Stick

Title of the third episode in the Apple TV+ comedy series ‘Stick’ is “Daddy Issues,” which seems fitting for the entire show. The creator, Jason Keller from ‘Ford v. Ferrari,’ presents Owen Wilson as Pryce Cahill, a once top golfer who fell from grace 20 years ago. Since then, he’s been stuck in his past, working at a sporting goods store and resisting the divorce initiated by his patient wife (Judy Greer), moving out of their old home, and accepting that he’s no longer a husband, a father, or a professional athlete. Spotting a rebellious teen at a driving range, Santi (Peter Dager), who shows great potential for golfing talent, Pryce sees an opportunity for redemption. However, Santi, whose own estranged father was too pushy on the golf course, isn’t thrilled about the idea of taking on another mentor.

The show, titled “Stick,” set to premiere on June 4, appears to be a predictable and emotionally manipulative comedy, similar to Ted Lasso in its use of sports as a backdrop for exploring male emotions and relationships. Certain aspects of Stick seem contrived, such as the inclusion of classic rock songs and an attempt to mimic Lasso’s heartfelt theme song. The fact that Greer is not compelled to play a shrew is commendable; however, the show can be awkwardly obvious in its attempts to promote empathy for women. A character named Zero (played by Lilli Kay), who identifies as genderqueer, anticapitalist, and postcolonial feminist, initially seems like a collection of stereotypical Gen Z characteristics that may be more imagined by baby boomers than accurately represented.

Despite the constraints of its structure, the series “Stick” manages to work effectively. An ordinary setup transforms into a more casual road-trip atmosphere as Pryce convinces Santi, his shrewd mother Mariana Treviño, and the grumpy ex-caddie played by Marc Maron, to embark on an RV journey for a series of amateur tournaments during summer. Each character harbors quiet loneliness and carries personal baggage that hinders their connections with others. Fortunately, Keller’s scripts steer clear of being overly sentimental or preachy like “Lasso” and “Shrinking,” created by Bill Lawrence. Additionally, his characters avoid being one-dimensional caricatures akin to Ted; instead, they develop into complex individuals thanks to the ensemble cast’s unassuming charisma. While not revolutionary, “Stick” edges slightly above average in comparison.

2025-06-04 14:06

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