Wimbledon is officially in full swing, and while it is the most prestigious tennis event in the world and certainly the oldest, people may be shocked to learn there’s a film set right there, during the tournament.
The 2004 rom-com sharing a name with the world-famous event, Wimbledon, offers a taste of tennis right from your screen at home. With Marvel’s very own Paul Bettany starring as a tennis pro alongside Kirsten Dunst, who plays a rising tennis star, there’s plenty of chemistry, as well as the sport itself.
It shows tennis player Peter Colt, played by Bettany, in a state of frustration after his sporting failures as he decides to retire and bid farewell to tennis for good. Although Colt can’t help but enter himself in the tournament, in the hopes his luck will turn around.
After earning himself a wildcard spot to play in the Wimbledon tournament, he realises time is not on his side, and he can’t quite keep up with these up-and-comers. Except when he meets American player Lizzie Bradbury, his newfound romance sparks something in him yet again, and with her support, he feels as though he may have one last big win in him.
A Rotten Tomatoes review claims: “Wimbledon’ knows exactly what it is – a fairly funny romantic comedy. It features an interesting plot, even if it’s very much predictable. Nicely paced, with Paul Bettany and Kirsten Dunst performing well together.”
Many scenes from the film were shot during the 2003 championships, in between matches, making it the first and only time in history that filming of this kind has taken place at the event. While other court scenes were captured at the Stoke Park Country Club – for any interested tennis fans.
A review reads: “As a tennis player, this movie was very enjoyable. It was very light, but still you wanted to watch further. I also liked how it brought humour, and all the characters were very likeable.
“I probably wouldn’t watch it again, but watching it for the first time was fun. I wouldn’t recommend this movie for people who don’t play tennis, as a decent part of the movie explores tennis matches.”
Someone else added:”Yes it’s cliched and formulaic, but the excellent incidental music, nice pacing and more than adequate skills from the protagonists make this a timeless winner.” While one viewer thought the film showed “excellent tennis” in an “excellent story” about a fictional player.
Others have praised the film for being simply a “feel-good” watch, especially during this time of year. Over twenty years since its release, and people are still discovering Wimbledon as what they now know as “one of their favourite romantic comedies”.
For those wanting an easy watch and a taste of Wimbledon without actually getting a ticket, you can stream the 2004 film, Wimbledon, on Now TV. Alternatively, it’s available to rent on both Apple TV and Amazon Prime.