Phantom of the Open is one of the most delightfully charming true stories I’ve seen told through this medium and that’s mainly in part to the wonderful performance on display by Mark Rylance. 

 

Films that center on sport never seem to really catch my attention, not baseball, soccer, football and certainly not golf, so I was wary of tuning in for this 106 minute feature. However even with all my hesitations as soon as Phantom of the Open began, Rylance’s unbelievably charismatic nature as Maurice Flitcroft drew me in and never let me go for more than a few seconds. His story is remarkable, wild and spontaneous as amateur status is falsely expedited to professional status. The 1976 British Open Golf Championship qualifying portion of the film is when we first witness Maurice attempting to keep up with the true pros in a heart-wrenching display, but the spirit he continues to withhold throughout his journey to ultimate defeat and evident ridicule is undeniably uplifting. 

 

Going into Phantom of the Open unaware of the outcome of Maurice Flitcroft’s efforts is the best way to view this film and it’s certainly a film to watch. It’ll make you feel inspired to pursue your passions in life and be aware that even when defeat occurs we can’t give up on ourselves. With some ingenious direction from Craig Roberts that helps you look up to the stars for guidance and an inspirational tale from one of the talented scribes behind Paddington 2 - Phantom of the Open is by par one of the best films of 2022.