Once again Disney proves it's magic...I am a Disney sucker

Rating: 10/10 (27 April 2006)

I won't tell anyone that for them this is THEE movie to see...I won't tell them that hands down it should be made the best movie in existence. I will only give MY opinion which is what my reviews are all about and I fell head over heels in love with The Greatest Game Ever Played. Disney might make some mistakes here and there but they still have the magic and they always manage to get a hole in one every once in awhile. The Greatest Game Ever played is the true story of an American Underdog who captures the hearts of everyone when he beats out one of the world's greatest golfers to win the 18th US Golf open. You might expect that knowing the outcome of a film like this would completely eliminate any thrill or potential edge of your seat moments but brilliantly that is not the case!! Writer Mark Frost who also wrote the original novel keeps the story uplifting and moving and personal but still makes it about the game which is amazing for fans.
Young and rising star Shia LaBeouf who truly shined in the kids' Disney Classic Holes takes on a slightly more grown up role as down on his luck dreamer Francis Ouimet who discovers he has a god given talent for playing Golf. LaBeouf is bright eyed and easy to watch and has a great knack for drawing you into his characters. He's a real kid hero that anybody could look up to and he's got a bright spirit that shines through. Now let's mention the absolutely terrific young star Josh Flitter who plays determined little caddie Eddie Lowery. Eddie is like the sidekick you might find in most animated Disney films. He's cute and encouraging and hilarious...gets all the funny lines. He lifts Ouimet up when he's down in the dumps and is the best caddie and friend in the world. Already landing several big roles Flitter will be someone to watch because he seems like a powerful presence for a little guy. Stephen Dillane plays world class and famous golfer Harry Vardon who really is the counterpart to Francis Ouimet. They have so much in common in the way they led their life and their determination to prove their worth to those who think less of them. Vardon is emotional and has a lot going on and Dillane shows a world of back story behind his eyes. He's a worth adversary on the course but an important "hero" to the story. He does a fantastic job. Stephen Marcus is also great as Vardon's good friend and foe on the course Ted Ray. He's uncouth and brilliant at the Gentlemen's game rounding out the point that anyone can play Golf. He's also a good laugh and a great character. Mention must also be given to both actors Marnie McPhail, and Elias Koteas as Ouimet's parents...one very supportive of his dreams (his mother) and his father much more of a realist having been pounded by work ethic and those who think they are better than he is. Both have valid points and play caring concerned characters although small roles...both equally powerful.
Subconsciously when you go to see a film every wants and expects certain things to happen. When you see a film of this kind you expect a certain format and you hope that these events take place and The Greatest Game Ever Played delivers every single thing I hoped would happen and when one of those things I thought didn't happen (his father being there at this winning shot) but it turned out he was (standing in the crowd holding money up to his son like everyone was doing...a tribute to amateur golfers who were not entitled to win the purse) I cried...yep I actually did...before I knew it my tears were welled up and I was smiling from ear to ear like I had just won the championship. From start to finish this beautifully made family film never disappoints and clocks in at 2 Hours but NEVER feels like it is. The golf games are still kept interesting and the film is well kept and a good pace and it's just such a feel good film. Not everyone might love it as much as I did and I can't necessarily explain my love of it except to say it was sweet and cute and funny and uplifting and there are just so few films that make you feel that way. Disney continues what it was meant to be and kudos to them and please don't ever stop making films like this. This is sure to be a classic!! Please check this one out with your family!! 10/10