🎬Battle of the Sexes

In 1973, world No. 1 tennis champion Billie Jean King (Emma Stone) leads a revolt against the United States Lawn Tennis Association over severe gender pay inequality, founding the Virginia Slims Circuit alongside promoter Gladys Heldman (Sarah Silverman). Amidst this high-stakes professional battle, Billie Jean quietly struggles with her sexuality as she falls in love with her hairdresser, Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough), despite being married to her supportive husband, Larry.

Meanwhile, 55-year-old former men's champion and self-proclaimed "chauvinist pig" Bobby Riggs (Steve Carell) seeks to reignite his fading fame and gambling addiction. Riggs challenges King to a televised exhibition match to prove male superiority in sports. Initially refusing, King is forced to step into the Houston Astrodome arena after Riggs defeats fellow champion Margaret Court—turning a circus-like publicity stunt into a pivotal national referendum on women's rights and equality.

💡 Did you know?
Little Miss Sunshine Directors: Re-partnered the acclaimed husband-and-wife directing team of Valerie Faris and Jonathan Dayton (Little Miss Sunshine, Ruby Sparks).

Golden Globe Nominations: Both Emma Stone and Steve Carell received Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Actress and Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for their transformative lead roles.

Shot on 35mm Analog Film: Oscar-winning cinematographer Linus Sandgren (La La Land) shot the entire film on vintage 35mm stock to authentically recreate the warm, grainy, lens-flared broadcast aesthetic of 1970s American television.

Billie Jean King's Direct Involvement: The real Billie Jean King worked closely with Emma Stone during pre-production, helping her master her specific movement on court and providing deep insight into her personal isolation during 1973.

⭐ Film Evaluation & Ratings 📈
⭐ Global Critical Consensus: 7.2 / 10 (85% on Rotten Tomatoes)

Praised by film critics for balancing lighthearted sports entertainment with a resonant, deeply empathetic exploration of LGBTQ+ self-discovery and gender politics.

🎨 Visual & Period Craft: 8.3 / 10

Linus Sandgren’s warm 1970s color palette, combined with authentic period costumes and set designs, elevates the film into a vivid time capsule.

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