Marty Supreme review

Josh Safdie’s new film Marty Supreme transforms a seemingly absurd premise into a kinetic, hypnotic spectacle of speed, sound, and surreal tension. The movie follows Timothée Chalamet as a gifted but erratic table-tennis hustler caught in the manic underworld of underground ping-pong tournaments.

Story and Direction

Safdie sustains his signature chaos, blending claustrophobic energy with screwball rhythms. His direction turns every rally into a psychological showdown, filmed with the same nervous electricity that powered Uncut Gems.

“Following every dizzying spin of Chalamet’s table tennis hustler, Josh Safdie’s whip-crack comedy serves sensational shots – and a smart return by Gwyneth...”

The pace rarely slows. Rapid dialogue and jagged edits create a constant sense of motion, as if the film itself can’t catch its breath.

Performances

Timothée Chalamet delivers an exuberant performance, balancing charisma and volatility. He captures both the allure and anxiety of obsession, his expressions spinning faster than the ball across the table. Gwyneth Paltrow’s turn as his enigmatic coach adds a layer of composure to the frantic narrative, bringing a sharp counterpoint to Chalamet’s restless energy.

Visuals and Sound

The cinematography dazzles. Table-tennis matches unfold in neon-lit basements and blindingly sterile gyms, evoking both fever dream and sports thriller. A pounding soundtrack syncs precisely with the rhythm of play, amplifying even the quietest serve into a heartbeat.

Conclusion

Marty Supreme unfolds like a beautifully deranged competition, equal parts physical comedy and psychological thriller. Safdie’s command of tension and rhythm proves once again that chaos, when choreographed well, can be cinematic joy.

Author Summary:
A breathtaking, chaotic blend of comedy and anxiety, Marty Supreme turns ping-pong into high art through Josh Safdie’s dazzling direction and Timothée Chalamet’s fearless performance.

The Guardian — 2025-12-01