As the widely acknowledged home of golf, Scotland holds a particular attraction for both professional and amateur players, who revere the region’s renowned courses and celebrate its pivotal place in the history of the sport. Central to that heritage are the names Tom Morris (known as Old Tom) and Tommy Morris (Young Tom), 19th century originators of the contemporary game’s most distinguishing features.
Scottish director Jason Connery, himself an avid golfer, tells their story in this captivating and amusing period drama adapted from Kevin Cook’s 2007 book, Tommy’s Honor: The Story of Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris, Golf’s Founding Father and Son.
Peter Mullan (Sunshine on Leith, Stone of Destiny) is perfectly cast as the ordered and loyal Old Tom Morris, the man who helped set up the Open Championship and went on to win it four times. He would become greenkeeper at the Royal and Ancient Club at St Andrews, where he established a club-making shop overlooking the 18th green, and where he hoped his son Tommy would follow in his respectful footsteps.
However, Young Tommy (Jack Lowden, ’71) has plans of his own. He sets out to become the “dashing young man of golf,” challenging traditions, drawing spectators and becoming golf’s first touring pro. The conflicting views of Old Tom and Young Tom lead to an intense father-son rivalry both on the fairway and as a very public clash between tradition and innovation.
“An engrossing and accessible celebration of the game’s modern origins, enhanced by striking locations and a standout cast, led by Scottish actors Peter Mullan and Jack Lowden. Outstanding production design, creative costuming and historically accurate locations enhance the overall authenticity of the film, which is buoyed throughout by Christian Henson’s lyrical score.” (Justin Lowe, The Hollywood Reporter)
“Although Tommy’s Honour has clearly been made by a golf obsessive who loves the links, it’s the rare sports biography that keeps its eye on the ball of character and milieu.” (Ray Greene, TheWrap)