The Prestige TV Podcast – Episode Summary: "Golf on Screen: 'Stick' Eps. 1-3 (Plus ‘Happy Gilmore' and 'Tin Cup' ) With Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney"

Release Date: June 5, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this engaging episode of The Prestige TV Podcast, hosts Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney delve into the world of golf-themed entertainment, focusing on the newly released Apple TV show "Stick" alongside classic golf movies "Happy Gilmore" and "Tin Cup." The discussion offers a blend of instant reactions, deep dives, and insightful comparisons, catering to both golf enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

Exploring the Genre: Sports Movies and Shows

Joanna Robinson initiates the conversation by referencing a piece by Bill Simmons from Grantland, which categorizes sports movies based on whether they lean more towards sports narratives or romantic comedies. This framework sets the stage for dissecting "Stick" and its place within the sports genre.

[00:46] Joanna Robinson: "We’re gonna talk about... whether 'Stick' is a sports show or is it a daddy issue show? This is a question we can ask ourselves."

Rob Mahoney chimes in, emphasizing the inherent blend of personal struggles within sports narratives.

[01:13] Rob Mahoney: "One would argue all sports shows are daddy issue shows at their core."

The hosts agree that golf, often perceived as a genteel sport, has rich potential for storytelling that transcends mere athletic competition, tapping into deeper emotional and psychological themes.

Classic Golf Movies: "Happy Gilmore" and "Tin Cup"

Before diving into "Stick," Robinson and Mahoney revisit two iconic golf movies: "Happy Gilmore" and "Tin Cup."

"Happy Gilmore" Overview

Joanna Robinson provides a succinct plot summary:

[04:49] Joanna Robinson: "Happy Gilmore, the titular Happy Gilmore is Adam Sandler. A hockey player who cannot make it onto a hockey team."

Rob Mahoney adds depth by highlighting the movie's blend of comedy and heartfelt moments, making it universally appealing.

[05:12] Rob Mahoney: "I would recommend to anybody whether they're interested in sports movies or not really."

"Tin Cup" Overview

Rob Mahoney elaborates on "Tin Cup," drawing parallels to "Happy Gilmore" in terms of character arcs and emotional depth.

[06:00] Rob Mahoney: "This is the ultimate brains versus balls movie... Do you go for it every single time and take the riskiest chances?"

He praises the film for its balance between sports action and personal growth, underscoring its status as a beloved classic.

[07:13] Rob Mahoney: "I loved it. Incredibly charming. What is there not to like?"

Joanna Robinson concurs, noting the film's appeal even to those indifferent to golf.

[07:30] Joanna Robinson: "But the DNA with Stick, there's so much in common."

Analyzing the New Show: "Stick"

The conversation shifts to the Apple TV show "Stick," starring Owen Wilson as Price Cahill, a former pro golfer grappling with personal crises. The hosts dissect the show's themes, character dynamics, and its alignment with classic sports narratives.

Plot and Characters

Joanna Robinson outlines Price Cahill's journey:

[16:41] Joanna Robinson: "Price Cahill, a down on his luck former pro golfer who is now selling golf clubs."

Rob Mahoney highlights the introduction of Santi, a young talent with a remarkable golf swing, reminiscent of "Happy Gilmore."

[16:56] Rob Mahoney: "Finds this kid Santi, who can just knock the ever living hell out of the ball at the driving range. And that's a direct Happy Gilmore moment."

The dynamic between Price and Santi forms the emotional core of "Stick," exploring themes of mentorship, personal growth, and overcoming past traumas.

Themes and Comparisons

The hosts draw direct comparisons between "Stick" and the classic films:

• Emotional Struggles: Both "Happy Gilmore" and "Tin Cup" explore protagonists dealing with personal issues that intertwine with their sporting pursuits.

  [08:25] Joanna Robinson: "It's a game of inches. It is the most important being the six inches between your ears. So, yeah, it's a mental game."

• Character Arcs: "Stick" continues this tradition by portraying Price as a flawed yet redeemable character, much like Roy McAvoy in "Tin Cup."

  [12:27] Joanna Robinson: "Find a different father figure, one who hopefully will not bet money on your wins or losses on your first day."

Character Development and Performances

Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney commend the performances, particularly Owen Wilson's portrayal of Price Cahill. They discuss his ability to balance humor with emotional depth, making him a compelling character.

[55:17] Joanna Robinson: "He just a delightful scamp... you want to root for."

