Screenwriter Ronald Bronstein and director Josh Safdie — who previously collaborated on Daddy Longlegs, Heaven Knows What, Good Time, and Uncut Gems — draw inspiration from the life of Marty Reisman (1930–2012).

Here with the surname Mauser and portrayed by Timothée Chalamet — a role that earned him both a Golden Globe and a Critics Choice Award — the film tells a story of determination, talent, and obsession. Marty, a humble and determined shoe salesman, emerges as a prodigious ping-pong player, making history in the sport and becoming a legend in both professional and underground tournaments, as well as in his ongoing clashes with the authorities.

Gwyneth Paltrow, Odessa A’zion, Kevin O’Leary, Tyler, The Creator, Abel Ferrara, Fran Drescher, Penn Jillette, and Sandra Bernhard complete the cast.