Drive into the serenity of the green, where eagles and birdies pair with storylines so keen.
From comedic swings to legendary putts, these tales capture golf’s heart beyond the cuts.
Eager to tee off with the top golf movies, shows, and documentaries that score a hole-in-one in entertainment?
Best Golf Movies, Shows, and Documentaries:
- Happy Gilmore (1996)
- Caddyshack (1980)
- The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
- Tin Cup (1996)
- The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
- Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius
Table of Contents
#1 Happy Gilmore (1996)
- 🎬 Directed by: Dennis Dugan
- 🌟 Starring: Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen, Carl Weathers
Happy Gilmore is a comedy that tells the story of an unsuccessful ice hockey player who discovers a unique talent for golf. He joins the professional golf tour to try and save his grandmother’s house, bringing his unconventional style and antics to the traditionally reserved game.
The film often pokes fun at the decorum of golf, and the protagonist quickly becomes a fan favorite, also attracting the ire of the golf elite. This sports comedy became a classic for its unique blend of humor, heart, and sports action.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Vudu
#2 Caddyshack (1980)
- 🎬 Directed by: Harold Ramis
- 🌟 Starring: Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Ted Knight, Michael O’Keefe, Bill Murray
Caddyshack is a cult comedy classic set at the upscale Bushwood Country Club. The film’s plot revolves around a young caddy, the eccentric and wealthy club members, and a deranged groundskeeper’s relentless battle with a gopher.
Known for its comedic characters and memorable one-liners, the film pokes fun at the stuffy attitudes often associated with golf and country clubs. Its blend of slapstick and satire has made it one of the most beloved golf movies of all time.
Where to watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu
#3 The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
- 🎬 Directed by: Robert Redford
- 🌟 Starring: Will Smith, Matt Damon, Charlize Theron
This film is a fantasy drama that takes place in the 1930s, centered around a down-and-out golfer attempting to recover his game and his life with the help of a mystical caddy, Bagger Vance.
Exploring themes of healing and redemption, the movie provides a more philosophical look into the game of golf, with Bagger offering sage advice that applies both on and off the course. The movie is known for its stunning cinematography and inspiring storyline.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Apple TV
#4 Tin Cup (1996)
- 🎬 Directed by: Ron Shelton
- 🌟 Starring: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Cheech Marin, Don Johnson
Tin Cup features Kevin Costner as a talented but underachieving golfer who decides to qualify for the U.S. Open in order to win the heart of his rival’s girlfriend. The film combines a romantic plot with the portrayal of golf culture.
Known for its realistic golf scenes and Costner’s charming performance, the film delves into the life of a defiant player who shuns conventional wisdom in both his game and love life.
Where to watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu
#5 The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
- 🎬 Directed by: Bill Paxton
- 🌟 Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Stephen Dillane, Peter Firth, Elias Koteas
The film is a biographical drama based on the early life of golf champion Francis Ouimet. The story revolves around his historic victory at the 1913 U.S. Open, where he became the first amateur to ever win the tournament.
With a focus on class struggle and personal triumph, the movie offers a dose of inspiration through the portrayal of a young man who overcomes social barriers to follow his passion for golf.
Where to watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Vudu
#6 Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004)
- 🎬 Directed by: Rowdy Herrington
- 🌟 Starring: Jim Caviezel, Claire Forlani, Jeremy Northam, Malcolm McDowell
This biographical drama tells the story of legendary golfer Bobby Jones, the only player to win all four major golf championships in a single season. The film showcases his rise to fame, his sportsmanship, and the personal challenges he faced, including his battle with a debilitating illness.
Highlighting the ethos of the game and the indomitable spirit of one its greatest players, Bobby Jones’ story represents grace under pressure and the gentlemanly essence of golf.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Vudu
FAQ
What is the best Golf movie of all time?
“Caddyshack” (1980) is the best Golf movie of all time, known for its humor and memorable characters, it’s a classic that resonates with golf enthusiasts and moviegoers alike.
What are some good Golf movies?
“Tin Cup” (1996), “Happy Gilmore” (1996), “The Greatest Game Ever Played” (2005), and “The Legend of Bagger Vance” (2000) are good Golf movies with compelling stories.
What Golf movies, shows, and documentaries are on Netflix?
The best Golf movies, shows, and documentaries on Netflix currently are “The Short Game” (2013), “Happy Gilmore” (if still available), and various sports documentaries featuring golf-related episodes.
