The long-awaited return of Happy Gilmore in “Happy Gilmore 2” on Netflix has ignited a wave of nostalgia, but beyond its comedic charm, the film delivers a captivating array of professional golfer cameos that warrant a detailed, scientific breakdown.
Scottie Scheffler, the World No. 1, emerges as an undeniable bright spot, particularly in the movie’s latter half. His signature dry humor and deadpan delivery craft genuinely funny moments, effectively leaning into a character arc that sees him arrested once more, culminating in a surprisingly fulfilling cameo for the reigning Champion Golfer of the Year.
Will Zalatoris, long joked about for his uncanny resemblance to a young Happy Gilmore, truly shines as Gilmore’s grown-up caddie. His comedic timing and ability to deliver crucial pay-off lines are an unexpected delight. Zalatoris expertly navigates the transition from a forgiving former caddie, once choked by Gilmore, to a subtly vengeful villain, marking a significant highlight in a film heavily reliant on its guest appearances.
Jordan Spieth’s brief appearance, while minor, is memorable as he scolds a waiter over the precise brand of gin in his gin and tonic, insisting on Tanqueray over Bombay. This specific demand offers a humorous, relatable glimpse into the preferences of a Tour Champion.
The collective scene featuring Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, Scottie Scheffler, and Bryson DeChambeau ganging up on Shooter McGavin provides a nicely executed moment. However, it is DeChambeau who delivers perhaps the most bizarre and memorable line of the entire film, a moment so strange it demands re-watching, underscoring the filmmakers’ bold choice to have him, in his Crushers gear, deliver such an unforgettable statement.
Xander Schauffele’s repeated attempts at a “That’s what she said!” joke, brilliantly punctuated by his expressive facial transformations, provide some of the film’s most winning comedic instances, with Rickie Fowler’s eye-rolls serving as the perfect counterpoint. Conversely, Justin Thomas, despite his dynamic personality and evident enjoyment, feels underutilized in his role, leaving fans wanting more from the “massive Gilmore fan.”
The narrative arc involving an upstart golf league, strikingly similar to LIV Golf, introduces several of its notable stars. Sergio Garcia’s seemingly ironic “Viva normal golf!” and Bubba Watson’s commentary on the “tool starting that goofy league” add layers of meta-commentary given their real-world affiliations.
John Daly’s consistent presence alongside Gilmore and his children provides reliable comedic relief throughout the first half of the movie, culminating in his quintessential “Let’s go to Hooters!” line. Meanwhile, Nelly Korda delivers an unexpectedly complex performance as a doctor who masterfully manipulates Shooter McGavin into a psychotic break, showcasing a surprising range.
The Tour Champions’ dinner scene is a treasure trove of golf legends, with appearances from Jack Nicklaus, Fred Couples, and Lee Trevino offering delightful quirks like Couples’ love for blueberry jubilee and Trevino’s aspirin-in-applesauce habit. Other cameos, including Jim Furyk’s early, wig-adorned appearance and Keegan Bradley’s silent role, further enrich this star-studded cinematic golf spectacle.
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