The Phantom Of The Open (2022), Dir Craig Roberts, Entertainment One 4.5****: Matthew Alicoon

The Phantom Of The Open, 4.5****

Entertainment One

Running Time: 106 Minutes

Review: Matthew Alicoon, Saturday 26th March 2022

The Phantom Of The Open is based on the true story of Maurice Flitcroft (Mark Rylance) and his aspirations to become a professional golfer in The British Open.

The Phantom of The Open is based on the true story of Maurice Flitcroft (Mark Rylance) and his aspirations to become a professional golfer in The British Open.

Craig Roberts has provided this story with such charm and uplift, therefore making the end product stand as a terrific British feature. Simon Farnaby deserves attention for the script he assembled, as it has beautiful and heart-warming moments whilst not shying away from the true underdog tale that is Maurice Flitcroft's story. The comedy packs a huge punch, as there are plenty of laugh out loud moments. Primarily when Maurice is playing golf it is hilarious to watch but there is a tenacity of never giving up here. The ideology of never giving up carries so much weight for the films overall message as it can resonate powerfully with an audience. The viewers may come away feeling inspired after seeing this film.

The pacing is on-point, as within the opening sequence you get a realistic sense as to who Maurice is and he is portrayed as such a likeable, humble and down-to-earth individual who we may relate to. We get to witness the golf aspiration come alive quite early on and the film kicked into gear at the right time.

Mark Rylance's performance is delightful. Rylance elevates the material by disappearing in the film, as you forget you are watching Mark Rylance, you feel like you are watching the real person. If the BAFTAs had not happened yet Mark Rylance easily deserves a nomination for his work here. The film deserves to be remembered come awards season. Sally Phillips gives a very understated performance as Jean Flitcroft, as she brings a raw and emotional heart to her character which allowed for both actors to have a brilliant on-screen dynamic.

It has an incredibly nostalgic 70s soundtrack that makes you feel more immersed in the world. However, there were a few visual effects sequences that felt gimmicky and unjustified.

The Phantom of The Open is reminiscent of other sports movies such as Eddie the Eagle but it carries an uplifting underdog tale at its core. A thoroughly enjoyable viewing experience.

Cast

Mark Rylance as Maurice Flitcroft

Sally Hawkins as Jean Flitcroft

Rhys Ifans as Keith Mackenzie