It’s the perfect excuse (as if you need one) to hit the links! April 10th marks National Golfer’s Day, a celebration of the sport that has challenged and delighted players for centuries. The day recognizes the rich history of golf, which dates back to the 15th century in Scotland, and honors casual and professional golfers.
However, if you’re in the Northeast or anywhere else where the ground is still squishy, you might not be able to tee off just yet. Don’t worry. Instead of heading to the course, sit back and enjoy one of these top 10 fantastic golf movies, plus one of my extra cheesy, funny favorites.
Top 10 Golf Movies
1. Caddyshack (1980)
Director: Harold Ramis | Writers: Brian Doyle-Murray, Harold Ramis, Douglas Kenney | Stars: Chevy Chase (Ty Webb), Rodney Dangerfield (Al Czervik), Bill Murray (Carl Spackler), Ted Knight (Judge Smails)
Caddyshack is a cult classic that takes a satirical look at life at an exclusive country club. The film follows a colorful group of characters, including the eccentric Ty Webb (Chase), the brash and wealthy Al Czervik (Dangerfield), and the obsessed groundskeeper Carl Spackler (Murray) who is on a mission to take down a pesky gopher. The movie centers around the antics of the country club’s members and staff, especially the young caddy Danny Noonan (O’Keefe), who is trying to figure out where he belongs in the chaos of the club. Known for its outrageous humor, it also features some of the funniest quotes in film history, including the infamous line by Carl Spackler. Memorable Quote: “Cinderella story. Outta nowhere. A former greenskeeper, now about to become the Masters champion.”
While Caddyshack didn’t receive major critical acclaim upon release, it gained a massive cult following, earning a spot on Bravo’s “100 Funniest Movies” and AFI’s “Top 10 Sports Films.” This movie has become a must-see for golf fans and comedy lovers alike.
2. Happy Gilmore (1996)
Written by: Tim Herlihy, Adam Sandler | Directed by: Dennis Dugan | Starring: Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald, Julie Bowen
Adam Sandler’s Happy Gilmore is a hilarious take on golf, following an ex-hockey player with an anger problem who discovers he has an incredible golf swing. His unconventional style and clashes with the arrogant pro Shooter McGavin make for an unforgettable underdog story.
Pivotal Scene: Happy and Shooter’s final showdown on the green, where Happy sinks an impossible putt.
Trivia: Bob Barker agreed to a cameo only if he won the fight with Happy, which led to one of the most iconic celebrity brawls in movie history.
3. Tin Cup (1996)
Written by: John Norville, Ron Shelton | Directed by: Ron Shelton | Starring: Kevin Costner, Rene Russo, Don Johnson
A rom-com with a golf twist, Tin Cup follows a washed-up driving range pro who gets one last shot at the U.S. Open. Costner’s character is equal parts frustrating and charming as he risks it all on one impossible shot. Tin Cup (1996) brings Kevin Costner back into the sports movie spotlight, teaming up once again with director Ron Shelton, the mastermind behind Bull Durham. This time, Costner trades baseball for golf, portraying Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy, a former pro golfer who let his career slip away and now spends his days running a shabby driving range in Texas. His predictable, lackluster existence gets a much-needed shake-up when Dr. Molly Griswold (Rene Russo), a smart and sophisticated psychologist, walks onto his range looking for lessons. The problem? She’s dating David Simms (Don Johnson), a cocky and successful pro golfer—and Roy’s longtime rival. Determined to win Molly’s heart and prove he’s still got what it takes, Tin Cup sets his sights on an almost impossible goal: competing in the U.S. Open.
Equal parts sports flick and romantic comedy, Tin Cup delivers charm, humor, and plenty of nail-biting golf action. Costner’s performance as the lovable, self-destructive underdog was widely praised, earning him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy. The film’s sharp and witty dialogue, particularly in the banter between Costner and Russo, drew critical acclaim. Blending sports drama with a heartfelt love story and a dash of rogueish humor, Tin Cup has cemented itself as one of the most beloved golf movies of all time.
4. The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
Written by: Mark Frost | Directed by: Bill Paxton | Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Stephen Dillane, Elias Koteas
This inspiring true story follows Francis Ouimet, an amateur golfer who took on the world’s best at the 1913 U.S. Open. The film showcases the class struggles and personal determination that shaped his journey to victory. The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005) is a biographical sports drama directed by Bill Paxton, starring Shia LaBeouf as Francis Ouimet, a young amateur golfer who defies class barriers to compete in the 1913 U.S. Open. The film explores themes of perseverance, talent, and the challenge of overcoming societal expectations in the world of golf.
