5 Best Golf Movies To Watch If You’re A Fan Of Sports

Golf or Golf movies aren’t the most exciting sport, yet it has proven to be an underappreciated subject in many notable sports films. From classics like Happy Gilmore to current releases like The Phantom of the Open, the nuance of golf complements films about varied individuals. Some funny characters, such as those in Caddyshack, take a lighthearted and contrasting attitude to the generally quiet sport.

Others, such as the subjects of The Phantom of the Open and Tommy’s Honour, are based on actual well-known golfers. Golf movies can be classified into several genres, the most popular of which is comedy. When unruly characters spill onto the course, the concept that golf is an exclusive activity creates a humorous situation. Though some golf films have developed a cult following over time, others have remained in the spotlight but have failed to add anything unique to the sports film subgenre.

The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)

Despite its star-studded cast, The Legend of Bagger Vance failed to perform well at the box office and has not resonated with general audiences in the same way that other golf films have. Instead, Robert Redford’s film has become known for its contentious plot and lackluster script. Based on Steven Pressfield’s 1995 novel, The Legend of Bagger Vance tells the narrative of the titular traveler (Will Smith) as he helps Rannulph Junuh (Matt Damon) rediscover his love of golf.

The Legend of Bagger Vance has been chastised, most notably by Spike Lee, for perpetuating a storytelling pattern in which Black secondary characters are portrayed as magical or intelligent, utilizing their abilities to assist white protagonists. The Legend of Bagger Vance is a must-see film for many golf lovers. The historical piece’s inspiring story, told through the eyes of Jack Lemmon’s character, is a sympathetic story about the love of the game.

Tommy’s Honour (2016)

Tommy’s Honour, a 2016 movie, centers on the father-son combo Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris. In real life, Scottish golfers are regarded as pioneers in the sport, having won multiple Open Championships and, on occasion, competing as a team in challenge tournaments. Tommy’s Honour depicts the Morris family’s athletic achievements as well as their difficult father-son bond.

Tommy’s Honour tells the emotive story of the innovative golfers, but there isn’t enough variety in the golfing sequences to keep the average viewer interested. The target audience for this informative look into the sport’s history is people with a strong interest in the subject. Still, Peter Mullan and Jack Lowden received critical acclaim for their performances, with the latter nominated for a BAFTA Scotland Award for Best Film Actor.

The Short Game (2013)

Unlike other top golf films, The Short Game is a documentary. The Short Game, directed by Josh Greenbaum, gives viewers a glimpse into the lives of eight young golfers as they prepare to compete in the 2012 US Kids Golf World Championship. In preparation for the competition, audiences visit the homes of golfers all over the world to learn about their early passion for the sport.

Critics compared The Short Game’s premise to Spellbound, a 2002 documentary about the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Still, they criticized the golf video for only showing a positive side of the young competitors’ lives. Rather than delving into the pressures that come with being a great athlete at such a young age, The Short Game presents a lighter view of the topic. Famous players including Jack Nicklaus and Annika Sörenstam provide commentary throughout.

Happy Gilmore (1996)

While Happy Gilmore may not be the best Adam Sandler’s golf film, it is extremely popular among golfers and ranks highly among other golf flicks. The comedic picture, directed by Sandler’s frequent collaborator Dennis Dugan, depicts rigid golf etiquette in contrast to Sandler’s gruff manner as the titular character. A fan-favorite example of Happy’s short temper is when he becomes irritated by TV personality Bob Barker’s comments and the two engage in a physical confrontation — one of Sandler’s funniest sequences.

Aside from Sandler’s humorous persona, Happy Gilmore is notable for the rivalry between Happy and Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald) and the famous Happy Gilmore swing. Along with Barker, a few other sports personalities make cameo appearances. Mark Lye and Lee Trevino, to mention a few, are professional golfers who play as themselves.

Tin Cup (1996)

Other golf films are dramas or comedies, but Tin Cup golf movie combines romance and sport. Kevin Costner, who previously collaborated with filmmaker Ron Shelton on Bull Durham, switches from baseball bat to golf club. In Tin Cup, Costner plays a former golfer who competes against an old college buddy (Don Johnson).

The competition between Costner and Johnson’s characters results in a U.S. Open victory. Tin Cup’s competitive framework also supports the film’s fundamental love narrative, which stars Rene Russo as Molly Griswold. Costner has been in several sports films over his career. However, the Tin Cup remains the most influential, with events and real-life golfers gaining the nickname “Tin Cup” because they resembled the film. Professional golfers Craig Stadler and Billy Mayfair appear in Tin Cup as themselves.