User Score
8.2 out of 10

Universal acclaim- based on 20 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 18 out of 20
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 20
  3. Negative: 2 out of 20

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  1. MichealP.
    Jul 19, 2002
    9
    I find most movie reviewers cynical. And in the case, of a guy who has, Friday the 13, and Fast Times at Richmond High, as favorites of mine. And coming also from someone how knows the sport of golf and bowling, and motocross, and basketball, etc., etc. This movie does grab more than the cynical critics would like to say. See as a sports person. Sometimes it doesn't take an array of words to tune you in. But Only the right ones. And only at the right times. That's an insult to anyone who thought the second half of this movie was just a golf game and nothing more. This movie shows exactly what it is in each one of us were trying to find in are sport. Through a caddie, that leads more by spiritual growth, than numbers. Although he doesn't ignore the numbers either. This movie is emotional and good. Lets face it critics, well they all play their game too, of almost looking for something bad in something good. And then they also have to go out and find some crap movie and give it 5 stars. Some movie that no one else has, just of their own to get some kind of a name for themselves. Or try to make themselves look different from the pack. Even if the movie does totally bite. I never found a critic yet who is really a true to the art of enjoyment. And that's all movies are enjoyment. And this movie was about as enjoyable as you can get. Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  2. DickA.
    Nov 16, 2001
    10
    This movie is superb on every level. The sad thing is that this movie also exposes the ciritics for what they are: seashells that reflect the world of movies.. not life. Bravo Will and Matt and Charlize and Robert!
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  3. Nov 5, 2011
    9
    It's a beautifully romantic story based on a Steven Pressfield novel that uses a Depression-era exhibition golf tournament set in the heart if the South to tell the story of how war-scarred onetime hometown idol Rannulph Junuh (Damon) found his golf game again, and in the process, himself. Damon takes alternate turns being likable and frustrating as the promising local gold champ who leaves everything behind, including Adele Invergordon (Theron), the woman who loves him, to go to war only to disappear. But the jewel of the film is Smith's role as Junuh's inflappable caddy, Bagger Dance. Smith displays none of his trademark swagger, instead acting as a mythical advisor who knows the secrets of life but also has the wisdom to know that each man must discover those secrets for himself. J. Michael Moncrief is the adorable young boy who never stops believing in Junuh and the character through whose eyes the story is told. Jack Lemmon provides the narration. Theron is beautiful as always and navigates the tricky role of abandoned fiancee who in spite of waiting for ten long years without any word, never stopped loving her man. Redford's direction is gentle, reverent and steeped in the romance of the South and the game of golf. The cinematography highlights the natural beauty of the greens. Expand
  4. AndyS.
    May 9, 2001
    10
    Well Done.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  5. LarryC
    Mar 17, 2009
    9
    Fantastic cinematography and a great performance from Smith make this mis-understood movie entertaining.
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  6. Sep 28, 2011
    10
    Having seen films of this nature I was sceptical as to the potential quality I was going to see, but I doubt there is a finer example of movie magic than this. Perfectly paced movie, with the utmost heart and passion to tell a story, this movie is a pleasure in every respect. From the perfectly pitched performances, wonderful edited scenes, and the marvellous attention to detail in everything from wardrobe to cinematography, this movie crafts a masterpiece. I watch this film often to renew the experience. Expand
  7. Dec 16, 2011
    10
    almost 10 years later, but Iove this movie.. and agree with Michael P and Dick A.. why aren't movie critics called movie cynics.. It takes something dark, twisted almost abominable for them to give it a thumbs up.. I always know now, that if a critic hates it , i run to see it and likewise if they love it ... I RUN.. AS pretentious as they are, if the general public understands it and likes it , they only have contempt... I find them ( movie critics) as only in competition with other criitics, it is not popular to "like " a movie, they find that below themselves and I find them contemptible .. Expand
Metascore

Mixed or average reviews - based on 35 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 35
  2. Negative: 5 out of 35
  1. 30
    A slight, disingenuous script that robs the characters of their histories.
  2. Reviewed by: Cody Clark
    48
    Without full-bodied characters to play, Smith and Damon are left to get by on their native charm -- something both have in considerable quantity, thankfully.
  3. If you love the excitement of watching golf, this Damon-Smith bore is right up your fairway.