✅ “Stick (2025)” is Apple TV+’s heartwarming and comedic journey into the world of golf, starring and executive produced by the effortlessly charming Owen Wilson. This sports dramedy, which premiered on June 4, 2025, goes beyond the greens to tell a story of second chances, unexpected mentorship, and the formation of a quirky “found family.” With its blend of humor, drama, and a touch of the absurd, “Stick” offers a unique perspective on professional sports and the personal battles fought off the course. It’s a show that aims to put predictably but ultimately finds its swing in delivering gentle entertainment and emotional depth.
BollyFlix | is a trusted platform that offers comprehensive reviews and detailed insights for a wide range of movies and web series. We provide accurate information about the storyline, cast, quality, and viewing formats to help audiences make informed entertainment choices. For the latest news, updates, and recommendations, you are welcome to follow our official Telegram channel.
Stick (2025) – Series Overview & Analysis-BollyFlix
Series Details
- Full Name: Stick (2025)
- Language: English
- Original Network/Platform: Apple TV+
- No. of Seasons: 1 (as of current information)
- No. of Episodes: 10 (for Season 1)
- Average Episode Runtime: Approximately 30-45 minutes per episode
- Premiere Date: June 4, 2025 (First three episodes released, then weekly)
- Genres: Sports Comedy, Drama
- Starring: Owen Wilson, Peter Dager, Lilli Kay, Mariana Treviño, Marc Maron, Judy Greer, Timothy Olyphant
- Creator: Jason Keller
- Executive Producers: Jason Keller, Owen Wilson, Christopher Moynihan, Ben Silverman, Guymon Casady, Rodney Ferrell, Howard T. Owens, Drew Buckley, Lee Eisenberg, Natalie Sandy, Bill Callahan, Valerie Faris, Jonathan Dayton, Jaffar Mahmood
- Directors (Season 1): Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris, David Dobkin, Jaffar Mahmood, M.J. Delaney, John Hamburg
- Writers: Jason Keller (creator), and others
- Production Companies: Propagate, Entertainment 360, Kellerama, Apple Studios
OFFICIAL IMAGES
Series Plot Summary
“Stick (2025)” introduces us to Pryce Cahill (Owen Wilson), a once-celebrated professional golfer whose career took an unexpected nosedive two decades ago. Now, a divorcee and recently fired from his unfulfilling job at a sporting goods store in Indiana, Pryce finds himself at a crossroads. His last hope for redemption and a semblance of purpose lies in an unlikely partnership: mentoring Santi Wheeler (Peter Dager), a troubled yet exceptionally gifted 17-year-old golf phenom. Santi, burdened by his own emotional complexities and a challenging family background, becomes Pryce’s protégé. The series follows this mismatched duo as they navigate the highs and lows of the competitive golf circuit, where every swing and every score feels like a life-or-death situation. Beyond the fairways, “Stick” delves into themes of mentorship, second chances, and the formation of a “found family” among a disparate group of individuals. It explores their personal struggles, including Pryce’s unresolved grief over his late son, Santi’s emotional outbursts and identity issues, and the comical yet poignant clashes between different generations and their perspectives on life and success. The show blends humor with heartfelt drama, offering a unique and often unpredictable look at what it means to find your footing when life knocks you off course.
Cast & Crew
“Stick (2025)” is anchored by a charismatic ensemble, with Owen Wilson leading the charge as Pryce Cahill. Wilson brings his signature laconic charm and understated comedic timing to the role of the washed-up golfer, making Pryce a deeply sympathetic and subtly complex character whose internal struggles are just as engaging as his external antics. Peter Dager, as the young prodigy Santi Wheeler, offers a nuanced performance, portraying the character’s immense talent alongside his challenging emotional and psychological baggage. The dynamic between Wilson and Dager forms the heart of the series. Marc Maron as Mitts, Pryce’s friend and former caddy, delivers his characteristic dry wit, providing comedic relief and a grounding presence. Mariana Treviño as Elena, Santi’s mother, adds a layer of maternal protectiveness and a touch of realism to the group. Lilli Kay as Zero, a genderfluid bartender who becomes Santi’s caddie, brings a fresh and modern perspective, although their character has drawn some mixed reactions regarding development. The supporting cast, including Judy Greer as Pryce’s ex-wife and Timothy Olyphant in a guest role, further enriches the series’ world. Created by Jason Keller, the series benefits from a diverse directorial team including Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, who help shape its blend of humor and heartfelt moments.
