Battle of the Sexes (2017) User Reviews

Losing The Forest For The Trees

[zkonedog · 6/10 · 7 October 2017]

There is no doubt that the event on which "Battle of the Sexes" is based on was a monumental moment in sports and cultural history. The exhibition tennis match between Bobby Riggs & Billie Jean King was in part a circus, but also (in large part) a key moment in the taking of women athletes seriously on the national stage. While this film eventually arrives at that point, I felt like it took far too long for it to "get to the point", so to speak.

For a basic plot summary, this film tells the story of the run-up to the Battle of the Sexes match. Riggs (Steve Carell) is a male chauvinist through and through (or at least plays the role of one), while King (Emma Stone) is perhaps the premiere women's tennis player of her era. While King struggles with her confusing sexuality and Riggs falls on hard times with his own wife, this sets the wheels in motion for a match that will be more than just an exhibition, as it seemingly carries with it the weight of the Women's Liberation movement of the 1970s.

Let me be clear about one thing: This isn't a "bad" movie by any stretch. Great acting performances are given, and the final 30 minutes are fully riveting. I completely understood and appreciated the message that was being conveyed.

That being said, the entire film is predicated on the notion that the setup (e.g. the first 70-80 minutes or so) of both lead figures will lead to more dramatic payoff in the end. For me, that didn't happen (in fact, it actually had the opposite effect). I'm not sure that King's sexual leanings needed to be a focal point of the story, and in Riggs' case his relationship with his wife (played by Elisabeth Shue) should have been developed even more. Because neither of these things really get on track, at least the first half of the film felt slow and stodgy to me.

Once the match is set and the buildup/execution of it begins, though, the film really shines. I only have video footage to go on here (I was not alive for the real thing), but Stone is sometimes a dead-ringer for King on the court. Carell's antics as Riggs were also accurate from what I have read/heard.

So, while being a solid film, I cannot give "Battle of the Sexes" more than just above-average marks for the lackluster opening acts. I felt like a different lens was needed (or the execution of the chosen lens needed to be better) in order to make the movie truly riveting in the end instead of "just" somewhat inspirational. It never got to that "next level" for me (aside from the material about the actual match itself).

Emma Stone and Steve Carell carry an uplifting, but overlong sports film

[hunter-friesen · 6/10 · 22 October 2017]

Battle of the Sexes is a an enjoyable retelling of the famous 1973 tennis match between 29-year-old Billie Jean King and 55-year-old Bobby Riggs. It was the match that sparked the women's movement in sport and planted King's status as the greatest tennis player in the world. We witness the personal journey she went though as she fought for equal rights in sports and society.

Emma Stone portrays Billie Jean King as a shy and reserved opportunist who's looking to make the best of her current situation. She's a true trailblazer that's pushing for equal rights for women in sports. Steve Carell as Bobby Riggs could not be more opposite from King. He's a retired tennis champion who can't stop gambling, which frustrates his wife to the point of no return. He's also a male chauvinist who believes in the superiority of men and how women should stay in the kitchen. It couldn't be a better battle between polar opposite personalities and motives.

The film follows the parallel journeys King and Riggs go through to get to their famous match. King struggles to gain equal pay for women tennis players, which eventually leads to the creation of her own women's tennis league. While traveling for matches, she discovers her homosexuality with her hairdresser, Marilyn. She's torn between her new desires and the life she already has with her husband, Larry. Riggs meanwhile is stuck in a midlife crisis and feels that his life has been missing something since he retired. He's passing his time through gambling and wants to plan a major comeback in the tennis world. Eventually their paths cross and results in one of the biggest and important sporting events in history.

Clocking in at 121 minutes, the film takes its sweet time to build up King and Riggs' story. While it's interesting to see their stories unfold, it goes on for too long and drags in the middle parts just before the climactic match. The sharing of screen time is also very lopsided towards King while Riggs is treated almost like a supporting character for the first hour.

Directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris use their skills from Little Miss Sunshine to create a personal and emotional film. The tone of the film is pretty lighthearted and never gets too serious about the whole situation of equal rights among genders. It allows for a more feel-good sports film that is enjoyable to watch.

Shot in 70's style makes the film feel closer to a television documentary than a Hollywood production. There's a grab bag of awkward close-ups, grainy images, and off-balance shots that make the film feel more authentic and grounded in reality. The famous match is recreated with stunning detail and the biggest highlight of the film.

The acting is the saving grace of the film as Stone and Carell do an exceptional job portraying the real players. Golden Globe nominations will come for each of them and maybe even an Academy Award nomination for Stone. Sarah Silverman also shines as the rough and confident manager, Gladys. She plays well off Stone in the small amount of time she gets. Andrea Riseborough is solid as King's lover, Marilyn, who opens up King's hidden secrets and is the leading contributor to the emotional arc. Bill Pullman is the only person who doesn't pull of their role, as his sexist boss character is very one dimensional and almost cartoonish by the end.

Battle of the Sexes is a well acted and uplifting sports film that suffers from being too slow and too long. It doesn't run as smoothly as it should, but is enjoyable enough to rank among the better sports films out there, and definitely the best tennis film.

A compelling and relevant sports drama

[AlsExGal · 7/10 · 22 December 2022]

Directed by Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton, the film brings to life the famous 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King, portrayed by Emma Stone, and Bobby Riggs, played by Steve Carell.

