Filmmaker Josh Greenbaum found inspiration for his new Apple TV+ movie, The Dink, in the rapidly growing sport of pickleball. The film, which premieres this Friday, explores the comedic and emotional sides of a game that has surged in popularity across the United States, appealing to a broad range of players from young children to seniors and celebrities alike.

Greenbaum, 47, said his initial experience on a pickleball court revealed a pastime that can quickly shift from casual fun to intense competition, often evoking strong emotions. This dynamic served as fertile material for the film, which centers on two characters navigating reinvention and personal growth through the game.

The Dink follows Dusty, portrayed by Jake Johnson, a former tennis prodigy who struggles with letting go of his past achievements, much to the frustration of his father, played by Ed Harris. Alongside him is Candace (Mary Steenburgen), a divorcee who finds newfound passion and purpose in pickleball during a transitional phase in her life. The story, penned by Sean Clements and produced by Ben Stiller, delves into themes of ego, friendship, and self-discovery across generations.

Greenbaum noted an underlying tension between tennis and pickleball, often characterized by competition for limited resources such as courts. He described this rivalry as a unique backdrop for comedy, highlighting how the older tennis establishment and the emerging pickleball community sometimes clash. The film touches on this intergenerational conflict, with tennis representing tradition and pickleball embodying a fresh, evolving sport.

The sport’s signature move, the “dink” — a gentle, controlled shot that arcs the ball just over the net — lends the film its title. Greenbaum emphasized that pickleball’s accessibility and social nature make it an appealing activity for all ages and skill levels, a notion echoed by Steenburgen, who is herself an enthusiastic player at 73.

In addition to the primary cast, the film features former tennis champion Andy Roddick, adding authenticity to the depiction of the sport’s crossover appeal. Johnson said his character’s journey through pickleball underscores a broader message of pursuing happiness and personal fulfillment, regardless of age or circumstance.

Both Greenbaum and his team hope The Dink will spur increased interest in pickleball, encouraging viewers to explore a game that combines humor, competitive spirit, and community.