‘Battle of the Sexes’ hits the big screen
Iwas only eight years old back when the original battle of the sexes took place. I am referring, of course, to the infamous competition between the woman’s number one tennis player in the world — Billie Jean King, and the men’s ex-champion and serial hustler — Bobby Riggs. It was all over the news, and was somewhat of a circus atmosphere. Who would triumph in this battle of the sexes?
Well this Friday, we present the truestory account of this competition, appropriately titled “Battle of the Sexes.” It stars Emma Stone as Billie Jean King, and Steve Carell as Bobbie Riggs. It is rated PG and will show daily at 1, 4, 7 and 9:35 p.m.
“In the wake of the sexual revolution and the rise of the women’s movement, the 1973 tennis match between women’s World No. 1 Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) and ex-men’schamp and serial hustler Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) was billed as the Battle of the Sexes and became one of the most watched televised sports events of all time, reaching 90 million viewers around the world.
“As the rivalry between King and Riggs kicked into high gear, off-court each was fighting more personal and complex battles. The fiercely private King was not only championing for equality, but also struggling to come to terms with her own sexuality as her friendship with Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough) developed. And Riggs, one of the first self-made media-age celebrities, wrestled with his gambling demons, at the expense of his family and wife Priscilla (Elisabeth Shue). Together, Billie and Bobby served up a cultural spectacle that resonated far beyond the tennis court, sparking discussions in bedrooms and boardrooms that continue to reverberate today.” — FOX Searchlight.
Steve Carell continues to impress me in his roles of a more serious and dramatic nature. While perhaps best known for his starring performance in the hit comedy series “The Office,” he truly shines and completely transforms for his more dramatic roles. Emma Stone also shines in her role, and I found it simply amazing at how well the two personified the real-life individuals.
As with most true stories, when I can be both entertained and educated — I feel like the film has been successful. My memories as a boy of just eight, have certainly been added to and clarified — being privileged to go behind the scenes and examine this cultural event for the spectacle that it was, and its place in history. I hope you enjoy. See you at the movie theatre! Please feel free to contact me with your comments or feedback — even an idea for an article — len@moviemill.com. Hope to see you at the movies!