Romeo Beckham Makes His Acting Debut in the Steamy ‘Forty Love’ Trailer

Avatar photoValentina Kraljik
Forty Love
Share:

The blend of sports and romance has proven to be a captivating mix, and the film industry is taking notice. Following the success of ‘Challengers’ and the excitement surrounding ‘Heated Rivalry,’ queer sports dramas are experiencing a cultural renaissance. Now, a French film is stepping onto the court with a rivalry that promises to be anything but friendly.

This project features a well-known surname. Romeo Beckham, the 24-year-old son of David and Victoria Beckham, has been carving out a niche in fashion, modeling for prestigious brands like Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and Burberry. Before his fashion career, he dabbled in both football and tennis, ultimately leaving both sports in 2024 to pursue modeling.

This journey leads him to ‘Forty Love,’ marking his first feature-film acting role. The official trailer was released on Thursday, Oct. 15, by StudioCanal France, showcasing Beckham as a charismatic rival who disrupts a tennis star’s life. The footage hints at an enemies-to-lovers romance with a darker twist.

The narrative follows Sacha Gallo, portrayed by French actor Paul Kircher, a 21-year-old tennis prodigy trained by his father to achieve one goal: winning a major title in Paris. His meticulously controlled world is thrown into chaos when Beckham’s magnetic new rival enters the scene. The official synopsis suggests that love presents an entirely different kind of challenge.

The trailer emphasizes the tension between the two characters. Beckham’s role includes taunting his opponent with warnings to keep his eyes open while also revealing intimate moments, including kissing and lying in bed together. Attitude described the rivalry as taking a dark turn, hinting at a potentially gory twist.

Beckham isn’t the only newcomer involved in this film. Director Pierre-Ange Carlotti, known for his work as a fashion photographer, is making his feature directorial debut. The film was shot in the picturesque south of France, including locations around Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Paris.

Reports from France indicate that Beckham will perform in both English and French. He joins a talented ensemble cast that includes Guillaume Canet and Benjamin Voisin, along with a special appearance by Catherine Deneuve. Kircher is recognized internationally for his role in ‘The Animal Kingdom’ and has received acclaim for his performance in ‘Winter Boy.’

The film is produced by Hugo Sélignac and Paco de Bary through Chi-Fou-Mi Productions, a Mediawan company, with Studiocanal and Manna Studios co-producing. Studiocanal is managing worldwide sales. The score is composed by 070 Shake and Johan Lenox.

Producers have described the project as a sensual, romantic, and deeply moving fable that explores elite sports and the emotions that lie beneath its competitive surface. This unique tone sets it apart from traditional sports dramas.

The film is already drawing comparisons to some of the most significant sports romances of recent years. One outlet referred to it as a true successor to ‘Heated Rivalry,’ featuring a charged connection between two rival athletes, albeit in a different sport. Others have noted its release follows the success of ‘Challengers’ and comes after the HBO Max series.

Not all reactions have been positive. Some critics have raised concerns about casting a celebrity child in a lead role, citing nepotism. However, others argue that Beckham’s background in tennis provides him with a natural connection to the story.

‘Forty Love’ is set to premiere in French theaters on Nov. 25. An international release date has yet to be announced, leaving viewers outside France waiting for further updates. The film was in post-production when its first-look image was revealed in June.

This image was first reported by Variety, which confirmed Beckham’s acting debut. Since then, additional glimpses have surfaced, culminating in this trailer. More promotional material is expected as the French release date approaches.

For Beckham, this film represents a significant leap beyond fashion and sports. It places him in a narrative centered on desire, competition, and identity, making it a noteworthy choice for his first role. The trailer suggests he is ready to embrace the tension.

For audiences, the pressing question remains whether the film can meet its lofty comparisons. The combination of a debut director, a first-time lead, and an A-list French supporting cast is certainly intriguing. If the trailer is any indication, it appears that ‘Forty Love’ will not shy away from bold storytelling.

Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!

Share: