Several movies have been made about the game of golf, and many may be tempted to critique the golf and players in these movies. For the avid golfer, be aware of your motives if you find yourself continually anxious to pick up the next golf movie. Although these movies may be entertaining, if it is instruction that you seek, you will probably find yourself quite disappointed. Thanks to Hollywood magic, golfers in movies do not make bad swings unless they are supposed to. But, watching golf in a movie does have this uncanny ability to motivate current golfers as well as those still considering the game.

Hollywood will make a movie about almost any subject, and the game of golf is no exception. However, some golf movies are good while others are not, though this is up to the movie-watcher as a good golf movie to one may get two thumbs down to another.

The movie "Tin Cup" starring Kevin Costner revolves around legendary golfer Roy McAvoy. Although we do not know how he achieved his legendary status, it is known that he has a habit for not finishing anything. The movie fun begins when McAvoy meets a local psychologist, Rene Russo. Eventually, "Cup" as he is often called, qualifies for the U.S. Open which, theoretically, is possible but unlikely. The U.S. Open is difficult enough for tour plays not to mention driving range players. The movie is fairly enjoyable with Costner's fiasco at the U.S. Open and encouragement from Russo.

Will Smith started in another golfing movie, "The Legend of Bagger Vance" in which he helps Matt Damon learn who he is and what is important through the game of golf. The movie starts with Charlize Theron's father killing himself after building the golf course yet only for the Depression to come. Theron gets the characters Jones and Hagen to play in a tournament, but since the local leaders insist on a local golfer playing in the tournament, Matt Damon's character finds himself in a golf match. Ultimately, there is a tie at the end of the game. The romance between Damon and Theron is enjoyable, as well as the spiritual guidance Smith's character provides throughout the movie.

Finally, Adam Sander's movie "Happy Gilmore" is comical as would be expected. A failed hockey player, Sandler tries golf and soon finds that he is a natural golfer. However, no golfer should try the shots "Gilmore" tries to make in the movie. Not only will he or she look ridiculous, they could get hurt with his style of hopping toward the ball. This is fine for the movie, though, as it is not intended to be a serious movie. Sandler's tendency toward comedy is obvious throughout the movie and may be a good laugh for any golfer.

As you see, though, golf movies are for entertainment. If improved performance on the course is what you seek, you would be much better off grabbing your golf clubs and heading out to the course to practice golf. But, if a laugh or some inspiration is what you desire, a may be the answer!