Movie review - The Phantom of the Open

The Phantom of the Open **** (out of 5) (PG-13) Who says they don’t make nice, wholesome movies anymore? This British dramedy, based on a true story, is about as heartwarming and charming as they come, adroitly mixing comedy with sentimentality, never overdoing either.

A middle-aged crane operator named Maurice Flitcroft, facing the end of his job due to corporate machinations, decided that golf should be his next pursuit. Though never having played a single round, he applied for, and was granted, acceptance to compete in the 1976 British Open. In his first time on an actual course, he set an Open record for the highest score – 120. That made him a cult icon for some, and a bane to others.

Mark Rylance’s portrayal of this innocent dreamer from the lower class is award-worthy. He gets excellent support from most of his family (Sally Hawkins contributes her usual first-rate work as his wife), as he encourages all of them to aim high in their lives. His character reminds me of the positive-thinking, odds-defying father in the delightful Australian comedy, The Castle, though this film offers fewer laughs than that one. But Flitcroft’s story from the Open and beyond is a joy to watch, including the downer parts of what occurred along the way.

The closing credits include clips of the actual Flitcroft, showing how closely Rylance resembles his looks as well as capturing his spirit. Well done, chaps.

(In theaters 6/17/22)