A Familiar Formula: An Overview of the Apple TV+ Series “Stick”
Imagine blending the heartfelt camaraderie of “Ted Lasso” with the gritty underdog sports narrative of Woody Harrelson’s 1996 film “Kingpin,” all set within the world of golf. The result might resemble “Stick,” a 10-episode series streaming on Apple TV+. This show follows a once-celebrated professional golfer who, after a series of personal setbacks, seeks redemption by mentoring a talented teenage golfer. While it offers the classic themes of perseverance and second chances, “Stick” leans heavily on familiar tropes, creating a series that feels more like a mood than a groundbreaking story.
The Protagonist’s Fall and the Road to Redemption
At the heart of the series is Pryce Cahill, played with understated charm by Owen Wilson. Once a shining star on the PGA Tour, Pryce’s career was derailed by a tragic event and a public meltdown during a tournament-an incident that went viral and marked the beginning of his decade-long slump. His character embodies the archetype of a fallen hero, haunted by past mistakes and struggling with depression.
Pryce’s daily routine reflects his disillusionment: he wanders through a dilapidated family home, then drives his battered yellow Corvette to a job where he upsells golf equipment, often underperforming on purpose to sabotage his reputation further. His side hustle involves conning golf enthusiasts with the help of his old caddie, Mitts, played subtly by Marc Maron. This scheme, which requires Pryce to intentionally play poorly, underscores his internal conflict and sense of worthlessness.
The Heart of the Series: Themes of Grief and Healing
While “Stick” is rooted in themes of loss and recovery, it maintains a surprisingly light tone. The series, directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris-known for “Little Miss Sunshine”-delivers a road trip narrative filled with moments of warmth and gentle humor. Wilson’s performance exudes a quiet, wistful optimism, avoiding the darker depths that such a story could explore. Instead, Pryce’s character remains largely sympathetic, with his flaws and struggles presented in a way that invites empathy rather than judgment.
The show’s tone is reinforced by its supporting characters. Santi Wheeler, a teenage golf prodigy with a remarkable swing, becomes Pryce’s unlikely mentee. His backstory hints at inner turmoil, but his athletic talent is convincingly portrayed, contrasting with his less-developed emotional struggles. Meanwhile, Elena, Santi’s mother, played by Mariana Treviño, offers a nuanced depiction of a Latina woman balancing resilience and vulnerability-one of the series’ more compelling characters. Additionally, the genderqueer bartender Zero, played by Lilli Kay, introduces a fresh perspective, adding complexity and friction to the group dynamic.
The Limitations of Predictability and Character Depth
Despite its heartwarming intentions, “Stick” often falls into predictable storytelling patterns. The pacing drags, with lengthy scenes that seem to justify plot points the audience would accept without question. The show’s reliance on familiar sports movie tropes-underdog rises, personal growth, and redemption-limits its originality.
A notable shortcoming is the underdeveloped character of Santi. His reactions often feel disconnected from his psychological state, making him seem more like a plot device than a fully realized individual. This imbalance becomes glaring when a crucial scene that could shape his future unfolds without his active participation, emphasizing his role as a narrative tool rather than a character with agency.
Authenticity in Golf and Celebrity Cameos
One of the series’ strengths lies in its authentic depiction of golf culture. It features appearances from prominent professional golfers such as Collin Morikawa, Wyndham Clark, Keegan Bradley, and Max Homa, lending credibility to the setting. Moreover, real broadcasters like Jim Nantz and Trevor Immelman lend their voices to narrate key moments, enriching the viewing experience for golf enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts: A Warm but Cautiously Predictable Series
“Stick” offers a comforting, feel-good story about healing and second chances, resonating with audiences seeking uplifting narratives. However, its slow pace and formulaic approach hinder its potential to stand out. While the show touches on meaningful themes, it often shies away from exploring darker or more complex emotional depths, opting instead for a safe, predictable path.
In essence, “Stick” is a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most important swings are the ones we take in our personal journeys. Despite its shortcomings, it provides a pleasant viewing experience for those craving a lighthearted, optimistic story about redemption and growth.
Premiere: Three episodes available starting Wednesday on Apple TV+.
