It's Metaphysics 101

Rating: 10/10 (6 November 2000)

If you think this movie is about golf you probably don't know what metaphysics is. Metaphysics is about things that are beyond our limited physical world. There are an increasing number of people who believe in metaphysics which has its roots in Eastern philosophies. By far and away the largest number of openly practicing metaphysicians are in California with the Los Angeles area having many large metaphysical churches.
Over the years I have noticed metaphysics creeping into more and more film plots, overtly in "Powder" and "Phenomenon" and more subtly in the seemingly violent and gory "Gladiator."
Bagger Vance could well be shown in a Metaphysics 101 class. All of the basics are there - the Force is within us - Each has to find their own path - as you really believe, so it is - our souls live on (as in Titanic's theme song) - you have to get out of the way and let the Force (in this case the Field) take over - and of course from decades ago, the Force is with us always.
Whether the teacher appears as an old bearded white guy named Obi or a young black guy named Bagger is relevant only to illustrate that it is not the surface, but what lies beneath, that is real.
If you happen to be tuned in to any form of metaphysics at all, DO NOT MISS this wonderful film. If you are firmly rooted in this earthly reality, you will probably see Bagger Vance as a boring, ridiculous movie about golf. You will find plenty of comments posted here to support that position.
Regardless of your own philosophical, spiritual leanings, you should find the film well directed, well acted, well photographed, and well scored. If you pay close attention, you might even catch some insights of Truth.