Summertime is quickly coming to a close. It’s time to celebrate and rewatch some of those classic golf movies. To help you decide which ones, we here at Haggin Oaks have compiled a list of the 10 greatest golf movies in no particular order
Caddyshack – 1980
Easily in the top 10 comedies of all time. Directed by Harold Ramis, this classic follows Danny Noonan and his experience caddying at the Bushwood Country Club. No movie has been quoted more out on the golf course more than Caddyshack. If you’re looking for a nostalgic laugh this summer then there’s no better film.
The Legend of Bagger Vance – 2000
Featuring a star-studded cast, this film follows Rannulph Junuh (Matt Damon), a former local golfer. With the help of Bagger Vance (Will Smith) Rannulph attempts to return himself to his former glory on the course. Overall, it’s an excellent cast and one of the few large budget golf films. If you’re wanting a golf drama then be sure to watch The Legend of Bagger Vance this summer.
Happy Gilmore – 1996
Definitely not aimed towards serious golfers, this Adam Sandler comedy is a great movie to unwind with. Following Happy Gilmore’s (Adam Sandler) unlikely rise to fame, the film pokes fun at some of golfs deep-rooted traditions. In truth, Happy Gilmore is just desperately trying to repurchase his grandmother’s house back before it is sold. It’s a hilarious movie that will entertain the whole family this summer.
The Greatest Game Ever Played – 2005
This biographical film portrays Francis Ouimet’s (Shia LaBeouf) implausible win of the 1913 U.S. Open as an Amateur. Ouimet fights to overcome the social perception of the times that golf was only a wealthy sport. This film has a great message and is a good family summer movie. Definitely check this one out if you haven’t already.
Tin Cup – 1996
Here’s a film to watch with your significant other. This romantic comedy features Roy McAvoy (Kevin Costner) falling in love with Dr. Molly Griswold (Rene Russo). McAvoy qualifies for the US Open and attempts to win in order to win Molly’s heart. If you and your significant other are both golfers then this movie is a no brainer.
Bobby Jones Stroke of Genius – 2004
Similar to The Greatest Game Ever Played, this biographical drama instead focuses on the life of Bobby Jones (Jim Caviezel). While a box office disaster, this film is an entertaining look at one of the world’s greatest golfers. The movie hits home the lesson that mastering your emotions can be the hardest battle of all. This lesson holds true in life and especially out on the golf course. It is definitely worth checking out.
Tommy’s Honour – 2016
The most recent film on our list, Tommy’s Honour follows the lives of Tom Morris and his son Tommy Morris. Its a story of family drama and the creation of the modern game of golf. Overall, it is an interesting story few golfers are knowledgeable of. If you’re a true golf fan or like to watch dramas then this is a film to watch.
The Short Game – 2013
Breaking away from the other films on this list, The Short Game is a documentary. Co-produced by Justin Timberlake, the film follows eight young golfers from the globe and their quest to compete in the U.S. Kids Golf Championship. It provides an interesting insight into the world of highly competitive youth sports. If you are looking for some interesting nonfiction golf content, then give this one a try.
Seven Days in Utopia – 2011
Tarnished at release by lackluster box office sales. In the movie, Luke Chisholm (Lucas Black) is a professional golfer who has anger issues out on the course. He crashes his car following the event and must wait in Utopia while it is fixed. There Johnny Crawford (Robert Duvall) helps him overcome his own personal challeneges. The film definitely includes some important messages and can be an interesting film to watch this summer.
From the Rough – 2011
This sports drama is based on a true story. The film is about Catana Sparks (Taraji Henson) and her struggle to create Tennesee State University’s first golf team. She became the first woman ever to coach a men’s golf team. Whether entirely accurate or not, the film is a captivating story. Give this film a look if you haven’t already.