The film takes us back to a time when women's sports struggled for recognition and respect, and Billie Jean King emerges as a formidable figure fighting for gender equality both on and off the tennis court. Emma Stone captured King's determination, resilience, and internal struggle as she grapples with her own personal journey while championing the cause of equal pay and equal rights.

Steve Carell shines in his portrayal of Bobby Riggs, a charismatic and self-proclaimed male chauvinist who challenges King to a highly publicized match. Carell brings both humor and depth to the character, capturing Riggs' larger-than-life personality while also highlighting the underlying insecurities and complexities that drove him.

Beyond the tennis match itself, "Battle of the Sexes" explores the broader social and cultural context of the time. The film portrays the struggles faced by women in the sports industry and the larger feminist movement of the 1970s. It delves into the personal lives of the characters, shedding light on the challenges they faced in their relationships and their efforts to navigate societal expectations.

A Simple Feel-good Story with some Subtlety Issues

[Jared_Andrews · 6/10 · 19 December 2017]

A light, fluffy, sweet treat, Battle of the Sexes is assuredly a crowd-pleasing movie. But much like cotton candy-the movie offers very little to digest. Overall, the movie will win over most viewers with its familiar feel-good true story angle. If you liked 2016's Hidden Figures, chances are that this is a movie for you.

It strives for and ultimately achieves the classic feel-good movie moments. Hero activist beats chauvinist pig. Good triumphs over evil. Or something like that. There is no deeper exploration. There is no hard-hitting, brutal honesty. The examinations are superficial and dive no deeper than the surface.

Basically, movie is too simple. But sexism and the problems that it causes are complicated. In the movie, everything is spelled out in a painfully obvious way. It condescends to make sure that everyone understands. The sexist characters come out in shameless and laughably overt ways. The good person defeats the bad person and everyone cheers. It's a fairy tale ending, hooray! But none of that is realistic.

Sexist and discriminatory people in power don't publicly profess their feelings in such blunt ways. So, when the movie scenes portray characters as loud and proud sexists, I can only roll my eyes. I know the movie uses these exaggerated characters and moments to make the situation abundantly clear to the audience. I just prefer a bit of subtlety.

Instead, the movie handles the delicate, nuanced topics of sexism and repression of homosexuality with the blunt force of a lumberjack with a giant axe. Wrong professional and wrong tool. We needed a surgeon with medical instruments.

The movie still has its upside. Steve Carell and Emma Stone are charming and wonderful, which is an amazing feat considering the character that Carell plays. Bobby Riggs (Carell) flaunts his chauvinism in such a flamboyant manner that showmanship is clearly his primary focus. This is one detail that the movie gets right, thanks largely to Carell. Riggs doesn't actually believe the gross, archaic things he says about women. It's an act. He says them to attract interest in the upcoming Man vs. Woman tennis match with Billie Jean King (Stone).

The storytelling is clear, even if not always smooth. The combination of King's life-changing romance along with the battle of the sexes tennis match fit awkwardly. Though, I'm sure those two things also fit awkwardly in King's life at the time, so I accept the somewhat clumsy clash of the two storylines. Again, if you liked Hidden Figures, you will like Battle of the Sexes. It's uplifting and sends a valuable and inspiring message to young girls everywhere. On that basis, I applaud the movie. Despite its flaws, it's still a story worthy of knowing.

Forced and Awkward

[MalShootsFirst · 30 September 2017]

This movie is about how Billie Jean King cheated on her loving husband with her lesbian hairdresser.

The filmmaker apparently thinks you're supposed to overlook adultery because... I don't know, LGBTQ something?

Billie Jean's husband may be the only not flawed character, and he's apparently supposed to be... what? the bad guy?

I came to see a movie of women's empowerment and I somehow found myself almost rooting for Bobby Riggs, especially since they made a point to say his chauvinism was just for show. Given that it's an actual historical event I'm glad Billie Jean won, but I mean damn. Seriously, what was the point of making Billie Jean a cheater? The whole movie just felt awkward and forced.

I look forward to a women's empowerment movie that doesn't somehow accidentally make women the villain of the story.

Battle of the Sexes may have scored some points, but it hogs it's own ball by focusing too much on Billie Jean King

[RforFilm · 6/10 · 10 October 2017]

In the sporting world, most women unfortunately get the short end of the deal. Women have shown that they are just as athletic and strong as any man. It all comes down to biology and that whoever posses the greater ability is going to triumph. It can be men, but women just have enough chance. Sports in no different, but that environment has been a male dominated area for a long time. From the early days of the Ancient Greek Olympic games to the modern NFL, the doors were open to all men, but women have always been led to their own segregated event, or even told not to try.

The second half of the twentieth century gave in to the rise of feminism as society further accepted the role the women would play. The workforce, science, and even politics would see their fair share of women pioneers, but when it came to sports, this was still seen as a mans game. In the 1970s, a group of women athletes tried to change things by not only starting their own tennis organization, but helped set up a match to prove their ability to equal the men. This is all done in Battle of the Sexes.

Tennis star Billie Jean King (played by Emma Stone) has made a big name for herself, having won the Grand Slam Championships along with the US Open and Wimbledon, and all by the age of twenty-nine. Though despite her name, she finds out that she and every other female tennis athlete were making thousands less the men, all because of their gender. She asks for an equal pay from the executive director of the Association of Tennis Professionals Jack Kramer (played by Bill Pullman) but is denied. In defiance, she and several other women tennis players quit the circuit to start their own series of tournaments.

