Marty Supreme review: Timothee Chalamet powers Josh Safdie’s bracing spin on the sports movie

Overview

Josh Safdie’s film Marty Supreme is a high-energy sports drama set in the 1950s, focused on the world of table tennis. Timothée Chalamet leads the cast with a swaggering, dynamic performance as Marty Mauser, a young ping-pong prodigy determined to prove himself as the best in the world. The film delivers an intense, propulsive narrative driven by Chalamet’s magnetic presence.

Critical Acclaim

Critics have universally praised Chalamet’s performance, often describing it as the best of his career. His portrayal of Marty is hailed as a “career-best performance” and “the performance of a lifetime,” capturing the character’s unyielding ambition and complex personality. The film’s storytelling and direction by Josh Safdie have been noted for their chaotic energy and expansive scope, blending sports passion with raw human drama. Critics have likened the movie’s tone to a mix of Uncut Gems, Catch Me If You Can, and Jerry Maguire, emphasizing its exhilarating and relentless pace.

Plot and Style

Marty Supreme follows Marty Mauser, whose pursuit of greatness in the competitive ping-pong world leads him to challenging experiences abroad. The narrative explores not only his athletic journey but also the personal and professional struggles that come with it. Safdie’s direction provides a “brilliant slice of organized chaos,” showcasing the pressures and arrogance that can accompany prodigious talent. The film effectively balances frenetic sports sequences with intimate character moments, making it both a physical and psychological epic.

Cast and Production

Alongside Chalamet, the film features Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler, the Creator, Abel Ferrara, and Fran Drescher. Paltrow has spoken about a notably intimate role with Chalamet that required comfort and coordination on set. Produced by A24, Marty Supreme premiered unexpectedly at the New York Film Festival to rave reviews and is set for a theatrical release on December 25.

Summary Insight

Marty Supreme stands out as a thrilling and original sports film, elevated by Timothée Chalamet’s committed and captivating performance that drives the film's relentless energy and emotional intensity.

more

Screen Daily Screen Daily — 2025-12-01

More News