convey the same message: that while sports may be about competition and dominance, they also reflect a thin line between dominance and desire. And in the case of tennis, the absurdity of the sport is laid bare for all to see. Whether you’re a die-hard tennis fan or just looking for a good laugh, “7 Days in Hell” is definitely worth adding to your watchlist.
“7 Days in Hell” is available for streaming on Max, Hulu, and YouTube with a subscription, and it can also be rented on Apple TV, Google Play, and other digital platforms. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and get ready for a week of ridiculousness on the tennis court.