Meanwhile, former tennis star Bobby Riggs (played by Steve Carell) is dealing with his compulsive gambling and still seeks attention from the media. To boast his image and the sport of tennis, he pitches to Billie Jean King an exhibition match where the two would play, and "show why men are better athletes". Though aware it's a publicity stunt, Billie turns him down. In 1973, Billie is again pitched, but this time accepts for the sake of her fellow athletes. At the same time however, she is going through personal troubles as she begins an affair with her hairdresser Marilyn (played by Andrea Riseborough).

Given a lot of the controversial political trouble that the U.S. has been going through, Battle of the Sexes seems to be made at the right time. A tennis match between two different ideologies seems to summarize a lot of the thoughts and concerns people are having with the future. I'd say that overall, not all of the game was played right. What I mean is that while the movie as a whole promises a fair share, the story seems to be one sided with Billie Jean King.

Both Emma Stone and Steve Carell play their characters fine enough. I can see why Emma Stone would be attracted to this part after winning her Oscar for La La Land; it shows how much a personal issue could affect an athlete's mental game. She is interesting and you do want her to see her prevail her cause. Steve Carell may seem to going back to comedic roots that could be seen as hammy, but understand that Bobby Riggs had a large personality that would require a Steve Carrel. I just wished the movie would have given us more time to explore that part of his character.

Like the title of this movie, everything leads up to the match. The problem is that while I like the events that lead us there, the movie doesn't seem to be interested in the Bobby Riggs side. I wonder if the original script was originally a Billie Jean Kings biopic that was rewritten to be about this match and the controversies surrounding this. This leads into a movie that means well, but is structurally uneven with its tone. This will surely be a movie that will be championed for it's positive look on female athletes, but for those that want to look into the history of The Battle of the Sexes, there must be some books about it that tell the story better.

I'll give it six tennis balls out of ten. I cannot dismiss the movie completely as when it tells Billie Jean King's story, I liked it. I just wish that Bobby Riggs had gotten a fairer portrayal. I'd say if your going to see this, look into the facts and people behind the actual Battle of the Sexes first. Do all of that, and see if the balls in your court.

A Doll's House Re-visited, Almost

[rannynm · 7/10 · 6 October 2017]

The themes presented in this film are still relevant and have merit. With that said, I want to add that ever since Ibsen wrote "A Doll's House," it's very rare to get a film (or play for that matter) that is charged with the theme of gender equality and presents it in a way that truly resonates. What do I mean? In films that aim to give a message or present an issues, such as when the writer wants to say something about the relevant society, more often than not, the writer portrays those characters in simple categorizations of good and bad. That may work in a superhero film, but in a piece of realism, where character development and relationships are key elements to the storytelling, simple good and bad just won't do. That's my issue with this film. The screenplay simplifies a few integral characters too much, in favor of hoisting up its protagonist.

To get this out of the way, the performances are fantastic. Emma Stone and Steve Carell lead the cast well, and the cast doesn't have a weak link in it. In particular, a lot of credit has to be given to Steve Carell. He took a character that was underwritten and perhaps even misrepresented and makes him sympathetic and someone to root for. Andrea Riseborough also delivers a very affecting performance and really gives us some great scene work with Emma Stone.

The directing is swift, well paced and well filmed. Kudos to the cinematographer who really has a wonderful grasp on stillness to promote an essential moment and exerts great uses of soft and hard focus to portray dramatic moments and internalize character feelings. The editing also deserves a shout out for some wonderful pacing and really effectively switching between the grainy, 70s like cinematography and more clear cinematography.

Now, back to the screenplay. What made and still makes "A Doll's House" the ultimate gender-equality script is that every character can be sympathized with. We learn more about the human condition and evils of society, rather than placing blame and anger on individual groups. There are only two men that can be rooted for without hesitation and that's our protagonist's husband and father. Every other guy is completely unlikable and has no arc, and Steve Carell's character can be questioned. Carell's character, who is a vital part of this story, isn't written very well or thoroughly. It's always hard to have two protagonists in a film, especially at a reasonable and well paced time. Carell's character is both an antagonist and protagonist or, at least attempts to be so. Carell's character opposes Emma Stone's. It's a man versus women ordeal and their tennis match is the crisis and climax of the film. But, here's the issue. Carell's character is NOT the antagonist. It's society! So why is Carell's character's standing within the realm of the film so questionable? Why doesn't he get his own arc? Every major character in "A Doll's House" takes a journey. That's what makes us empathize with them and come away disliking their society, and not the products of that society. The same would work with this film. But instead, there is a co- protagonist / antagonist that is not written for people to care about or even empathize with. He gets no arc, no change. He's unaffected. He may as well have been a smaller part.

Why is this an issue? Because Emma Stone's character is a catalyst. She's the driving force and vehicle used within the film to represent the affects of an unjust era and to showcase the positive effects that a change in this society would have. Unfortunately, because Carell's character and the real antagonists (the sexists who sit atop the societal ladder) don't change, because we only see them as unlikable, this story turns into something simple and ultimately un-fulfilling. Stone's character merely wins the battle within the film and we come away knowing that and are momentarily happy. However, that soon goes away, which makes this entertaining dramedy perhaps a little forgettable. Had the writing been more substantial and caring to all its characters, and forgiving to all its characters and condemned society instead, we'd come away with a more profound understanding of where issues lie and are issued from. That's a memorable film. I suppose the cinematic world is still chasing Ibsen.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars for its entertainment value and performances and recommend it for ages 13 to 18. Reviewed by Willie J., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic.

