The Phantom of the Open
Maurice Flitcroft, a dreamer and unrelenting optimist, managed to gain entry to The British Open Golf Championship Qualifying in 1976 and subsequently shot the worst round in Open history, becoming a folk hero in the process.
Mark Rylance embraces this role with endearing charm and humility throughout a film that is beaming with heart and a crowd-pleasing message surrounding family values. Rylance’s performance is consistent throughout, from the opening moment when he asks for six-sugars in his cup of tea to the satisfying final moments that allow you to admire the accuracy of his portrayal.
The Phantom of the Open contains elements one has come to expect of a class-portrayal film set in a small English town. Like Billy Elliot, Kinky Boots and the Full Monty, this film is full of ‘fish-out-of-water’ moments led by incredibly likeable and unassuming characters.
Coming into this film with little knowledge of Maurice Flitcroft, it was a refreshing take and a very comedic expose on the mentality and approach from Golf clubs and organisations. Not dissimilar to the message of Happy Gilmore, the Phantom of the Open takes a more measured approach to telling its story, letting the humility and arguable naivety of the Flitcroft’s drive the plot forward.
Sally Hawkins truly shines in her supporting role as a (very) supportive wife and Rhys Ifans portrays the role of Keith Mackenzie, the all-important British Open official with the right balance of villainy and comedy.
Without spoiling the film, this movie was truly enjoyable and one that can be enjoyed by all members of the family. You will enjoy this film whether you are an expert at golf or not – after all, practice is the road to perfection.