Sports are the things that bring families, strangers and like minded people together for the common goal of rooting for players, teams and countries.
The term fan comes from the word fanatic, which often describes people who do have the desire and will to cheer for their sports teams or players and get all the emotional highs and lows of the games or matches. In America, The NFL, NBA and MLB rule the airwaves and get most of the coverage on sports radio TV and websites. However, a niche sports still graces us every now and then when big events or players often comes to the spotlight and that is the classic sport of golf.
Golf has been around for centuries dating back to its origins in Scotland and to this day is still played by many and viewed on TV by millions during PGA tours. Most people don’t think of golf as much of a team sport because the golfer is doing all the work and the caddie is usually there to just hand him the clubs and not break the concentration of the pro. Well, those were my initial instincts and beliefs as well until I watched the documentary Loopers: The Caddie’s Long Walk.
With narration by the lovable and the most famous groundskeeper of all time Bill Murray, this film gives us a nice history lesson about caddies and the transformation from local plebs and lower class bums to being the best friend, family member and confidant to the golfer because of the way golf has transformed in becoming a multi-million dollar business. It is quite fascinating, but is this documentary worth the watch and viewing? Well, we’re going to discuss the narrative of the story, the information being told, and the entertainment value. Is this film a hole in one or does it shank just to the right in the sand pit. Let’s review Loopers: The Caddie’s Long Walk.
The narrative of the story is about the caddie. The caddie originally was nothing more than low class who often were drunks, womanizers, unkept and a unruly bunch. They were porters and the lower class. They would be happy with some money and would usually stick with their own class because it made them feel comfortable that way. Bill goes into the story when golf came to the Americas and how caddies had to adapt and change with a code of conduct and a way to carry yourself. This came when the business side of golf started becoming more famous through television and news reels. From that point, we go into a lot of history starting with Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus at Augusta to Pebble Beach and other famous.
It also gives us the knowledge how Augusta was one of the first, if not the first, links golf course in America and how you can only play through Augusta with only the local caddies and not your own. In time, we see a lot of generational changes, class changes and breakthroughs with gender. Caddies are no longer seen as pariahs and low class blokes but rather someone who the golfer needs to have a relationship and be there for moral support because no golfer will ever win any pro event with all they want is for their caddie to show up, carry their clubs and keep their mouths shut. Its a nice love letter to the caddie since they usually don’t get much of the recognition but are the ones that will guide the golfer with their history, determination and their approach to their victory whether or not the golfer listens to them or not.
The information in this movie is vast and many. We get a history lesson about the first recordings of golf taking place in Scotland, to Mary Queen of Scots, to the first couple of golf courses in America to the modern days of Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth. The stories are told through the history as well through the perspectives of the caddies that helped the golfers become household names and champions. While you get information through historians and aficionados, its the stories some of the caddies share that make you smile, laugh and nod your heads in approval. While the average viewer might think there is a lot of transitions from the different golf courses and lot of different caddies, it eventually calms down with the moving from course to course and often focuses on a couple of courses in Scotland, Augusta and Pebble Beach. The knowledge is good and the knowledge is power.
This movie is a documentary. The entertainment comes from whether you’re a fan of the sport. There were some almost Monty Python style animation thrown in the beginning of the movie but it died off through telling interesting stories from the caddies point of view. Now, I’m not a golf fan but I do like sports. This movie was fascinating and I did find myself enjoy learning more about what a caddies job is supposed to entail and root for some of the people becoming successful with their dedication and loyalty to just wanting the golfer to succeed. The over 80 minute movie did take a bit to get started but it did somehow win me over through some stories, beautiful visual scenery of the golf courses and Bill Murray giving a little bit of narration to help tide us over through a generational shift or scene change.
If you like golf, this movie is for you. If you like sports but not sure about golf, I think it would be worth a shot viewing it because even though golf is the main subject, its the people that make it interesting and the stories and their lives are what makes it worth the watch. The sport itself is not what I would watch on a Saturday afternoon but get me some of those caddies on camera talking and hearing some of what they have to say, I wouldn’t mind dedicating less than a hour and a half of my time to hear some guys chatting about.
I give this movie three non-mentioned gophers out of four.