An entertaining if uneven battle

[TheLittleSongbird · 6/10 · 6 February 2018]

Despite not being the biggest of tennis fans, like as was said in my review for 'Borg vs. McEnroe' (also from 2017, and as said by others the superior film), the real-life story that 'Battle of the Sexes' is based upon is a fascinating one.

'Battle of the Sexes' has proved to be very divisive, if more the audience reaction than the generally positive to acclaim critical reception. To me, it entertained, it engaged and it inspired, but also felt very uneven, with obvious great things and other elements that one wishes were done better. 'Borg vs. McEnroe' felt more of a more even and satisfying film, because it handled the characters in a much more balanced fashion and was more focused.

Starting with the positives, 'Battle of the Sexes' has a suitably authentic 70s look that makes one feel like they are back in 1973. Some people may not like this and feel it's poor film-making, understandably, personally liked this successful effort at authenticity. Also really appreciated the perky, light-hearted tone of the film, while there are also emotional moments that reminds one that the film does have a heart and the message inspires.

The climax is beautifully staged and there is a lot of light-hearted wit and thought-provoking writing. Emma Stone and Steve Carrell both give performances that are spirited and sincere, especially Stone in the more prominent role. Andrea Riseborough is the standout by quite some way of the supporting cast.

However, can understand the criticisms of imbalance and bias. The characters are too one-sided and with the film so heavily focused on Billie Jean and her personal life (which was actually quite tastefully handled) and too much in her favour it means that the more tennis-oriented parts, other subplots and just as important characters are not focused on enough. The leads are great, as is Riseborough.

The rest are stifled by their characters being explored in too flimsy, biased and one-dimensional a way, ranging from caricatures to idiots. A very dull Austin Stowell and a cartoonish Bill Pullman particularly struggle. The music is overwrought and sounded like it was written for another film and the film could have been shorter by half an hour.

In conclusion, entertaining and interesting but uneven. 6/10 Bethany Cox

A Film Made With Care And Heart

[kjproulx · 7/10 · 25 September 2017]

True stories are always tampered with when trying to create a feature film. Sometimes that's for the better and sometimes it's for the worse, but it's usually done in order to make a great film, rather than relying on spilling information to the audience. Battle of the Sexes is the latest upcoming film to receive this treatment, and while I'm not very familiar with the material it's based on, I found myself really enjoying these characters on-screen. Whether or not they accomplished a spot-on depiction of them, it matters if the film ends up being good or not. Upon reflection, this is about a solid as you can get with a story that's fairly specific about its messages. This is a very well made movie that will be remembered for its great performances. Here is why I would recommend Battle of the Sexes.

Billie Jean King (a world-class tennis player) is challenged by Bobby Riggs (the current champion) and after deciding this is the best move for her career, the two prepare for the match of the century. That's the simple premise of this film, but the underlying messages of feminism and whether or not women should've been giving equal rights to play in a sport that many believed they couldn't do as wells men is definitely worth putting up on the big screen. Sure, there are moments throughout this film that many my find preachy, but there really isn't another way to get the point across without coming off that way. I thought this story was presented with care and honesty.

If for nothing else, Steve Carell and especially Emma Stone should surely be remembered for their performances here. Although nothing spectacular in terms of breaking out in tears or screaming for an Oscar, their subtle nuances that they add to their characters are really what made this film work for me. Battle of the Sexes is a film that needed to be made, but it's one of those movies that relies heavily on whether or not you believe in what the actors are saying. I was sucked into this story and found myself relaxed throughout the first two acts and slowly getting on the edge of my seat by the time the film reached its climax.

As mentioned above, this is a film that builds up to a tennis match to end all tennis matches (so to speak), but it's really not about the match at all. It's really just a matter of whether or not a woman can stand up to a man in the court, regardless of the outcome. I found this aspects to be very moving and it's what made me enjoy this film as much as I did. Yes, the match itself is well done, but its really not that intense, because by the time the match begins, the point of the film has already been made.

In the end, Battle of the Sexes is a well-written screenplay that's translated quite well to the big screen. Having very, very good performances that deliver a solid message about how far we've come as a society in terms of gender equality, this is always a relevant topic. All of that being said, I feel as though this film could've been much stronger. I enjoyed this film from start to finish, but it really does just exist to get that message across. It's a good movie that could've been great if it took a few more chances. I can recommend it to everyone in order to pick up on all of the eye- opening messages, but once you've seen this film, I can't see much re-watch value. Battle of the Sexes is a solid watch with a great message, but that's about it.

Great performances by Emma Stone and Steve Carell

[Top_Dawg_Critic · 8/10 · 21 January 2018]

Funny to see all those offended over a simple biographical drama crying sexism and politics. Too bad those can't simply enjoy a great film with great acting and directing. It was an interesting story told very well. 8/10 from me

The Most Millennial Movie

[imdb-79226 · 6/10 · 2 October 2017]

If I could give this film an alternate title I'd call it "Gay: The Movie". It was everything a millennial would want to see: LGBTQ causes, women's rights, Jewish people, and cigarettes!

Firstly the good: this had a stellar cast - Sarah Silverman did a superb job of portraying a serious character. There are so many TV and film greats that pop up all throughout the movie.

Now the bad: this wasn't a movie about tennis. It wasn't even about women's rights. It had plenty of homosexual tension, and I mean plenty, like if you missed it the first time we'll just linger longer and longer and longer on that theme. And then throw in more of that theme. And more.

