Timothée Chalamet delivers a dynamic performance as Marty Mauser, a striving table-tennis hopeful in 1952 New York, in Josh Safdie's "Marty Supreme." The film is described as a hyper-charged bildungsroman, one of the most exciting American movies of the year, seamlessly blending themes of Jewish identity, family, community, class, assimilation, and success with a vibrant, realistic portrayal of the era. Marty, a classic striver inspired by real-life table-tennis champion Marty Reisman, is a charismatic schemer who navigates various loyalties and pursues his ambition of becoming a world champion.
The narrative follows Marty from his job in a shoe store, through a romantic entanglement and a crime, leading him to flee to London. He dreams of creating a signature line of orange table-tennis balls and engages in complex personal relationships, including with his girlfriend Rachel and a new interest, Kay, a former Hollywood star. Safdie masterfully orchestrates chaotic interludes, filled with frenzied action and moments of instability, yet Marty demonstrates remarkable staying power and drive despite numerous setbacks and violent detours. The film also features a cast of vivid characters, including Marty's friend Wally and his combative relationship with his mother, challenging stereotypes of Jewish men.