Zendaya has revealed that she found having an intimacy coordinator on the set of new movie Challengers "very helpful".
The Dune actress takes on the role of former tennis prodigy Tashi Duncan in the new film from Luca Guadagnino, as she tries to revive her husband Art's (Mike Faist) tennis career.
However, when he enters a Challenger event, Art faces off against his former friend and Tashi's ex Patrick (Josh O'Connor).
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Speaking about filming the movie's more erotic scenes, Zendaya explained (via The Hollywood Reporter): “We had an intimacy coordinator which was fantastic and very helpful, because it was important that we felt safe.”
“I spoke with my colleagues so that we could find a way to feel at ease," she added. "We played tennis together, we went out together, we rehearsed together. We got to bond and feel good with each other.”
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Faist added: “We were able to spend time together during rehearsals and beyond, especially with Josh. We were able to get to know each other as people before we could get into the film. We created a real friendship that created the basis of the film.”
Related: Zendaya unveils blonde hair transformation
Following its premiere last week, Challengers has attracted rave reactions, with critics describing it as "incredibly hot" and "sexy".
Zendaya previously opened up about taking on her role in the movie, telling Elle: "I felt like it was a good step into a more, I guess you could say, 'grown-up' role and into that next phase.
"It was a little bit scary to take on, which I think is a good feeling. To be like, 'Ooh, can I do this?' You could run from that feeling and stay safe and comfortable, or you can go, 'You know what, f**k it'."
Challengers will be released in the UK on April 26.
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Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
