Review of The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000) by Redbox — 05 Nov 2011

It's a beautifully romantic story based on a Steven Pressfield novel that uses a Depression-era exhibition golf tournament set in the heart if the South to tell the story of how war-scarred onetime hometown idol Rannulph Junuh (Damon) found his golf game again, and in the process, himself.

Damon takes alternate turns being likable and frustrating as the promising local gold champ who leaves everything behind, including Adele Invergordon (Theron), the woman who loves him, to go to war only to disappear.

But the jewel of the film is Smith's role as Junuh's inflappable caddy, Bagger Dance. Smith displays none of his trademark swagger, instead acting as a mythical advisor who knows the secrets of life but also has the wisdom to know that each man must discover those secrets for himself.

J. Michael Moncrief is the adorable young boy who never stops believing in Junuh and the character through whose eyes the story is told. Jack Lemmon provides the narration. Theron is beautiful as always and navigates the tricky role of abandoned fiancee who in spite of waiting for ten long years without any word, never stopped loving her man.

Redford's direction is gentle, reverent and steeped in the romance of the South and the game of golf. The cinematography highlights the natural beauty of the greens.