The Apple TV+ series “Stick” features Owen Wilson as a former outstanding professional golfer who has fallen on hard times working as a golf club salesman and coach. He also hustles the unsuspecting patrons of various bars with his former caddy, Mitts played by Marc Maron. When he decides to coach a rising teenage star named Santi Wheeler, portrayed by Peter Dager, in a golf tournament, he has no idea that this decision will transform his life. To be candid, I am always intrigued by any film or TV show featuring Wilson, as he single-handedly carried the award-winning movie “Midnight in Paris” (2011) from beginning to end, one of my all-time favorite movies.
The Apple TV+ series cleverly uses the word “stick” in two ways. First, it serves as the title of the show and as a nickname for the main character, Pryce Cahill, played by Owen Wilson. In this context, “stick” refers to a golf club. The series incorporates golf throughout its episodes, focusing on the equipment relevant to each installment. Additionally, the title has a dual meaning. “Stick” can also describe Pryce’s current situation—he feels “stuck.” He is grappling with a career-ending breakdown, the grief of losing his son, and his struggles with gambling addiction. Pryce feels confined by his past misfortunes, and his nickname serves as a reminder of both his former success and his present challenges. The nickname serves as a reminder of both his former splendor and his current quandary.
Jason Keller, the series creator, along with the cast, elevates the series beyond mere imitation of his original story. The writing is meaningful, the characters are engaging, and the performances are heartfelt. Newcomer Dager prominently displays the attitude of a kid with a chip on his shoulder, making it clear that we will see more of him in future series and movies; he excels in this role. Wilson’s character embodies a rich array of emotions, including conflict, stress, regret, excitement, and hope, making his performance both multifaceted and captivating to watch. Additionally, the blend of comedy in this series serves primarily as comic relief. Wilson’s role in conflict, stress, regret, excitement, and hope is multifaceted and fascinating to observe.
Marc Maron as Mitts is fantastic in playing a lovable grouch, a close friend and former caddy of Pryce. He’s also the dial of reason in decision making. He reigns in his impulses and lets reason guide his actions. We view him emphasizing the concept of controlling his instinctive reactions in favor of thoughtful deliberation. Both he and Wilson are like Yin and Yang. We see a different side of him when he meets Elena, played by Mariana Treviño. It’s great to see their journey of emotional growth after initially quarrelling due to their individual struggles and isolated natures, they find common ground and connection through shared experiences, suggesting a potential for a deeper relationship or friendship. Overall, Mitts is a multifaceted character who provides humor and emotional depth.
I also appreciate Judy Greer’s performance as the concerned former wife of Pryce. She as a standout in George Clooney’s 2011 hit film “The Descendants” as her husband in the film had an affair with the woman who was married to Clooney in the film. In Stick she’s spot-on for Pryce’s exploits and an excellent listener.
In the end, “Stick” conveys both adoration and frustration for the sport of golf. I had no idea what a head-game it is, as so many variables are involved when one is actually competing in a major tournament. Owen Wilson carries the series from start to finish, with me learning more about golf while laughing at Wilson’s antics.
In a recent Golf Digest 75 article, he was interviewed for an article titled ‘Hollywood Star Owen Wilson’s Method Acting Got Him Hooked on the Game.’
It starts, “To prepare for the role, Wilson got serious about golf. He began taking lessons in May 2023 at Urban Golf Performance in Los Angeles from Brenton Chan and O’Neill Cowan before seeking help from other teachers as well, including Makena Golf & Beach Club’s Zachary Fahmie. Wilson also pushed past that intimidation he felt as a kid and started playing a lot, mostly to get a better grasp of the game’s vernacular. “Most of the time you just use your imagination, but not this,” the Oscar and Golden Globe nominee says of preparing for the role. “I really wanted to prepare because I was nervous. You’re not really going to see my swing. You’re going to see the kid, so it’s really about feeling comfortable on a golf course and also getting to know the dialogue.”
Sarah Knight Adamson© July 6, 2025