As America's top female player, Billie Jean (Stone) takes on the head of the tennis association (Pullman), demanding an increase from an eighth of what the men are paid. When he refuses, Billie Jean and her publicist (Silverman) launch a rival women's league. Meanwhile, retired star Bobby (Carell) is looking for something to bet on, and decides to take on this women's movement by challenging them to a match. He beats Australian champion Margaret Court (McNamee) in straight sets, proving his point. But Billie Jean won't take that lying down.

Writer Beaufoy and directors Dayton and Faris pack quite a lot into these two hours, exploring the private and public sides of both King and Riggs. As she challenges the status quo, King is discovering a romantic connection with her hairdresser (Riseborough), questioning her marriage to Larry (Stowell). And Riggs is grappling with the gambling addiction that has jeopardised his marriage to Priscilla (Shue). There's also a superb depiction of the players' camaraderie, plus knowing comical schtick with King's understanding stylist (Cumming).

Each performance is sparky, bringing so much attitude that each actor gets to be a scene-stealer. Stone and Carell find a rich range of textures, creating two contenders who are made for each other: determined, talented and gifted at both maintaining focus and channeling their emotions into their sport. But it's their personal journeys that provide a connection for the viewer, and their offhanded humour that makes them both loveable.

Amid the entertaining interaction, the film makes its point without equivocation: women who sell as many tickets as men should be earning the same paycheque. Hearing Pullman's character casually spout sexist comments seems like something from a bygone era, but the attitudes haven't changed much. It may no longer be cool to be a self-proclaimed "male chauvinist pig", but the same bigotry still runs through Western society. This clever film vividly reminds us that, nearly 45 years ago, King challenged this head-on and won her battle. But the war is still being fought.

themes, innuendo

6.Oct.17 lff