Battle of the Sexes (2017) Watch Online Free

The true story of the 1973 tennis match between World number one Billie Jean King and ex-champ and serial hustler Bobby Riggs.

Battle of the Sexes (2017) is a biographical sports drama that recounts the 1973 tennis match between the former world No. 1 male player Bobby Riggs and the current No. 1 female player, Billie Jean King. The movie, directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, delves into the personal and professional lives of these two figures while also presenting the wider cultural context of the time.

Billie Jean King (played by Emma Stone) is portrayed as a pioneering female athlete fighting against both the gender pay gap and the limitations imposed on her career by the male-dominated tennis establishment. Riggs (Steve Carell), a former tennis champion with a gambling problem, challenges King to a “Battle of the Sexes” match, which he frames as a way to prove male superiority over women. As the film progresses, we see King not only grapple with the external societal pressures but also with her personal life, including her growing attraction to her hairdresser, Marilyn Barnett (Andrea Riseborough). On the other hand, Riggs is depicted as a publicity-seeking, charming character who is willing to do anything for attention, including using sexist rhetoric to fuel the media frenzy.

The match itself, culminating in King’s victory, is a powerful moment of gender equality, but the film does not merely focus on the event. It also highlights the underlying struggles for respect, recognition, and fair treatment faced by female athletes, making it more than just a sports movie—it’s a reflection on the societal issues of the 1970s and beyond.

Themes and Impact

The film tackles themes of feminism, gender equality, and the ongoing struggle for women’s rights, particularly in the context of sports. It draws attention to the overt sexism that Billie Jean King faced throughout her career and the broader impact her victory had on women’s visibility in professional sports.

One of the film’s critical moments is King’s refusal to accept lower wages and her establishment of the Virginia Slims Circuit, which aimed to create a fairer space for female athletes. The “Battle of the Sexes” match is portrayed as both a personal and professional challenge for King, and her victory serves as a public symbol of female empowerment. The film also delves into her personal life, highlighting her relationship with Barnett, which was an important moment for LGBTQ visibility in the 1970s.

The film also explores Riggs’ own complex character—a man who was, in many ways, a product of the very misogynistic culture that he manipulated for his benefit. His antics, while often comedic, also serve as a reminder of the deeply ingrained patriarchal views that women like King had to fight against.

10 Reasons to Watch Battle of the Battle of the Sexes (2017)

1. Emma Stone’s Powerful Performance: Stone’s portrayal of Billie Jean King is nuanced and captivating, earning her widespread acclaim for her depth in both the tennis matches and the personal moments.
2. Steve Carell’s Transformation: Carell’s role as the brash and cunning Bobby Riggs offers a fascinating contrast to his comedic past, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
3. Historical Significance: The film provides a snapshot of an important cultural moment in history that highlighted the inequalities between the sexes, both in sports and society.
4. Inspiring Story: The story of Billie Jean King’s fight for equal pay and respect is inspiring and relevant today as the world continues to confront gender equality issues.
5. Strong Female Lead: It gives a voice to a woman who fought not only for her career but for the future of female athletes, making it a vital feminist film.
6. Authentic Depiction of the 1970s: The film captures the 1970s era perfectly, from the fashion to the social attitudes, which helps ground the story in its historical context.
7. Focus on LGBTQ+ Representation: The film touches upon Billie Jean King’s personal journey and her relationship with Marilyn Barnett, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ+ visibility.
8. Relatable Themes: The themes of overcoming adversity and fighting for justice are universal and resonate with modern audiences.
9. Great Cinematography: The film balances intense tennis matches with emotional character-driven scenes, and the cinematography helps enhance the emotional weight of the story.
10. Humor and Heart: Despite the heavy themes, the film manages to incorporate humor, especially through Steve Carell’s portrayal of Bobby Riggs, adding a lighter touch to the otherwise serious narrative.

How You Might Feel After Watching Battle of the Sexes (2017)

After watching Battle of the Sexes, you will likely feel inspired and empowered, particularly by Billie Jean King’s resilience and her defiant stand against societal norms. The film offers a poignant reminder of the ongoing battles for equality, and you might feel a renewed sense of awareness about the progress made in gender equality, as well as the challenges still faced. The film’s blend of humor, heart, and historical insight leaves you with a sense of hope but also a recognition of how far we still need to go in certain areas. You may also feel a strong appreciation for the courage it takes to stand up for what’s right, even when the odds are stacked against you