In the early 20th century, golf was widely regarded as a sport for the wealthy elite, but that perception was shaken when Francis Ouimet, the son of working-class immigrants, made history by winning the U.S. Open as an amateur. Held back by his strict, disapproving father and the rigid social norms of the era, Ouimet refuses to let his background determine his future. With the unwavering support of his young caddy, Eddie Lowery, and a determination fueled by sheer passion and skill, he takes on legendary players like Harry Vardon and Ted Ray in what would become one of the most inspiring underdog victories in sports history. The film captures the tension and drama of the tournament while reinforcing a classic sports movie message: greatness is not about status but about dedication, talent, and heart. Though The Greatest Game Ever Played was a box office disappointment, it received strong critical acclaim. Roger Ebert praised it for its compelling human story and innovative cinematography that brought the game to life, proving that even non-golf fans could find themselves engrossed in Ouimet’s incredible journey.
Trivia: The real Francis Ouimet’s house still stands across the street from the golf course where he won.
5. Pat and Mike (1952)
Written by Ruth Gordon and Garson Kanin. | Directed by George Cukor. | Starring Katharine Hepburn as Pat Pemberton, Spencer Tracy as Mike Conovan, Aldo Ray as Davie Hucko, William Ching as Collier Weld, and Charles Bronson (billed as Charles Buchinski) as a tough guy in need of a lesson.
When it comes to dynamic Hollywood duos, few shine brighter than Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, and Pat and Mike (1952) proves exactly why their on-screen chemistry is legendary. This delightful sports comedy follows Pat Pemberton (Hepburn), a talented all-around athlete—especially on the golf course—whose game takes a nosedive whenever her condescending fiancé, Collier Weld (William Ching), is around. In an effort to sharpen her skills and break free from his undermining influence, she teams up with Mike Conovan (Tracy), a gruff but ultimately good-hearted sports promoter with a bit of a checkered past.
As Pat and Mike navigate training, tournaments, and an ever-growing list of shady characters—including gangsters and a hot-headed boxer—something much more interesting develops: a romance that’s both inevitable and irresistible. While golf may not take center stage as much as their slow-burn love story, Hepburn’s impressive athleticism is on full display—she performed all her own golf swings and tennis shots. (Yes, she really was that good!)
The sharp and witty script by Ruth Gordon and Garson Kanin earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, and Hepburn’s performance was so charming she snagged a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress. The film remains a favorite among cinephiles and classic movie buffs, and for good reason. It’s a lighthearted, feel-good romp with a perfect blend of romance, sports, and comedy.
And if you needed one more reason to watch? A young Charles Bronson (credited as Charles Buchinski) plays a short-tempered thug who finds himself on the receiving end of a beat down by Hepburn. Who wouldn’t want to see that?
6. The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
Director: Robert Redford | Writer: Jeremy Leven (based on the novel The Legend of Bagger Vance by Steven Pressfield) | Stars: Will Smith (Bagger Vance), Matt Damon (Rannulph Junuh), Charlize Theron (Adele Invergordon)
In The Legend of Bagger Vance, Matt Damon plays Rannulph Junuh, a troubled golfer from the 1930s who, after returning from World War I, has lost his confidence. Enter Bagger Vance (Smith), a mysterious caddy who guides Junuh in a high-stakes match against two of the world’s best golfers. The film explores themes of self-discovery, redemption, and the power of belief. Will Smith’s portrayal of Bagger Vance brings a sense of wisdom and calm to the film, while Damon’s performance captures Junuh’s struggle to regain his swing.
Based on Steven Pressfield’s novel, the film features beautiful cinematography and a soulful score. The Legend of Bagger Vance is an inspiring and visually stunning film that resonates with golfers and movie lovers alike.
7. Seve: The Movie
Directed by John-Paul Davidson | Written by Tom Hodgson | Starring José Luis Gutiérrez as Young Seve, José Navar as Adult Seve
Seve: The Movie (2014) tells the inspiring and emotional story of Severiano “Seve” Ballesteros, the legendary Spanish golfer who revolutionized the sport with his creativity, charisma, and fearless play. The film blends documentary elements with dramatized reenactments to chronicle Ballesteros’s rise from a humble childhood in rural Spain to becoming one of the greatest golfers of all time. Featuring interviews with Ballesteros himself, as well as archival footage of his most electrifying moments on the course, the film captures the essence of a man who turned golf into an art form.