This wasn't a movie about 1973. Too many technology fails for that. And over-exaggerated everything, from clothing to opinions. Maybe this is based somehow on a historical event but it would be described as loose at best and quite a fiction at that.

This wasn't a movie about female greats - you couldn't miss the vilification of Australia's great female tennis player, or the shaming of men filmed back in the day holding, what was then, majority acceptable views.

So what was this movie about, exactly? I'm not sure - and if it wasn't for the clever cinematography and the amazing sizeable cast - I think it wouldn't have had any entertainment value at all - unless I was 17 and felt it confirmed the political views of my friends.

I'm sure setting a movie back in the past is a wonderful vehicle for promoting cigarettes - such an important theme of this movie along with the carefully placed names of big tobacco companies that are most definitely around today.

It's also a wonderful vehicle for rewriting history - and shaming anybody who was a part of that time.

But be careful, kids, movies in 40 years are going to be all about how you were the shameful person because the views you hold today won't be what is acceptable in the future!

Tennis and Sex, but without the grunting.

[bob-the-movie-man · 9/10 · 19 December 2017]

Here's a good test of someone's age.... ask the question "Billie-Jean?". Millennials will probably come back with "Huh?"; those in their 30's or 40's might come back with "Michael Jackson!"; those older than that will probably reply "King!".

"Battle of the Sexes" tells the true-life story of US tennis star Billie-Jean King (Emma Stone, "La La Land"). The year is 1973 and Billie-Jean is riding high as the Number 1 female tennis player. She is a feminist; she is married (to hunk Larry - no not that one - King played by Austin Stowell ("Whiplash", "Bridge of Spies")); ... and she is also attracted to women, not something she has yet acted on. That all changes when her path crosses with LA-hairdresser Marilyn (Andrea Riseborough, "Birdman", "Oblivion").

But this is a side story: the main event is a bet made by aging ex-star Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell, "Foxcatcher"); that - even at his age - as a man he could beat the leading female tennis player of the day.

The film is gloriously retro, starting with the old-school 20th Century Fox production logo. And it contains breathtakingly sexist dialogue by writer Simon Beaufoy ("Everest", "The Full Monty"). Surely men couldn't have been so crass and outrageous in the 70's? Sorry ladies, but the answer is yes, and the film is testament to how far women's rights have come in 50 years.

This is a tour de force in acting from both Emma Stone and Steve Carell, particularly the latter: a scene where Carell tries to re-engage with his estranged wife (Elisabeth Shue, "Leaving Las Vegas") is both nuanced and heart-breaking. Stone's performance is also praiseworthy, although it feels slightly less so as it is an impersonation of a (relatively) well-known figure: this is extremely well-studied though, right down to her strutting walk around the court which I had both forgotten and was immediately again reminded of.

One of my favourite movie awards are the Screen Actor's Guild (SAG) "cast" awards that celebrate ensemble performances, and here is a film that should have been nominated (it unfortunately wasn't). Andrea Riseborough; Natalie Morales (as fellow tennis player Rosie Casals); comedian Sarah Silverman ("A Million Ways to Die in the West"), almost unrecognisable as the brash publicist Gladys Heldman; Bill Pullman as LTA head Jack Kramer; the great Alan Cumming ("The Good Wife") as the team's flamboyant, gay, costume designer; Lewis Pullman as Riggs's son Larry; Jessica McNamee (magnetic eyes!) as King's Australian tennis nemesis Margaret Court. All bounce off the leads, and each other, just beautifully.

Cinematography by Linus Sandgren ("La La Land") and editing by Pamela Martin ("Little Miss Sunshine") unite to deliver one of the most sexually charged haircuts you are ever likely to see on the screen. For those put off by this aspect of the storyline, the "girl-on-girl action" is pretty tastefully done and not overly graphic: it's mostly "first-base" stuff rather than "third-base"!

Directed with panache by the co-directors of the 2006 smash "Little Miss Sunshine" - Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris - all in all it's a delight, especially for older audiences who will get a blast of nostalgia from days when sports were still played at a slightly more leisurely pace... and definitely without the grunting.

(For the graphical review please visit bob-the-movie-man.com or One Mann's Movies on Facebook. Thanks).

Emma Stone and Steve Carell

[Edvis-1997 · 7/10 · 27 June 2018]

Really amazing biographical movie. Totally enjoyed it from the beginning until the end. Definitely worth to see this.

Not the great tennis breakthrough movie it might have been.

[markgorman · 5/10 · 27 November 2017]

Whilst Emma Stone puts down her marker for a possible third Oscar nomination the film as a whole left me slightly cold.  But then, when did you last see a GREAT tennis movie.  That's right.  You didn't.

But this potentially offered more because it appeared multi layered and could have been more nuanced than it is.

It tackles two themes simultaneously.  First, Billie Jean King's lesbian relationship with her hairdresser Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough) that eventually ended in controversy as she was publicly outed by her lover when they split in 1981.  Throughout King remained married to her first love Larry (played sympathetically but a little limply by Austin Stowell).  This is handled very tastefully and, for me, was the better part of the whole.

Second, and the source of the title, the movie explores sexism in the women's tennis game that led to her breaking away from the WTA and its sexist president, Jack Kramer (in an unconvincing performance by Bill Pullman), and taking on a challenge billed as THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES with 55 year old ex tennis champion and self proclaimed Male Chauvinist, Bobby Riggs (Steve Carrell).  

