What Is Battle of the Sexes (2017) About?
“Battle of the Sexes” is a biographical sports film released in 2017, directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris. The film tells the true story of the famous 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which became known as the “Battle of the Sexes.” Here’s a summary of the plot:
In the early 1970s, Billie Jean King (played by Emma Stone) is a top-ranked women’s tennis player who is frustrated by the gender inequality in the sport. Despite her success, she faces discrimination in prize money and opportunities compared to male players. Meanwhile, Bobby Riggs (played by Steve Carell) is a former tennis champion who, in his middle age, seeks attention and financial gain by challenging top female players to matches, claiming that men are superior athletes.
Bobby Riggs proposes a highly publicized match against Billie Jean King, which he dubs the “Battle of the Sexes.” Billie Jean initially declines but eventually agrees to the match as a way to fight for gender equality in tennis and prove that women can compete at the highest level.
As the match draws near, both Billie Jean and Bobby face personal struggles. Billie Jean grapples with her sexuality and begins a romantic relationship with Marilyn Barnett, while Bobby’s gambling addiction puts a strain on his marriage. Despite their personal challenges, both athletes are determined to win the highly anticipated match.
The “Battle of the Sexes” match takes place on September 20, 1973, at the Houston Astrodome, and it becomes a cultural phenomenon, drawing massive media attention and a record-breaking television audience. In a historic victory, Billie Jean King defeats Bobby Riggs in straight sets, cementing her status as a feminist icon and a trailblazer for women’s rights in sports.
“Battle of the Sexes” explores themes of gender equality, perseverance, and the power of sport to effect social change. It celebrates the legacy of Billie Jean King and her role in breaking down barriers for female athletes, while also examining the personal struggles faced by both King and Riggs leading up to the iconic match.
Reasons to Watch It
There are several compelling reasons to watch “Battle of the Sexes”:
- Inspiring True Story:
- The film depicts the real-life events surrounding the historic 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which became a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality in sports. Watching their story unfold on screen is not only entertaining but also inspiring.
- Talented Cast:
- “Battle of the Sexes” features a talented cast, including Emma Stone as Billie Jean King and Steve Carell as Bobby Riggs. Their performances bring depth and authenticity to the characters, making the film both engaging and emotionally resonant.
- Exploration of Gender Equality:
- The film explores important themes of gender equality and feminism, highlighting the challenges faced by women in sports and society during the 1970s. It provides insight into the struggles and triumphs of Billie Jean King as she fights for equal rights both on and off the tennis court.
- Historical Significance:
- The “Battle of the Sexes” match was a landmark event in the history of sports and gender relations. Watching the match play out on screen offers viewers a glimpse into this significant moment and its impact on the cultural landscape.
- Captivating Sports Drama:
- Even for those who may not be avid tennis fans, “Battle of the Sexes” delivers gripping sports drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The tension and excitement leading up to the match, as well as the thrilling gameplay itself, make for a compelling cinematic experience.
- Empowering Message:
- At its core, “Battle of the Sexes” is a story about empowerment and standing up for what you believe in. Billie Jean King’s courage and determination in the face of adversity serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for equality and justice.
Overall, “Battle of the Sexes” is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that offers a mix of sports drama, historical insight, and social commentary. Whether you’re a fan of tennis, interested in feminist history, or simply enjoy compelling storytelling, this film has something to offer for everyone.
Is the Movie a Real or Fictional Story?
“Battle of the Sexes” is based on a real-life event—the 1973 tennis match between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, which became known as the “Battle of the Sexes.” While the film takes artistic liberties and dramatizes certain aspects of the story for entertainment purposes, the overall plot and key events are grounded in historical fact. Therefore, “Battle of the Sexes” can be classified as a dramatized retelling of a true story rather than a purely fictional narrative.
Is It Critically Panned or Acclaimed?
“Battle of the Sexes” received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release. While it wasn’t universally acclaimed, it was well-received for its performances, particularly Emma Stone’s portrayal of Billie Jean King, and its exploration of the social and political context surrounding the iconic tennis match.
On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of around 85%, with the consensus stating, “Battle of the Sexes turns real-life events into a crowd-pleasing, well-acted dramedy that ably entertains while smartly serving up a volley of present-day parallels.”
Similarly, on Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 73 out of 100, indicating generally favorable reviews.
While “Battle of the Sexes” may not have reached the same level of critical acclaim as some other biographical films, it was praised for its performances, direction, and handling of its subject matter. Overall, it can be considered more positively received than panned.
What Does the Movie Explore?
“Battle of the Sexes” explores several themes and topics, including:
- Gender Equality:
- At its core, the film examines the issue of gender equality, both in sports and society at large. It highlights the challenges faced by women in tennis during the 1970s, such as unequal pay and limited opportunities, and the broader struggle for equal rights and recognition.
