The Legend of Bagger Vance

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Chris B @Papa13070 May 15 The Legend of Bagger Vance is a beautifully crafted film that blends sports, philosophy, and self-discovery in a way that feels both uplifting and heartfelt. Will Smith delivers an underrated performance as Bagger Vance, bringing a calm and wise presence to the screen. His character's mysterious yet inspiring guidance adds depth to the story, making him more than just a caddy-he's the heart of the film. Matt Damon and Charlize Theron also give solid performances, and the film's cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty of the golf course and the era it's set in. The movie's themes of redemption and finding one's true self make it a rewarding experience. Despite not being widely recognized as one of Will Smith's best films, The Legend of Bagger Vance has a quiet charm that lingers. It may not be the most action-packed or dramatic sports movie, but its message and performances make it worth watching. Definitely a hidden gem for those who appreciate thoughtful storytelling. See more anthony m @ArgoMalle44 Jan 28 Don't know why critics panned what I found an exciting and intelligent film. Bagger is an angel -- if you missed that it's no wonder you didn't like it. Junuh is suffering from PTSD, and Bagger helps him return to normality through his golf. using an "inner golf" approach. Adding depth to the story is a boy who roots for Junuh and helps get him back into big time golf. That boy is the narrator, as an adult, played by Jack Lemon whose weak heart drops him to the ground from which he is summoned by Bagger Vance to heaven. I never heard of Walter Hagen, but Bobby Jones I knew to be the best golfer in the amateur age. It doesn't matter; they were foils to Junuh, and the games were exciting. Maybe the critics didn't like director Robert Redford. They should have liked his work. See more Marcus T @MarcusT12 Nov 9 Jaded critics don't like this tale of redemption. Fortunately audiences do. In this age of endemic corruption, it's nice to see something to raise the spirits. See more Hughe J @Hughe Aug 29 The Legend of Bagger Vance was released in theatres in 2000 and stars Matt Damon, Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Michael Moncrief, with some narration by Jack Lemmon. It is directed by the iconic Robert Redford. A very brief synopsis is that the movie takes place during the Great Depression in the United States. A once wealthy family in Savannah Georgia wants to regain it's standing and help the community by hosting a golf tournament between some famous players. A mysterious caddy arrives to help the local golfer who still suffers from PTSD, although that term is never mentioned. The caddy helps him "remember his authentic swing" and deal with his past. This was a beautifully shot movie by Redford with a nice score to compliment it. Damon and Smith were fine in their roles but were occasionally over the top and a bit cringeworthy with the southern accents. The plot meandered and dragged for me with some of the dialogue just being dull. But it was still a well shot movie and worth a watch, especially if you like golf. See more Mark S @RT52375015 Aug 26 The Legend of Bagger Vance is so much more than a movie about golf. I first watched in the theater years before my deployment, I saw it as a story of redemption and perseverance. But after coming home, it took on a much deeper meaning. The film’s message of finding your “authentic swing” resonated with me in my struggle with PTSD. Scenes I once viewed as just part of a sports drama now feel like lessons in healing, balance, and perspective. Watching Bagger guide Junuh through self-doubt and pain gave me comfort and understanding I didn’t know I needed. I return to parts of the film often, and each time it brings me a sense of peace. For me, The Legend of Bagger Vance has been a blessing—an anchor that reminds me healing is possible and that clarity can be found even in the hardest battles. See more Ken W @RT27923213 Aug 12 This movie is in my top 50 at least. The entire cast is flawless, and the script is an elegant reworking of what was an already inspired story. Redford uses a deft hand in his romanticism of the subject matter, never falling into the kitsch or overly sentimental (despite critic reviews claiming the contrary). In the words of the film, he "sees it all with soft eyes". Of particular note are the performances of Charlize Theron, who artfully captures the wounded strength of broken but relentlessly pure love, and then newcomer J. Michael Moncrief who is delightful as the story's narrator when a child. In truth everyone from Matt Damon and Will Smith to Bruce McGill, Joel Gretsch, and the many smaller parts are superlative. Legend of Bagger Vance evokes longing not just for a better time and better values, but for a better view of the world. It is a poetic work of love from start to end, and one of Redford's best. Only the cynical or jaded could actively dislike it. And in the end no one who is moved by this movie will be listening to those small voices anyway. See more Read all reviews

The Legend of Bagger Vance

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