The Greatest Game Ever Played

About The Greatest Game Ever Played

'The Greatest Game Ever Played' is a biographical sports film released in 2005, based on the real-life story of the young Francis Ouimet. The movie is an adaptation of the book 'The Greatest Game Ever Played: Harry Vardon, Francis Ouimet, and the Birth of Modern Golf' by Mark Frost.

The story focuses on Francis Ouimet, an amateur golfer who, against all odds, competes in the 1913 U.S. Open. He's a working-class youth who takes on the British champ Harry Vardon. The film culminates with the historic golf championship, offering an inspirational tale of beating the odds and standing up against adversities.

Making / Production

This compelling sports drama was directed by Bill Paxton and the screenplay was written by Mark Frost. It was produced by Walt Disney Pictures and was distributed by Buena Vista Pictures.

Actors

• Shia LaBeouf as Francis Ouimet. LaBeouf has emotionally embodied the role, portraying both Ouimet's fierce dedication and the struggles he faced.
• Stephen Dillane as Harry Vardon. Dillane captures Vardon's solemn and stoic character with a professional dignity, offering a nuanced performance.
• Peter Firth as Lord Northcliffe. Firth excellently played the role of Northcliffe, maintaining an aloof and snobbish demeanor throughout.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The final scene of Ouimet's victory was filmed at the Kanawaki Golf Club in Montreal.
• The film's budget was around $25 million and grossed over $15 million, making it moderately successful at the box office.
• The movie has a strong emotional resonance as it showcases a true underdog story in the backdrop of the class-conscious society of early 20th century America.

Quotes

• "This is for all the caddies who never got a chance to play the game." - Francis Ouimet
• "All a man has at the end of the day is his name." - Harry Vardon

Music, Soundtrack

• Scored by Brian Tyler, the film's soundtrack beautifully complements the period it is set in and successfully creates an engaging viewing experience.
• The soundtrack features a blend of orchestral and jazz pieces, immersing viewers into the 1913 time period of the film.