Ballesteros’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. As a young boy, he practiced for hours on the beaches of Spain with a makeshift club, honing the unconventional techniques that would later captivate the golf world. His natural talent and fearless approach—hitting impossible shots from impossible positions—earned him global fame. Throughout his career, he dominated the game, securing five major championships, including three Open Championships and two Masters titles. The film doesn’t shy away from the struggles Ballesteros faced, from injuries that plagued his later years to his heartbreaking battle with brain cancer, which took his life at the age of 54. Through emotional interviews and powerful dramatizations, Seve: The Movie serves as both a celebration and a tribute.
8. A Gentleman’s Game (2002)
Director: J. Mills Goodloe | Writer: J. Mills Goodloe (based on the novel by Tom Coyne) | Stars: Mason Gamble, Gary Sinise, Philip Baker Hall, Dylan Baker, Brian Doyle-Murray
This overlooked gem blends the beauty of golf with life’s bigger lessons. Timmy Price (Mason Gamble) starts as a caddie and dreams of mastering the game, but under the guidance of former amateur great Foster Pearce (Gary Sinise), he discovers that life isn’t just about winning—it’s about passion, integrity, and the relationships we build along the way. With a cast full of underrated character actors, A Gentleman’s Game isn’t your typical sports drama. It skips the high-stakes championship clichés to deliver a heartfelt message about balance, self-discovery, and what truly matters. Perfect for golf lovers and anyone who enjoys a thoughtful, feel-good story.
9. Tommy’s Honour (2016)
Directed by Jason Connery. | Written by Pamela Marin and Kevin Cook. | Starring Jack Lowden as Young Tom Morris, Peter Mullan as Old Tom Morris, Ophelia Lovibond as Meg Drinnen, and Sam Neill as Alexander Boothby. | Based on the book Tommy’s Honor by Kevin Cook.
This compelling historical drama dives into the true story of Old Tom Morris and his son, Young Tom, two Scottish golf pioneers whose influence on the sport still lingers today. As Young Tom rises to fame, challenging the rigid class structure of 19th-century Britain, his relationship with his father grows increasingly strained. With breathtaking Scottish scenery and a heartfelt narrative, Tommy’s Honour captures the triumphs and tragedies of a young man determined to forge his own path, even when it comes at great personal cost. A must-watch for golf lovers and history buffs alike!
10. Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004)
Director: Rowdy Herrington | Writers: Rowdy Herrington, Bill Pryor | Stars: Jim Caviezel, Claire Forlani, Jeremy Northam
Long before Tiger Woods or Jack Nicklaus, Bobby Jones was the king of the fairway. This biopic follows the golf legend from his early days as a prodigy to his unprecedented Grand Slam victory in 1930—winning all four major championships in the same year. But Jones’ life wasn’t just about birdies and bogeys; it was about passion, precision, and the pursuit of excellence, all while juggling a law career. Golf enthusiasts will love the film’s reverence for the sport (and its historic permission to film at the prestigious St. Andrews), while casual viewers will appreciate the drama behind Jones’ meteoric rise and sudden retirement at just 28. If you’re a fan of underdog stories with a touch of history, this one’s worth a tee-up!
Bonus: Big Business (1988)
Written by: Dori Pierson, Marc Reid Rubel | Directed by: Jim Abrahams | Starring: Bette Midler, Lily Tomlin, Fred Ward
This classic 80s comedy follows two sets of identical twins who are accidentally switched at birth in a small-town hospital. One pair grows up in a wealthy New York family, while the other is raised in rural Jupiter Hollow. Years later, their paths hilariously collide when both sets of twins end up in the same high-stakes business deal. As mistaken identities pile up, the chaos reaches a fever pitch, leading to one of the most memorable comedic finales of the decade.
I’ve always found Big Business to be a total laugh riot, even if some people think it leans into cheesy territory. Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin are pure comedy gold—watching them play off each other is a masterclass in comedic timing. While golf isn’t central to the plot, I’ve always loved the mini-golf scene, and that adorable engagement ring with the tiny golf ball? Too cute. The mirror scene with Midler cracks me up every time—it’s just so wonderfully goofy. And the late 80s fashion? Absolutely on full display, making the movie even more fun to rewatch.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re waiting for the greens to dry or just looking for an excuse to kick back with a great film, these Top 10 Golf Movies (plus Big Business for extra laughs) are perfect for celebrating National Golfer’s Day. So grab some popcorn, pour yourself an Arnold Palmer, and enjoy a cinematic round of golf.
Check out our National Days Page: Every day of the year is a reason to celebrate! From delicious food holidays like National Pizza Day to quirky fun like Talk Like a Pirate Day, National Days highlight everything from pop culture and entertainment to important health awareness causes. At Brickwall Pictures, we dive into the movies, books, and games that make each celebration even more exciting.