Best Golf Movies: Finding the Perfect Golf Movies for You
Golf is one of the most popular sports in the world, and there are plenty of great golf movies to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of golf or not, the films on this list of the best golf movies are worth watching for the entertainment value alone.
This list of the best golf movies will highlight the top options and will allow you to find your new favorite golf movie or rewatch some of the classics. With this list, you will be able to find the perfect movie for your next golf outing or just a night in with your friends.
After you finish with this list of the best golf movies, our lists of the best golf training aids, best golf club sets, and the best golf websites will provide even more golf-related content for you to take advantage of.
1. Caddyshack
Release Date: 1980
Main Actors: Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, Ted Knight
About Golf Movie: This classic comedy is set at the exclusive Bushwood Country Club, where a young caddy, Danny Noonan, seeks to earn a college scholarship. The film is renowned for its slapstick humor and memorable performances, particularly Bill Murray’s portrayal of the eccentric groundskeeper, Carl Spackler.
2. Happy Gilmore
Release Date: 1996
Main Actors: Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen
About Golf Movie: Adam Sandler stars as Happy Gilmore, a failed hockey player who discovers a talent for golf. His unorthodox approach and antics on the golf course lead to comedic situations as he competes to save his grandmother’s house.
3. Tin Cup
Release Date: 1996
Main Actors: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Don Johnson, Cheech Marin
About Golf Movie: Kevin Costner plays Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, a washed-up golf pro who attempts to qualify for the U.S. Open to win the heart of his rival’s girlfriend. The film blends romance and sports drama, showcasing McAvoy’s journey of redemption.
4. The Legend of Bagger Vance
Release Date: 2000
Main Actors: Will Smith, Matt Damon, Charlize Theron
About Golf Movie: Set during the Great Depression, this film follows Rannulph Junuh, a war-torn golfer, who rediscovers his game with the help of a mystical caddie, Bagger Vance. The story explores themes of personal redemption and the mystical aspects of golf.
5. The Greatest Game Ever Played
Release Date: 2005
Main Actors: Shia LaBeouf, Stephen Dillane, Elias Koteas
About Golf Movie: Based on a true story, this film chronicles the journey of Francis Ouimet, an amateur golfer who competes against top British players in the 1913 U.S. Open. It highlights themes of class struggle and perseverance.
6. Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius
Release Date: 2004
Main Actors: Jim Caviezel, Claire Forlani, Jeremy Northam
About Golf Movie: This biographical drama portrays the life of Bobby Jones, the only golfer to achieve a Grand Slam. It delves into his personal and professional challenges, offering insight into his contributions to golf.
7. Seve: The Movie
Release Date: 2014
Main Actors: José Luis Gutiérrez, José Navar
About Golf Movie: A biographical film about Spanish golfer Seve Ballesteros, showcasing his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a global golf icon. The film combines re-enactments with archival footage to tell his inspiring story.
8. The Phantom of the Open
Release Date: 2021
Main Actors: Mark Rylance, Sally Hawkins, Rhys Ifans
About Golf Movie: This film tells the true story of Maurice Flitcroft, a dreamer who manages to gain entry to The British Open Golf Championship despite never having played the sport. It’s a heartwarming tale of perseverance and ambition.
9. The Short Game
Release Date: 2013
Main Actors: Amari Avery, Jed Dy, Allan Kournikova
About Golf Movie: A documentary that follows the lives of the best 7-year-old golfers from around the world as they compete in the World Championships at Pinehurst. It offers a glimpse into the pressures and challenges faced by young athletes.
10. Tommy’s Honour
Release Date: 2016
Main Actors: Jack Lowden, Peter Mullan, Ophelia Lovibond
About Golf Movie: This historical drama focuses on the lives of Old Tom Morris and his son, Tommy, who were pioneers of professional golf in Scotland. The film explores their complex relationship and contributions to the sport.
11. The Caddy
Release Date: 1953
Main Actors: Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis, Donna Reed
About Golf Movie: A classic comedy where a professional golfer and his caddy, who suffers from stage fright, become a successful entertainment duo. The film is known for its humor and musical numbers.
12. Pat and Mike
Release Date: 1952
Main Actors: Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn
About Golf Movie: This romantic comedy features Katharine Hepburn as a talented athlete and Spencer Tracy as her sports promoter. The film showcases Hepburn’s real-life golfing skills and their on-screen chemistry.
13. Dead Solid Perfect
Release Date: 1988
Main Actors: Randy Quaid, Kathryn Harrold
About Golf Movie: Based on Dan Jenkins’ novel, this film offers an inside look at life on the PGA Tour in the 1980s, highlighting the ups and downs faced by professional golfers.
14. Seven Days in Utopia
Release Date: 2011
Main Actors: Robert Duvall, Lucas Black, Melissa Leo
About Golf Movie: After a disastrous round, a young golfer finds himself in Utopia, Texas, where he meets a man who helps him rediscover his game and purpose in life.
