Romeo Beckham is set to star in a steamy tennis drama about two gay rival players, which has been compared to the similarly-themed hit series Heated Rivalry. The middle son of David and Victoria Beckham stars in Forty Love, which follows the love story between two ambitious tennis stars in what will be the 24-year-old’s first on-screen venture.
First on-screen role in French film
Romeo stars as the tennis rival of Sacha Gallo (Paul Kircher) in the upcoming French film, set to hit French cinemas from November 17. A trailer for the new film has just been released, and in it, Romeo and Kircher’s character can be seen having heated tension both on and off the court.
“Sleep with your eyes open. I’m coming for you,” Romeo’s character says at one point, whilst in another scene, can be heard shouting at Kircher’s character: “It's not my fault if you’re f*****g in love with me!” Elsewhere in the trailer, the pair can be seen sharing a passionate kiss and are also seen lying in bed together.
Synopsis and cast
The official synopsis for the film, directed by renowned fashion photographer Pierre-Ange Carlotti, reads: "For the first time, he faces an opponent of an entirely different nature – love. A force as exhilarating as it is destabilising – and far more dangerous than anything he has encountered on the court."
Romeo shared the trailer to his Instagram account, with girlfriend Kim Turnbull showing her support by posting a series of celebratory emojis. Family friend Gordon Ramsay also expressed his support for the 24-year-old: “Congrats Romeo Beckham well done.”
Fan comparisons and subtitles
Meanwhile fans were quick to point out similarities to other hit sports TV shows and movies. “Close enough, welcome back Challengers in a Heated Rivalry,” wrote one. “Bend it like Beckham got a new meaning,” said a second, whilst a third added: “They saw Heated Rivalry and said copy paste + tennis.”
The 24-year-old is the only actor in the film who does not speak French, with his scenes subtitled for a French audience. Also starring in the movie, produced by Studio Canal France, is legendary French actor Catherine Deneuve who seems to be playing Sacha’s mother.