As a devoted fan of South Indian action cinema and an entertainment journalist, I’ve come to admire the sheer charisma, talent, and screen presence of a few iconic actors who have redefined the genre. Here’s a list of my top five favorite Indian action heroes, along with a couple of must-watch movies from each of them that showcase their incredible prowess on screen.
- NTR Jr.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., known as NTR Jr., is an electrifying performer who blends action and emotion effortlessly. His dialogue delivery, intensity, and dance moves make him a powerhouse in South Indian cinema.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): Directed by S.S. Rajamouli, this epic action-drama showcases NTR Jr. as Komaram Bheem, a fierce and compassionate warrior.
Temper (2015): NTR Jr. delivers a riveting performance as a corrupt cop who embarks on a journey of redemption.
- Allu Arjun
The “Stylish Star” of Tollywood, Allu Arjun, is celebrated for his fluid dance moves, charismatic screen presence, and action-packed roles. His ability to transform into diverse characters has won him a massive fanbase.
Must-Watch Movies:
Pushpa: The Rise (2021): As Pushpa Raj, a smuggler with unyielding determination, Allu Arjun delivers a gritty and unforgettable performance.
Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020): While not strictly an action film, it features intense fight scenes and showcases Allu Arjun’s versatility.
- Prabhas
Known for his larger-than-life roles, Prabhas has become a global sensation. His dedication to his craft and ability to headline mega-budget films set him apart.
Must-Watch Movies:
Baahubali: The Beginning (2015) & Baahubali: The Conclusion (2017): These iconic films, directed by S.S. Rajamouli, transformed Prabhas into a household name.
Saaho (2019): A high-octane action-thriller where Prabhas portrays an enigmatic cop.
- Yash
Yash’s meteoric rise to stardom is nothing short of inspirational. His raw energy, intense action sequences, and ability to connect with audiences have solidified his status as a South Indian action hero.
Must-Watch Movies:
KGF: Chapter 1 (2018) & KGF: Chapter 2 (2022): Yash as Rocky Bhai is a cinematic phenomenon, blending larger-than-life action with a gripping storyline.
Masterpiece (2015): A lesser-known gem that highlights Yash’s charisma and action chops.
- Ram Charan
Ram Charan, a dynamic performer, has mastered the art of blending action, drama, and dance in his roles. His nuanced performances and incredible screen presence make him a fan favorite.
Must-Watch Movies:
RRR (2022): His portrayal of Alluri Sitarama Raju, alongside NTR Jr., is a masterclass in action and emotion.
Magadheera (2009): A timeless classic that combines action, romance, and fantasy in a spellbinding narrative.
Why These Actors Shine
What makes these stars stand out in the realm of South Indian action movies is their ability to push boundaries, take on challenging roles, and deliver performances that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s NTR Jr.’s emotional depth, Allu Arjun’s stylish personas, Prabhas’s epic presence, Yash’s raw intensity, or Ram Charan’s versatility, these actors have set benchmarks in the industry.
So, if you’re an action movie enthusiast like me, dive into their filmographies—you won’t be disappointed!
When RRR stormed onto the global stage, it didn’t just captivate audiences—it redefined Indian cinema’s reach. Among the legion of admirers is none other than James Gunn, the mastermind behind Guardians of the Galaxy and the architect of DC Studios’ cinematic future. Gunn’s vocal admiration for the film, particularly its star NTR Jr., has sparked excitement in Hollywood and beyond. It’s a testament to NTR Jr.’s exceptional talent and a long-overdue recognition of his abilities as an actor of extraordinary caliber.
In interviews and social media posts, Gunn has repeatedly praised RRR for its storytelling, high-octane action, and emotionally charged performances. However, what truly stood out for the acclaimed filmmaker was NTR Jr.’s portrayal of Komaram Bheem. Gunn lauded NTR Jr.’s magnetic screen presence, noting how his nuanced performance struck the perfect balance between raw intensity and heartfelt vulnerability. For Gunn, this wasn’t just an appreciation of a great film—it was a call to collaborate with an actor who embodies the charisma and skill needed for global stardom.
As Gunn reshapes the DC Universe, the prospect of bringing NTR Jr. into the fold feels like a natural progression. With his eye for blending humor, heart, and heroism, Gunn’s creative vision would pair seamlessly with NTR Jr.’s dynamic acting range.
Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao Jr., affectionately known as Tarak, is no stranger to acclaim. Hailing from the illustrious Nandamuri family, his rise to stardom was marked by a series of standout performances in Telugu cinema. With each role, NTR Jr. has proven his versatility, effortlessly transitioning from emotionally driven characters in films like Yamadonga to action-packed blockbusters such as Temper and Janatha Garage. His role in RRR, however, elevated his craft to an international platform.
In RRR, NTR Jr. brought Komaram Bheem to life with an intensity that left audiences in awe. From the iconic jungle tiger scene to the emotionally wrenching friendship dynamic with Ram Charan’s Raju, he carried the weight of the film on his broad shoulders with effortless grace. His ability to portray strength, resilience, and vulnerability in equal measure cements him as one of Indian cinema’s greatest.
For years, Indian actors have slowly been making their mark on Hollywood, but NTR Jr. is poised to take it a step further. His universal appeal, combined with his dedication to his craft, makes him a natural choice for a crossover into global cinema. James Gunn’s interest in collaborating with him is not just a compliment—it’s a recognition of the talent that has long deserved a spotlight.
In a time when audiences are demanding more diverse stories and authentic representation, NTR Jr.’s inclusion in a major Hollywood franchise would be a game-changer. Whether as a DC superhero, a cosmic adventurer, or a complex antihero, Tarak has the range to bring any character to life.
Gunn’s admiration for RRR and NTR Jr. signifies more than just a potential collaboration. It’s a validation of Indian cinema’s ability to produce world-class talent and stories that resonate across cultures. As filmmakers like Gunn shine a light on stars like NTR Jr., the gap between Bollywood, Tollywood, and Hollywood continues to narrow, creating a truly global entertainment industry.
For NTR Jr., this could be the beginning of a journey that takes him from an Indian megastar to an international icon. As fans of cinema, we can only hope that James Gunn’s vision materializes, giving us the opportunity to see Tarak in a role that matches his immense potential. After all, it’s about time the world recognizes what Indian audiences have known for years—NTR Jr. is a force to be reckoned with.
Review By: Raja V. Deva
Genre: Political Action Thriller
Runtime: Approximately 165 minutes
Director: S. Shankar
Writer: Story by Karthik Subbaraj; Screenplay by S. Shankar, Vivek, and Venkatesan
Cast: Ram Charan, Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Srikanth, Sunil, Jayaram, Samuthirakani
Music Composer: Thaman S
“Game Changer” marks S. Shankar’s foray into Telugu cinema with a political action thriller designed to be grand in scale and ambition. The film features Ram Charan in dual roles: Appanna, a shrewd political leader, and his son, Ram Nandan, an upright IAS officer determined to clean up a corrupt system. However, despite the actor’s valiant efforts, the story doesn’t fully work with Ram Charan in the lead.
Originally conceptualized for another actor, the film’s narrative feels like it was tailored for someone with real-life political aspirations. While Ram Charan brings his star power and intensity to the roles, the weighty political undertones and the narrative’s structure don’t align well with his on-screen persona. His dual performance showcases his range, but the emotional depth and conviction required to anchor such a politically charged film seem misaligned with his strengths.
The supporting cast provides decent performances, with Kiara Advani and Anjali making their presence felt, though their characters lack depth. S. J. Suryah stands out as a formidable antagonist, adding gravitas to the film. Thaman S’s background score enhances the mood, though the songs occasionally disrupt the flow of the narrative.
Visually, the film boasts stunning production values and large-scale set pieces, typical of Shankar’s style. However, even the grandeur and intricate action sequences can’t mask the disjointed storytelling. The screenplay struggles to balance its political commentary with its action-oriented approach, leaving neither element fully realized.
Ultimately, “Game Changer” feels like a project that missed its mark. The story might resonate with audiences interested in political drama or those with a penchant for larger-than-life narratives, but it doesn’t do justice to Ram Charan’s abilities or his established image.
Rating: 6/10
For fans of Ram Charan or political thrillers, it might be worth a watch, but “Game Changer” feels like an opportunity lost to deliver a truly compelling cinematic experience.
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James Gunn’s Love for RRR: The Rise of NTR Jr. as a Global Phenomenon
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