Best Golf Movies and Documentaries: A Watchlist for Every Golfer
Whether you're rained out, recovering from a long round, or just looking for motivation, there's something about a good golf movie or documentary that hits the sweet spot. From comedies to biopics and behind-the-scenes looks at legends, golf on screen has delivered some true gems. Here’s a curated list of the best golf films and documentaries to inspire, entertain, and maybe even improve your mental game.
The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
Genre: Drama
Starring: Will Smith, Matt Damon, Charlize Theron
Set in the 1930s, this film follows a disillusioned war veteran (Damon) rediscovering his golf game with the help of a mysterious caddie (Smith). It’s part sports movie, part spiritual allegory, and all beautifully shot Southern charm.
Caddyshack (1980)
Genre: Comedy
Starring: Chevy Chase, Bill Murray, Rodney Dangerfield
This cult classic is less about pure golf and more about chaos on the country club green. Still, it’s iconic and endlessly quotable—every golfer should watch it at least once.
The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
Genre: Biographical Drama
Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Stephen Dillane
Based on the true story of Francis Ouimet, a working-class amateur who shocked the world by winning the 1913 U.S. Open. This movie captures the heart and grit of golf’s early days.
Happy Gilmore (1996)
Genre: Sports Comedy
Starring: Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald
A hockey player with anger issues and a killer drive enters the golf world. It’s absurd, it’s slapstick—and it’s a golf culture phenomenon.
Tiger (2021, HBO Documentary)
Genre: Sports Documentary
Runtime: 2 episodes (~3 hours total)
This two-part doc dives deep into the rise, fall, and return of Tiger Woods. It’s unflinching, dramatic, and reveals the price of genius-level talent.
Full Swing (2023, Netflix)
Genre: Sports Docuseries
Seasons: 1 (with more confirmed)
Think “Drive to Survive” for golf. This immersive Netflix series follows PGA Tour players through highs, lows, and LIV Golf drama.
Tin Cup (1996)
Genre: Romantic Comedy/Sports
Starring: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo
A washed-up driving range pro gets a second shot at greatness. It's funny, romantic, and surprisingly accurate in its depiction of the mental side of golf.
Seve: The Movie (2014)
Genre: Biographical Documentary
Focus: Seve Ballesteros
This hybrid documentary and dramatization tells the story of one of golf’s most creative and charismatic players. From humble beginnings in Spain to major championships, Seve’s story is inspirational.
Loopers: The Caddie's Long Walk (2019)
Genre: Documentary
Narrated by: Bill Murray
A love letter to caddies, this documentary explores their history, impact, and the emotional connections forged on the course.
Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004)
Genre: Biographical Drama
Starring: Jim Caviezel
Tells the life story of Bobby Jones, the only player to win the Grand Slam in a single year. It’s a thoughtful tribute to a gentleman of the game.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're drawn to comedy, drama, or real-life heroes, there’s a golf movie for every mood. These films don’t just capture the game—they reflect the spirit, struggles, and soul of what makes golf so compelling.