I disliked Carell's part greatly, not because he didn't perform it well but that it is written to make him out to be a complete idiot (which no doubt he was).  He becomes a character of himself quickly and I neither liked nor disliked him (I was annoyed by him though).  It all makes for a strange mix of comedy, politics, sexuality and revolt.

And the revolt was all too gentlemanly for me - despite the subject matter and the ire it must have stirred nobody really ever loses the plot and so the film lacks edge and dramatic tension.

What's more, it's 30 minutes too long and the overwrought soundtrack (Nicholas Britell - it really is a shocker) is over-pervasive and just plain annoying.

Emma Stone rarely puts a foot wrong in my view and at times you really do think BJK is on screen.  That part, and the general 70's styling of the movie, is excellent but it's ponderously directed and although the final shoot out between BJK and Riggs has an element of tension we all know the outcome and Britell's pomp and circumstance was gradually doing my nut in.

Just because you loved Little Miss Sunshine it does not follow that you will love this.

A Tedious and Unfunny 1970s Sports Dramedy

[makleen2 · 4 January 2018]

A female tennis star wrestles with the patriarchy and her own sexuality in the gyno-centric sports dramedy Battle of the Sexes (2017), written by Simon Beaufoy and directed by Jonathan Dayton. A retelling of the most-watched tennis match of all time, between ex-champion Bobby Riggs and top female player Billie Jean King, seemed promising, but something misfired along the way. It was partly billed as a comedy, and features both Sarah Silverman and Steve Carell, but ends up only being mildly amusing.

It's the early 1970s. Tennis star Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and her manager Gladys Heldman (Sarah Silverman) confront Jack Kramer (Bill Pullman) about gross inequality in tennis prize money between male and female players. In outrage, they storm off to found their own women's tennis association. Meanwhile, ex-tennis star Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) has hit a new low as his gambling addiction threatens to tear apart his family.

As her new league takes off, Billie Jean King's behavior threatens her marriage as well, when she meets hairstylist Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough) and discovers she is attracted to women. This affair seems to have little effect on her life, however, when her cuckolded husband, Larry King (Austin Stowell), shrugs it off and continues to faithfully dote on her.

Meanwhile, Bobby Riggs comes up with a way to exploit controversy over the women's lib movement to make money and challenges top female tennis players to an exhibition bout. He handily defeats Margaret Court (Jessica McNamee), who is portrayed as somehow flawed and weakened by her loving devotion to her husband and child. Billie Jean King finally accepts the challenge and ends up humiliating Riggs in a match dubbed "The Battle of the Sexes."

Most sports films feature an underdog overcoming adversity to win the final match, and elements of this film reminded me of the greatest underdog story of all time, Rocky (1976). Bobby Riggs' antics mirrored that of Apollo Creed, who also learned a lesson in humility in the finale. Billie Jean King, however, was no underdog. She was at the height of her career, among the top female tennis players in the world, and successfully launched her own all-female tennis league.

By the time the climactic match arrived, I was more relieved the film was finally over than I was to find out who won. There was really nothing at stake in a match that was essentially a meaningless promotional stunt. Billie Jean King easily defeated Bobby Riggs. In the end, she showed a female tennis player at the top of her game could beat a 55-year-old retiree.

In my opinion, the story of how Billie Jean King founded the Women's Tennis Association and struggled with her sexuality is much more interesting than the match with Bobby Riggs. Unfortunately, that was the marketing hook the filmmakers thought would draw viewers to this film, but ends up feeling secondary to the main drama.

The biggest problem with Battle of the Sexes was that it feigned interest in telling both sides of the story but was really about Billie Jean King. The fact real-life Billie Jean King consulted on the movie, while Riggs is no longer around to defend himself, compounded the problem. What resulted was King's triumphant story as seen through her eyes, which would have been fine if it was shot and advertised that way. Instead, we get a half-hearted attempt to develop Riggs' character and give him a story arch.

Overall, Battle of the Sexes lacked a clear focus. If the movie is about King's struggle, make it about that. If it's about the match between King and Riggs, make it about that. Either one of those movies would have been more entertaining than this convoluted and drawn out snoozefest.

Putting the Show in Chauvinism

[JamesHitchcock · 7/10 · 28 August 2019]

In May 1973 Margaret Court, at the time the world's No. 1 women's tennis player, lost a challenge match against former men's Wimbledon champion Bobby Riggs in what was dubbed the "Battle of the Sexes", with Riggs winning surprisingly easily. I say "surprisingly" because at 55 he was old enough to be Court's father; his Wimbledon victory had come as long ago as 1939, before Court was even born.

Who would now defend the honour of women's tennis? Step forward Billie Jean King, the world No. 2, even though she had previously dismissed Riggs's challenge to Court as an undignified gimmick. The early seventies were a period when the leading professional female players, King foremost amongst them, were agitating for the right to receive the same prize money as the men, and King was clearly irritated by Riggs' frequent sexist comments about female tennis players. The film tells the story of the second "Battle of the Sexes" between Riggs and King.

The film also deals with the private lives of the two protagonists. Their "Battle" came at a time when both were having problems in their marriages, although for different reasons. King had begun a lesbian affair with her hairdresser Marilyn Barnett, although the film suggests that her husband Larry treated this with philosophical detachment. Riggs had become alienated from his wife Priscilla because of his compulsive gambling, although he took the view that he did not have a gambling problem because he never bet more than he could afford to lose and, in any case, generally won more than he lost.

