“Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius” (Film Foundry Releasing)
Jim Caviezel made a name for himself with is role as Jesus Christ in Mel Gibson’s “The Passion of the Christ.” Now in “Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius,” he shows he can play another man who has a passion. He plays Bobby Jones, a man with a burning passion for the game of golf.
The movie deals more with the story of the man who loved the game than the game itself. This is wise since for non-golf lovers watching a golf game is about as exciting as watching paint dry. In this movie the focus is on the story of the man and the legend he created. Bobby Jones was a Georgia man who was born to play the game of golf. He had a talent and a passion, which made for a winning combination.
With all his talent and drive Jones would appear to have a completely happy life. This was not the case. Bobby was a sickly child and he grew up to be a young man who wanted nothing more than to please his parents, later his wife, and also his fans. He was so intense in his playing of the game that he developed stomach problems. He had a temper and had to work to keep it in check too.
The amazing thing about Jones is that he never turned pro. He maintained his amateur status all his life and this was proof that he played the game out of love and not for money. For money he went to college and earned two degrees as well as a law degree. And in his spare time he played golf.
The movie is a slow paced one and Caviezel’s portrayal of the man is almost somber. He is also too old to play Bobby Jones. In most of the film Jones is in his twenties or younger. Caviezel looks well beyond that age. His acting skills, well they are another story. Jones appears to have been a quiet, studious type and that is the way Caviezel plays him. He is not dynamic, forceful, or energetic. He is just a man who went through the paces of life very deliberately.
Claire Forlani plays Mary Malone, the woman he loved. Forlani is a beauty but this role gives her little chance to show her acting skills. Mary is the wife who suffers due to her husband’s long absences, and gives him love and reassurance when he is around. Forlani plays supportive beautifully.
The movie is rated PG for profanity.
The photography and the musical score are excellent. There are scenes where the camera soars with the golf ball in flight and this makes the “game” sequences more enjoyable. There is almost a golden glow due to the time of the film and the outfits which were worn by the players.
This is not a movie for everyone. Those who need a movie with action and suspense will be bored to tears. But for those who appreciate a steadily told story, this will be a wonderful piece of entertainment. Caviezel and company bring Bobby Jones to life and make his day in the sun shine brilliantly.
I scored “Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius” a hole in one 6 out of 10.
