Golf on the silver screen: 5 of the best movies

From insightful documentaries to laugh-out-loud comedies, here’s our pick of some of the best golfing films. Popcorn at the ready…

1. Tiger (2021)
If you missed a bit of Tiger action at this year’s Masters, this two-part documentary might just fill the void. Chronicling the rise, fall and epic comeback of this all-time great, it features interviews with Woods’ former caddie Steven Williams and high school sweetheart Dina Parr. Pulling no punches, we hear from ex-mistress Rachel Uchitel and discover more about the sex scandals that rocked Woods’ career, following his story right up until his triumphant display at the 2019 Masters. A future classic, well worth a watch.

2. Happy Gilmore (1996)
Grandma’s house is up for auction unless some serious cash is raised, and fast. Cue Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore, a failed ice hockey player who swaps his stick for a club in a bid to save the property and shake up the golfing community for good. Earning a place on the pro tour, his high jinks on the course make him an instant hit with fans, but not so much with pro Shooter McGavin, who’ll stop at nothing to get Happy kicked off the tour. A nineties classic.

3. The Short Game (2013)
What lengths would you go to in order to get your child to the top?   This warts-and-all documentary follows parents and their junior golfing prodigies in their pursuit to win the prestigious U.S. Kids Golf World Championship. But who wants it more? Featuring interviews with Jack Nicklaus and Annika Sorenstam, it was produced by none other than Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel.
  


  
4. The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
This gripping drama follows the true story of working-class American amateur Francis Ouimet, desperate to show his father he can turn pro while dealing with snobbery from the golfing elite. Shia LaBeouf stars as Ouimet, who eventually went on to win the U.S. Open in 1913, beating his idol and reigning champion, Harry Vardon.

5. Caddyshack (1980)
With a crazy goffer, arrogant owner, nouveau riche members and staff who don’t know the first thing about golfing etiquette, you’d probably think twice before joining Bushwood Country Club. Follow the hilarity that ensues on and off course in this timeless comedy starring Bill Murray and Chevy Chase. We hope you don’t know any clubs like this…