Emma Stone in the leading role suffers what, in many other biographical films, would be a significant disadvantage, that of not looking anything like the character she is portraying. Here, however, that does not matter so much because King's public profile was based on a distinctive hairstyle and an equally distinctive pair of oversized spectacles, something few other professional sportswomen wore. All Stone needs, therefore, is a brunette wig and specs and... hey presto, Billie Jean!

The film-makers sometimes try to pretend that they are making a serious film about an event which played an important part in winning equality for sportswomen, although they never really have an answer to the argument that King's initial feelings about Riggs were actually correct and that the two "Battles of the Sexes" were indeed an undignified gimmick. Riggs probably had no strong views one way or the other about how much prize-money women players should receive, but he was as addicted to publicity-seeking as he was to gambling, and saw the two matches as a lucrative way of keeping his name in the headlines. His provocative comments ("putting the show in chauvinism", as he put it) may well have been made with the express purpose of goading King into accepting his challenge.

In many ways the film is as much a light-hearted comedy as a serious celebration of sporting feminism. This is achieved in two ways. The first is by treating Riggs as essentially a figure of fun. I have only seen Steve Carell in one other film, the serious drama "Foxcatcher" (in which he was excellent), but I understand that in America he is best known as a comedian, and here he gives a superbly comic performance, making Riggs a manic, wisecracking joker. (There is one very funny scene when, forced by Priscilla to attend a Gamblers Anonymous meeting, he enrages the other participants by telling them that their problem is not that they are gamblers. Their problem is that, unlike him, they are unsuccessful gamblers).

The second way in which the film-makers lighten the tone is by not telling the whole truth about King's romance with Marilyn Barnett. That affair could, in fact, have served as the subject-matter for a film in its own right, although it would of necessity have had to be much more serious than "Battle of the Sexes". King might today be regarded as a lesbian and feminist icon, but during her playing career she was never open about her sexuality, largely because she feared that the sponsors might pull out of the women's game at any hint of scandal. After the events depicted here, she broke off her relationship with Barnett, who in 1981 tried unsuccessfully to sue her under the "palimony" laws. Barnett eventually attempted suicide, an attempt which left her paralysed. Although King admitted sexual intimacy with Barnett she tried to pass it off as an isolated fling and did not "come out" about her lesbianism until after her divorce from Larry and her retirement from professional tennis. There is, needless to say, no reference to these matters in the film.

"Battle of the Sexes" is in many ways an enjoyable period romp, enlivened by Carell's lively contribution, although the way in which it glossed over Marilyn Barnett's tragic story leaves something of a sour taste in the mouth. Yet I can understand why the film-makers were so reluctant to explore that story, quite apart from the possibility of their being hit by a libel suit. The film received largely positive reviews from the critics, yet was not a success at the box office. It would appear that even during these supposedly liberal times there is little public appetite for a light-hearted movie with a lesbian theme. There might be even less appetite for a serious movie with a lesbian theme. 7/10

INTERESTING.

[andrewchristianjr · 7/10 · 1 June 2020]

This is a very interesting movie especially because of the real life subject. The movie has taken a few minor liberties to the original story but it is still extremely eye-opening. The struggle for women is real and the hustle even tougher. The direction has a lot of heart and pretty no non-sense.

Well acted

[scb_coldsteel · 7/10 · 1 October 2018]

Just watched Battle of the Sexes. Overall it was a pretty solid movie. The film tells the true story of a infamous tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs. The movie uses the setting perfectly as a backdrop to deal with both the women's rights movement and LGBT issues. The acting was very well done all around. Emma Stone's performance in particular was a standout. It may be one of the best performances of her career. The film did have a few uneven moments pacing wise, but still managed to entertain. A 7 out of 10.

I liked the 70's style

[annamazharas · 7/10 · 21 November 2019]

Everything that you want to know, you can read in almost every comment. But I will tell you, that I enjoyed those 70's actors with their great play. Look at Billy-Jean, shining with her "super-cool" glasses, looking at the marvellous city views in the sunset lights, while going down in the skyscraper. Can you just catch the moment and enjoy? try!

Interesting and topical

[nicholls905-280-546911 · 7/10 · 16 November 2019]

Well cast film suffers from being too safe. The film is inspiring and showcases just how slow times change. Stone is strong and Carrell is well cast in a more supporting role. I don't believe the film captured the era or the characters motivations. This is more Disney feel good when the film should've been primarily focused on Billie Jean Kings internal and external struggles. I liked the, but it deserved to be much better. This was a film deserving of a larger audience and failed at the box office because of the distribution model. Certain films have the luxury of streaming to the world directly, and Battle of the Sexes is one of those films.

entertaining true story with a good cast

[cherold · 8/10 · 29 August 2019]

Few things made less sense than the battle of Bobby Riggs and Billie Jean King. What exactly is proved by middled-aged man winning or losing to a young tennis champion? And yet, this was a big deal at the time, as showman and huckster Riggs somehow persuaded the world that such a contest would prove something.

According to the movie, Billie Jean knew it was nonsense. Her perfectly reasonable position was that women tennis stars should be paid as much as the men because they sold as many tickets. But sometimes you have to take the symbolic fight you are offered rather than the one you want.

Steve Carrel is terrific as Riggs, with an obnoxious, breezy charm that is pretty much what I remember from the time (when I was a kid with no interest in sports). Emma Stone has the less interesting task of playing a noble hero, but her gentle steeliness and sexual awakening make her a sympathetic and terrible likable protagonist. The rest of the cast is terrific as well, and full of familiar faces.