They also analyze the supporting characters, including Judy Greer's Amberlynn, whose role as Price's ex-wife adds layers to the narrative.

[17:32] Rob Mahoney: "Feisty Latina mom, ex-wife... threading a pretty careful needle."

The introduction of Zero, a former bartender played by Lily Kay, is critiqued for its rushed development but holds promise for deeper integration in future episodes.

[19:53] Joanna Robinson: "Zero, to be a sort of Rene Russo-esque sports psychologist. Will she join the team?"

Technical Aspects: Cinematography and Sound Design

The hosts praise "Stick" for its technical execution, particularly its cinematography and sound design, which enhance the portrayal of golf's subtle drama.

[10:35] Rob Mahoney: "They do a lot of kind of drone shotting off of the tee... transforms those scenes."

Joanna Robinson draws parallels with "Happy Gilmore," noting how "Stick" captures the excitement of the sport through dynamic camera work.

[10:47] Joanna Robinson: "The camera is just like shooting back with the ball... transforms those scenes."

Music and Cultural References

The episode touches upon the impactful use of music in both the old and new golf narratives. Robinson and Mahoney discuss the strategic integration of classic tunes, likening it to the memorable soundtracks of "Tin Cup."

[28:18] Joanna Robinson: "They play the Boys are Back in Town... play a bluegrass cover of Baba O'Reilly and then ends with actual Baba O'Reilly."

They critique the on-the-nose use of songs but acknowledge its nostalgic charm.

[28:58] Rob Mahoney: "Stick is... a jangly kind of Americana in its soundtrack. And the theme particularly is the fastest I have ever gone from hearing to shazaming to downloading this band's albums."

Humor and Emotional Beats

Humor intertwined with emotional storytelling is a recurring theme in their discussion. The hosts highlight how "Stick" maintains a balance between comedic elements and heartfelt moments, essential for resonating with a broad audience.

[22:38] Joanna Robinson: "This is the Owen Wilson we met decades ago. And I love watching him in this because he's got his, like, beachy blonde hair."

They explore how characters' vulnerabilities are portrayed without undermining the comedic aspects.

[32:52] Rob Mahoney: "You know, this is a show that has a lot in common with Ted Lasso... but for fans, it's different."

Comparisons to Other Shows and Movies

Comparisons to beloved shows like "Ted Lasso" and movies like "Bull Durham" and "Little Miss Sunshine" provide context for "Stick's" narrative approach and potential trajectory.

[24:37] Joanna Robinson: "Like, that's next on my list to ask you about a sports show that is endeavoring to have, like, a lot of heart."

Rob Mahoney emphasizes how "Stick" differentiates itself by focusing on individual emotional journeys rather than team dynamics.

[13:49] Joanna Robinson: "It's about finding a balance between sports and personal growth, similar to Bull Durham."

Future Expectations and Recommendations

As the episode wraps up, Robinson and Mahoney express optimism about "Stick's" potential to carve its niche in the sports genre. They anticipate deeper character development and more intricate storytelling as the series progresses.

[59:17] Rob Mahoney: "I would encourage people to check it out again. I think a lot of people will like this show."

Joanna Robinson hints at future episodes and comparisons scheduled for upcoming podcasts, maintaining listener engagement.

[59:36] Joanna Robinson: "Our plan is for next week to check back in on Poker Face. There's been another four episodes for us to talk about, so we're excited to do that."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• [01:13] Rob Mahoney: "One would argue all sports shows are daddy issue shows at their core."
• [05:10] Joanna Robinson: "He's a perfect loser that you want to root for."
• [10:35] Rob Mahoney: "They do a lot of kind of drone shotting off of the tee... transforms those scenes."
• [28:18] Joanna Robinson: "They play the Boys are Back in Town... play a bluegrass cover of Baba O'Reilly and then ends with actual Baba O'Reilly."
• [32:52] Rob Mahoney: "You know, this is a show that has a lot in common with Ted Lasso... but for fans, it's different."
• [54:56] Joanna Robinson: "This is my favorite Costner performance."

Conclusion

Joanna Robinson and Rob Mahoney offer a comprehensive and insightful analysis of "Stick" in the context of beloved golf movies like "Happy Gilmore" and "Tin Cup." Their discussion highlights the show's potential to blend humor with deep emotional storytelling, drawing from classic narratives while carving its unique path. With an emphasis on character development, technical prowess, and thematic depth, this episode serves as a compelling guide for viewers navigating the intersection of sports and personal drama in contemporary media.

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