- Feminism:
- The movie delves into the feminist movement of the 1970s and the role of women like Billie Jean King in fighting for women’s rights. It portrays King as a feminist icon who challenged gender norms and advocated for equal treatment and representation in sports.
- Identity and Self-Discovery: ”
- Battle of the Sexes” explores Billie Jean King’s personal journey of self-discovery, including her struggle with her sexuality and her decision to embrace her identity as a lesbian. The film depicts King’s relationship with Marilyn Barnett and the impact it had on her personal and professional life.
- Media and Public Perception:
- The movie examines the role of the media and public perception in shaping the narrative surrounding the “Battle of the Sexes” match. It portrays the intense media scrutiny and public interest in the match, as well as the ways in which it was framed as a cultural event with broader implications beyond tennis.
- Pressure and Expectations:
- “Battle of the Sexes” also explores the pressure and expectations placed on athletes like Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, both in terms of their performance on the court and their representation of larger social and political issues. It highlights the personal and professional stakes involved in the match and the impact it had on the participants’ lives.
Overall, “Battle of the Sexes” is a multifaceted film that addresses complex themes such as gender equality, feminism, identity, and the power of sports to effect social change. Through its portrayal of the iconic tennis match and the individuals involved, the movie offers insight into a pivotal moment in the history of women’s sports and the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition.
Memorable Moments in the Movie
“Battle of the Sexes” contains several memorable moments that capture the essence of the story and its characters. Here are some notable moments from the film:
- The Initial Challenge:
- One of the most memorable moments in the movie is when Bobby Riggs (played by Steve Carell) first challenges Billie Jean King (played by Emma Stone) to a match, igniting a media frenzy and sparking debate about gender equality in sports.
- The Press Conference:
- The press conference scene, where Billie Jean King confronts Bobby Riggs and accepts his challenge in front of a throng of reporters, is a powerful moment that sets the stage for the Battle of the Sexes match.
- Billie Jean’s Personal Struggle:
- Throughout the film, we see Billie Jean King grappling with her personal life, including her burgeoning relationship with Marilyn Barnett and her struggle to come to terms with her sexuality. These intimate moments add depth to her character and provide insight into the challenges she faced off the court.
- The Match Build-Up:
- As the date of the Battle of the Sexes match approaches, tension builds on both sides. Viewers witness the preparations and training regimens of both Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs as they ready themselves for the highly anticipated showdown.
- The Astrodome Match:
- The climax of the film is, of course, the Battle of the Sexes match itself, which takes place in the Houston Astrodome. The electrifying atmosphere, the intensity of the competition, and the significance of the moment make this scene a standout in the film.
- Billie Jean’s Victory:
- The moment when Billie Jean King emerges victorious over Bobby Riggs in the Battle of the Sexes match is a triumphant and empowering moment. It symbolizes not only her personal victory on the tennis court but also a larger victory for gender equality and women’s rights.
These memorable moments, among others, contribute to the overall impact and resonance of “Battle of the Sexes,” making it a compelling and inspiring film about courage, determination, and the fight for equality.
Streaming Platforms to Watch the Movie From
“Battle of the Sexes” may be available for streaming on various platforms, but availability may vary depending on your region and the specific licensing agreements. Here are some popular streaming platforms where you might find the movie:
- HBO Max:
- “Battle of the Sexes” may be available for streaming on HBO Max, which is WarnerMedia’s streaming service. Depending on your region and subscription plan, you may have access to the movie as part of the platform’s library.
- Amazon Prime Video:
- Amazon Prime Video sometimes offers the option to rent or purchase digital copies of movies, including “Battle of the Sexes.” Check the platform to see if the movie is available for digital rental or purchase.
- iTunes/Apple TV:
- iTunes or Apple TV often provides the option to rent or purchase digital copies of movies. You can check the platform to see if “Battle of the Sexes” is available for digital rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies & TV:
- Google Play Movies & TV allows users to rent or buy digital copies of movies. Check the platform to see if “Battle of the Sexes” is available for digital rental or purchase.
- Vudu:
- Vudu is a digital video service that offers a wide selection of movies for rental or purchase. Check the platform to see if “Battle of the Sexes” is available for rental or purchase.
- Microsoft Store:
- The Microsoft Store also offers digital copies of movies for rental or purchase. You can check the platform to see if “Battle of the Sexes” is available.
- Redbox On Demand:
- Redbox On Demand offers the option to rent or buy digital copies of movies. Check the platform to see if “Battle of the Sexes” is available for rental or purchase.
Please note that streaming availability is subject to change, and new platforms may acquire streaming rights over time. It’s a good idea to check multiple platforms or use streaming search engines to find the most up-to-date information on where to watch “Battle of the Sexes” in your area.