It's not a great movie, but it's a cute, perpetually entertaining one that tells an interesting story in an engaging manner.

Interesting biopic

[robertemerald · 7/10 · 9 September 2019]

Battle of the Sexes is less a movie about a famous tennis event than an exploration of relationships at a time when women were demanded more equality. It is skilfully made in that sense. Emphasis is on Billie Jean discovering her sexuality and the strain that puts on her husband, and on Riggs's strange relationship to gambling that threatens his marriage. We also see something of a contrast with Margaret Court, a young married conservative, and rival to Billie Jean. Thrown into the mix is the battle between women's tennis and the official league, with women branching out on their own and demanding better pay on the one hand, and the chauvinistic league on the other refusing to budge. The movie is full of interesting moments and clashes in this behind the scenes look at relationships around professional tennis in the 1970s, and is well cast and acted. The characters are far from ordinary and this is a far more interesting movie than I expected. It's a feel good movie I suppose, but is based on real events and as such certainly has that stranger than fiction quality.

The match of the century

[joev-55114 · 9/10 · 7 September 2017]

There may have been some slight deviations from the real events in part ...however, Carell does a fine job of recreating the 1-man flying circus that was Bobby Riggs and Emma Stone provides a fine performance as one of the most influential Americans of the last century. The history is well worth seeing again. One can only imagine the immense pressure on King at a time when women were paid a mere pittance in professional tennis compared to men regardless of the equality of ticket sales for men's and women's matches.. King took on an iconic institution ...organized ... and prevailed. She refused to be bullied and intimidated by USLTA (now USTA) overlord, Jack Kramer and anyone else who opposed equality.

For those who were intending to see a film entirely about one of the major sporting events in the last century...one tennis match watched by 90 million worldwide viewers in the US and 36 countries ....perhaps they would have preferred to see more about the wheeling and dealing that led to the epic in the Houston Astrodome and less about her personal relationships and coming to terms with her sexuality. Nonetheless, coping with all these pressures in the time period only added to the stature of Billie Jean King. Most other humans would have collapsed under the pressure. After all, Riggs had just beaten the world's #1 woman player in May quite easily, 6-2, 6-1. But King won the high-pressure match in 3 sets. And continued the battle for equality for all Americans. in Bobby Riggs defense, it was all an act for him. He loved women and actually he and Billie became good friends following the match until his death in 1995. For whatever complaints critics may have re the direction or writing etc...the telling of the story of this battle for economic and social justice...and for new audiences to gain awareness of what occurred in the 1970s about an event that captured the nation and took it by storm....well worth it!

An Entertaining Re-Telling of BJK's Momentous Flex

[jaysanchu07 · 7/10 · 30 October 2023]

Coming in, I was expecting a deeply serious film, drenched in commentaries against prejudice ideals. Lo and behold, Battle of the Sexes was quite a surprise, as it touches on these heavy handed themes yes, but entertains with an amusing script, charming cast & transporting set pieces. Not too shabby then, for husband & wife directors Jonathan Dayton & Valerie Faris.

Battle of the Sexes' overall charm is centered in showcasing characters that are effortless to rally behind. The on point casting & Simon Beaufoy's writing see to this, fronted by an Emma Stone that delivers Billie Jean King's warmth & sturdiness, spurring her iconic status in both sport & feminist culture. The detailing of King's personal dilemmas furthers her appeal, as her anguish spotlights the underlying importance of her conquest, on a personal level. On the other hand, Steve Carrell portrays the hustler Bobby Riggs with comedic grace. Complimented by an engaging script, Bobby's showmanship & cuckoo mannerisms are revealed, rendering a character difficult to detest, with his chauvinistic remarks part of his grotesquely funny, circus act.

Apart from these, Battle of the Sexes as well succeeds in orchestrating the look and feel of the Billie vs Bobby affair. From the precise visuals & aesthetics that has the film seemingly crafted from the 70s, to the nail biting, staged to perfection tennis matches & charades that come with it, the throwback atmosphere that juggles around comical & intense, are conveyed.

Battle of the Sexes then, is easily a crowd pleasing sort, as it tackles important themes that parallel present issues in sport and in general. It does so with doses of levity and emotional conflicts, that authenticates the characters, the story & the important events around it.

It should have been a comedy.

[Irie212 · 3/10 · 28 January 2018]

The 1973 Riggs-King match was quite a lot of fun when it happened; if it hadn't been appealing as such, it wouldn't have sold out and drawn 50 million viewers besides.

So why isn't this movie a comedy? Riggs and King, in real life, were so friendly that hers was one of the last voices he heard the day before he died in his comfortable home in Encinitas. In this film, Steve Carell does a skillful job as Riggs, but the character he's given is a gambling addict, an irresponsible husband and father, and a desperate self-promoter. That does not accurately reflect the Riggs in other profiles of him.

As for Billie Jean King, she was not only game for tennis, but game for the grandstanding "Battle of the Sexes" that Riggs rigged up. She was both amused and amusing, and her character is written as the intelligent, witty, determined person that King is-- except when it comes to her sexuality. Then it's gloom and tears, in spite of the fact that her girlfriend is played by Andrea Riseborough, who could almost turn me.

If there is one thing women need to do-- and this is not a small matter-- it is to capitalize on our wit and resilience. Billie Jean King's story is the real thing: a woman who actually effected change, and she did it with light-hearted flair, which is in short supply in this otherwise competent film.