Timothée Chalamet Marty Supreme Oscar conversations have intensified as critics tout Chalamet’s lead role in the new sports dramedy, placing it firmly ahead of Dune: Part Two for major awards consideration this year. Marty Supreme, released by A24 as its most expensive project, has garnered a remarkable 95% on Rotten Tomatoes, underscoring Chalamet’s growing stature and positioning the film as a prominent contender in a competitive Oscar season.
Chalamet’s Latest Performance Draws Widespread Accolades
Nearly a year after Timothée Chalamet’s Best Actor nomination for A Complete Unknown, attention has shifted to his portrayal of Marty Mauser in Marty Supreme. Early reviews show strong critical consensus in his favor, giving him another breakout vehicle. The film’s rating currently sits three points higher than that of Dune: Part Two, making it one of Chalamet’s highest critical achievements, only surpassed by Lady Bird and on par with Little Women and Call Me By Your Name.
Director Josh Safdie leads Marty Supreme in his first solo outing without his brother, Benny Safdie. Josh Safdie, formerly one half of the renowned filmmaking duo behind Uncut Gems and Good Time, achieved a notable critical victory over his brother this year; while Benny released The Smashing Machine starring Dwayne Johnson, it landed a respectable but lower 70% rating. By contrast, Marty Supreme’s praise has intensified speculation that Chalamet could claim his third Oscar nomination, possibly even securing his first win as a lead actor. Yet, the film faces formidable competitors, including One Battle After Another, Hamnet, and Guillermo del Toro’s reimagining of Frankenstein, promising a formidable awards race ahead.
Critical Praise for Dynamic Storytelling and Ensemble Cast
The film stands out for its dynamic pace and twisting narrative arcs, with critics highlighting Chalamet’s dynamic portrayal supported by a talented ensemble cast. Ross Bonaime of Collider lauded the film’s strengths, noting the return of Gwyneth Paltrow to the big screen and standout turns from Odessa A’Zion, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler, the Creator, Abel Ferrara, Fran Drescher, and more. In his review, Bonaime remarked,
Even though Josh Safdie might be playing to his strengths with Marty Supreme — with the intensity, the escalation, and the lead character who lives in a deeply gray area — this is still one of the most exciting and engaging films you’ll see all year.
—Ross Bonaime, Collider.
The Story at the Heart of Marty Supreme
Crafted by Josh Safdie in collaboration with Ronald Bronstein, who also contributed to Uncut Gems, the screenplay follows the trajectory of Marty Mauser—a table tennis hustler inspired by the life of real-world ping-pong champion Marty Reisman. Set in the vibrant sun-lit alleys and smoky backrooms of 1950s New York, the film explores the consuming nature and high stakes of singular ambition. Marty Mauser is depicted as an energetic dreamer, determined to defy skeptics and ascend from underground hustler to international celebrity. With newfound fame, he faces higher risks and complex choices, threatening both his path to glory and his personal relationships.
Key Cast Members Enliven the Drama
In addition to Chalamet’s lead performance, the film stars Gwyneth Paltrow as Carol Dunne, marking her anticipated return to cinema. The lively supporting cast includes Odessa A’Zion, Kevin O’Leary, and other notable names, rounding out the energetic ensemble that critics have celebrated. Each actor contributes to the film’s momentum and emotional range, reinforcing Marty Supreme’s strong standing in the eyes of early reviewers.
Release Plans and Expectations
Marty Supreme has been scheduled to debut in theaters on Christmas Day, heightening anticipation during the peak of awards season. Industry watchers and audiences alike are eager to see how the movie—and Chalamet’s acclaimed performance—will fare as the Oscar race accelerates and more high-profile contenders enter the field. For now, the film’s strong critical response propels Timothée Chalamet and director Josh Safdie to the forefront of 2024’s most talked-about cinematic achievements.