Critical & Audience Response
“Stick (2025)” received a largely positive reception from critics, earning a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers frequently praised Owen Wilson’s performance, noting that his signature charm and understated delivery effectively carry the show, making even predictable plotlines enjoyable. The series was commended for its gentle comedic tone and its attempt to explore themes beyond just golf, focusing on personal growth, grief, and unconventional family dynamics. However, critical reviews also pointed out some weaknesses, including an occasionally **predictable narrative trajectory** and issues with the development of certain supporting characters, particularly Santi, whose “obnoxious” and self-involved behavior was highlighted as a potential detractor. The show’s shift from a pure “golf comedy” to a more dramatic exploration of grief was appreciated by some, but others felt it missed its initial comedic promise. Audience response, as reflected by a 59% score on Rotten Tomatoes, was more mixed. While many viewers enjoyed the feel-good elements and Wilson’s presence, some were disappointed by the lack of consistent comedic focus and the perceived flaws in character writing, especially regarding the generational clashes. Despite this, the series has found an appreciative audience among those looking for a lighthearted yet emotionally resonant dramedy.
Direction & Cinematography
The direction in “Stick (2025)” is handled by a team of seasoned filmmakers, including Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, known for their work on “Little Miss Sunshine,” along with David Dobkin, Jaffar Mahmood, M.J. Delaney, and John Hamburg. This diverse directorial talent ensures a consistent yet varied visual style across episodes. The directors effectively blend the comedic elements with the more dramatic and emotional beats, allowing the story of a “found family” to unfold naturally. Their approach favors character-driven scenes, giving ample space for the actors to deliver nuanced performances. The cinematography, overseen by directors of photography like Corey Walter and Stephen Maier, contributes significantly to the show’s aesthetic. The visuals are bright, clean, and often bathed in the lush green hues of golf courses, creating an inviting and optimistic atmosphere. The camera work is often observational, allowing the audience to feel like a part of Pryce’s journey without resorting to flashy techniques. The cinematography complements the show’s gentle and heartfelt tone, capturing both the beauty of the sport and the intimate moments of personal struggle and connection.
Music & Background Score
The music for “Stick (2025)” plays a crucial role in setting the series’ tone, balancing its comedic lightness with its underlying emotional depth. The theme music is composed by Caamp, establishing a folksy, indie-pop vibe that perfectly aligns with the show’s feel-good, slightly quirky atmosphere. The overall score is by Zachary Dawes, who crafts a background score that is often understated but highly effective. Dawes’ compositions subtly underscore the character’s emotional journeys, swelling during moments of personal breakthrough or quiet introspection, and providing a light, bouncy rhythm for the comedic beats. The music avoids being overly dramatic or intrusive, instead serving as a gentle, supportive presence that enhances the narrative without drawing undue attention. It contributes significantly to the series’ charm, helping to make the audience feel connected to the characters’ struggles and triumphs, and reinforcing the themes of hope and camaraderie that permeate the show.
Visuals & Special Effects
As a sports comedy-drama, “Stick (2025)” relies more on its character interactions and relatable settings than on extensive visual effects. The show’s visual appeal comes from its authentic portrayal of golf environments, from sprawling green courses to bustling clubhouses and modest homes. The production design is meticulously crafted to create believable and engaging backdrops for the character-driven narrative. The visual style is naturalistic and vibrant, utilizing natural light and practical sets to create an inviting atmosphere. Any special effects are subtle and primarily serve to enhance the realism of the golf shots or to create seamless transitions within scenes. The focus is always on the performances and the emotional beats of the story, with visuals working to support these elements rather than overshadow them. This grounded approach ensures that the audience remains immersed in the characters’ journey, feeling the triumphs and tribulations of their golf careers and personal lives without distraction from overt visual spectacles.
