Stick Review: Understated, Soulful Sports Comedy on Apple TV+

Sometimes, you come across a show that just seems to pull you in from the start. For me, that show was Stick on Apple TV+. Starring Owen Wilson as Pryce Cahill, a former pro-golfer turned coach to a young golf prodigy, this series had me hooked right away.

Pryce is going through a rough patch after his divorce from Amber-Linn, played by Judy Greer. He’s working in a golf shop, trying to make ends meet by selling clubs to less-than-stellar golfers. But his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Santi Wheeler, a talented young golfer played by Peter Dager.

As Pryce sets out to help Santi reach his full potential, they embark on a journey that brings them closer to finding their purpose. Along the way, they meet characters like Zero, a gender-fluid server who joins them on their road trip to support Santi during his competitions.

Throughout the show, the relationships between the characters are compelling, but the dynamic between Zero and Mitts, played by Lilli Kay and Marc Maron, stands out as particularly engaging. Their evolution over the 10 episodes is heartwarming and unexpected.

Owen Wilson’s performance as Pryce is the heart of the show, bringing a sense of depth and emotion to his character’s journey. While Stick tackles some heavy themes, Wilson’s portrayal strikes the perfect balance between poignant and understated.

What sets Stick apart from other sports shows is its subtle approach to storytelling. While shows like Ted Lasso may have more explosive moments, Stick opts for a softer touch, delving into themes of loss, family dynamics, and personal growth with sincerity and humor.

Overall, Stick offers a refreshing take on the sports comedy genre, earning a solid 4/5 rating from me. The first three episodes premiere on Apple TV+ on June 4, with new episodes releasing weekly until July 23. If you’re looking for a series that blends heart, humor, and soulful storytelling, Stick is definitely worth a watch.