Which golf films take the top spots? Here's a rundown of the top five contenders, with Happy Gilmore leading the pack.
In the world of sports cinema, golf movies have proven to be a fascinating blend of competition, drama, and comedy. Here are some of the top golf movies that have captured the hearts of audiences and critics alike.
First up is "Tin Cup," starring Kevin Costner as Roy McAvoy, a washed-up golf pro who owns a beat-up driving range in Texas. Roy's life takes a turn when he attempts to qualify for the U.S. Open, all while navigating a love story with Dr. Molly Griswold, played by Rene Russo. The chemistry between Costner and Russo is a highlight of this movie, often listed among the best golf movies.
Don Johnson portrays an old rival of Roy McAvoy in this film, adding a layer of competition to the narrative. The movie also features a memorable love story, making it a compelling watch for golf enthusiasts and romantic drama lovers alike.
Another noteworthy golf movie is "Happy Gilmore," starring Adam Sandler as a character who loves hockey and his grandmother. The 1996 film is highly rewatchable, quotable, and has had a significant impact on golf, with its unique blend of comedy and sports.
Following the success of the original, "Happy Gilmore 2" was released, with Sandler returning to the golf course. This time, the main plot revolves around Happy Gilmore attempting to win a lucrative tournament to fund his daughter's dance school education.
For those interested in documentaries, "The Short Game" is a must-watch. This film offers a glimpse into the world of youth sports, particularly golf, as it follows junior golf prodigies preparing for the World Championships. Notable for featuring the early careers of future golf stars, "The Short Game" provides an insightful look into the dedication and passion required to excel in the sport.
In the realm of classic golf comedies, "Caddyshack" stands out. Featuring well-known comedians like Bill Murray and Chevy Chase, this film is highly voted as the best golf movie by GolfWRX readers.
For those who enjoy true stories, "The Phantom of the Open" and "The Long Game" are worth watching. "The Phantom of the Open" features Mark Rylance and tells the story of a man who becomes the oldest person to ever qualify for the British Open. "The Long Game" is a true story about young Mexican-American caddies building their own golf course after being barred from others, earning strong ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.
Lastly, "The Caddy," a 1953 comedy film featuring Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, is another interesting addition to the list. This film focuses more on the relationship between a golfer and caddy than on the performance on the course and is notable for introducing the song "That's Amore."
These top 5 golf movies, along with some notable mentions, offer a diverse range of stories and styles, catering to various tastes and interests. Whether you're a golf enthusiast, a fan of comedy, or a romantic drama lover, there's a golf movie out there for everyone.
"In the film 'Tin Cup,' the character Roy McAvoy, played by Kevin Costner, aspires to win at golf, even competing in the U.S. Open, which can be seen as a blend of sports and drama."
"Meanwhile, the movie 'Happy Gilmore' showcases golf in a unique way, combining sports with comedy, as evidenced by Adam Sandler's character's unconventional approach to the game and its humorous narrative."