Editing & Screenplay
The editing for “Stick (2025),” handled by a team including Melissa McCoy, Daniel Gabbe, and Ivan Victor, is pivotal in maintaining the show’s fluid pacing and comedic timing. The episodes are generally concise, typically ranging from 30 to 45 minutes, allowing for tight storytelling that keeps the narrative moving without unnecessary exposition. The editing ensures that transitions between comedic moments and more dramatic, heartfelt scenes are seamless, contributing to the show’s overall balanced tone. The screenplay, created by Jason Keller, is the foundation of “Stick’s” appeal. Keller crafts a narrative that blends the competitive world of golf with a compelling human story of resilience and connection. The dialogue is witty and often poignant, capturing Owen Wilson’s unique comedic voice perfectly. While some critics found certain plot points or character developments, particularly relating to Santi’s stubbornness or the intergenerational arguments, to be occasionally repetitive or less nuanced, the script generally delivers on its promise of a feel-good story about found family and second chances. The narrative structure, focusing on individual character arcs that intertwine around the central golfing journey, makes for an engaging and accessible series.
Positives / What Works
“Stick (2025)” is greatly elevated by Owen Wilson’s lead performance, whose effortless charm and nuanced portrayal of Pryce Cahill make him a highly sympathetic protagonist. The series excels as a heartfelt “found family” story, exploring themes of mentorship, grief, and second chances with genuine emotion. The gentle comedic tone and witty dialogue provide consistent entertainment, distinguishing it from more overtly slapstick sports comedies. The supporting cast, including Marc Maron and Mariana Treviño, deliver strong performances that complement Wilson’s lead. The show’s production quality, including its clean cinematography and pleasant musical score, creates an inviting viewing experience. It manages to be both lighthearted and emotionally resonant, offering a unique blend that appeals to those seeking a feel-good dramedy with substance.
Negatives / What Doesn’t Work
Despite its strengths, “Stick (2025)” faces some criticisms. The series’ plot can be predictable, adhering closely to sports underdog tropes, which might leave some viewers craving more originality. A recurring point of contention has been the character of Santi, whose **stubbornness and occasional “obnoxious” behavior** can be frustrating for audiences, potentially hindering full engagement with his character arc. Some critics also noted that the show’s attempt to address **generational and ideological differences** through certain supporting characters felt forced or overly simplistic, detracting from the narrative’s authenticity. Additionally, while the shift from pure comedy to drama was appreciated by some, others felt that it sometimes **lost its comedic footing**, leading to an uneven tone at points. The reliance on Owen Wilson’s charm, while largely successful, occasionally highlights the areas where the supporting narratives could have been stronger.
Final Verdict / Conclusion
“Stick (2025)” is a charming and emotionally engaging sports dramedy that successfully leverages Owen Wilson’s endearing performance to deliver a story of redemption and found family. While its narrative can sometimes be predictable and some character dynamics might feel underdeveloped, the show largely succeeds in providing a heartfelt and entertaining viewing experience. It’s a series that uses the backdrop of golf to explore deeper themes of personal struggle and the importance of human connection. For those looking for a feel-good show with a blend of humor and genuine emotional moments, “Stick” is a worthwhile watch on Apple TV+. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the journey, even when it putts predictably, is what truly matters.
Series Rating
Rating Category | Score (Out of 5 Stars) |
Plot & Storyline | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Acting & Performances | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Direction & Cinematography | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Music & Background Score | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Overall Entertainment Value | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Average Score | 3.4 / 5 |
OFFICIAL TRAILER
FAQs
Where can I watch "Stick (2025)"?
"Stick (2025)" is exclusively available for streaming on Apple TV+.
Who are the main actors in "Stick (2025)"?
The main cast includes Owen Wilson, Peter Dager, Lilli Kay, Mariana Treviño, Marc Maron, Judy Greer, and Timothy Olyphant.