15. A Gentleman’s Game
Release Date: 2002
Main Actors: Mason Gamble, Gary Sinise, Dylan Baker
About Golf Movie: A coming-of-age drama that follows a young boy who uncovers the darker side of the privileged golf world while learning valuable life lessons from a veteran caddie. It explores themes of class and integrity.
16. Follow the Sun
Release Date: 1951
Main Actors: Glenn Ford, Anne Baxter, Dennis O’Keefe
About Golf Movie: A biographical film about Ben Hogan, one of golf’s greatest champions, focusing on his life, career, and triumphant comeback after a near-fatal car accident.
17. Golf in the Kingdom
Release Date: 2010
Main Actors: Mason Gamble, Frances Fisher, David O’Hara
About Golf Movie: Based on Michael Murphy’s novel, this philosophical film tells the story of a young golfer’s mystical journey in Scotland and his life-changing encounter with a mysterious golf teacher.
18. The Back Nine
Release Date: 2009
Main Actors: Jon Fitzgerald
About Golf Movie: A documentary about a mid-life man’s dream of becoming a professional golfer. It highlights the challenges of following one’s passion later in life and balancing personal relationships.
19. From the Rough
Release Date: 2011
Main Actors: Taraji P. Henson, Tom Felton, Michael Clarke Duncan
About Golf Movie: This inspirational film is based on the true story of Dr. Catana Starks, the first woman to coach a men’s collegiate golf team, and her journey to lead them to success.
20. Swing Away
Release Date: 2016
Main Actors: Shannon Elizabeth, John O’Hurley, Karl Theobald
About Golf Movie: After a professional setback, a golfer retreats to her family’s Greek village, where she rediscovers her love for the game and helps the community resist a golf course development.
Editor’s Pick: Caddyshack – The Ultimate Golf Comedy Classic
When it comes to iconic golf films, Caddyshack is in a league of its own. With its unforgettable characters, sharp humor, and chaotic country club antics, this 1980 classic is more than just a golf movie—it’s a pop culture staple. Bill Murray, Chevy Chase, and Rodney Dangerfield deliver comedic gold in nearly every scene, and the film’s irreverent tone still resonates with audiences today. Whether you’re a golf fanatic or just someone who loves a good laugh, Caddyshack remains the definitive golf comedy.
Tips for Watching Golf Movies
1. Know the Background Beforehand for Biopics
For historical dramas like Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius or Tommy’s Honour, learning a bit about the real-life individuals beforehand can help you appreciate the accuracy and drama even more.
2. Watch With Golf Enthusiasts for Extra Fun
Gathering golf-loving friends for a movie night can enhance the experience. You’ll likely enjoy inside jokes, critiques of swings, and shared enthusiasm for the sport.
3. Don’t Skip the Documentaries
Titles like The Short Game and The Back Nine offer deep emotional insights and real-world drama that fictional movies sometimes miss. They’re both entertaining and inspiring.
4. Enjoy the Non-Golf Themes Too
Many golf movies incorporate romance, life lessons, and comedy. Whether it’s Tin Cup‘s redemption arc or Seven Days in Utopia‘s spiritual journey, there’s more than just golf to enjoy.
5. Mix Genres for a Full Experience
From classic comedies to inspiring sports biopics and heartfelt dramas, golf movies span genres. Try watching a couple back-to-back from different styles for a more diverse movie marathon.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Movies
What is considered the best golf movie of all time?
Many would say Caddyshack is the best due to its legendary status and cultural impact. However, for drama and storytelling, The Greatest Game Ever Played and The Legend of Bagger Vance also rank highly.
Are golf movies only enjoyable for golfers?
Not at all. While golfers may appreciate the technical aspects, golf movies often include universal themes like perseverance, humor, personal growth, and rivalry, making them enjoyable for everyone.
Are there any good golf movies based on true stories?
Yes, several. The Greatest Game Ever Played, Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius, Tommy’s Honour, and From the Rough are all based on real events and offer compelling, inspirational stories.
What golf movie is best for kids or families?
The Short Game is a great family-friendly option that’s inspiring and suitable for all ages. It offers real stories about young golfers chasing big dreams, without heavy or mature themes.
Which golf movie is the funniest?
Without a doubt, Happy Gilmore and Caddyshack take the crown for comedy. Both films feature outrageous characters, hilarious one-liners, and a fun twist on traditional golf culture.
Best Golf Movies Conclusion
There are many great golf movies out there that are worth watching. They provide entertainment value and can be enjoyed by fans of the sport or those who are not familiar with it.
The films on this list of the best golf movies offer a glimpse into the competitive world of golf and the challenges that players face. If you’re looking for a good golf movie to watch, check out one of these titles.
Is there a golf movie that you think should be on this list but isn’t? Please feel free to share it below if so.
