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Best Adam Sandler Movies of All Time Ranked

(L to R) Patrick Wilson as Ben Alcock and Adam Sandler as Ron Sukenick in ‘Jay Kelly’. Cr. Netflix © 2025.

Adam Sandler one of the most beloved entertainers around!

He also holds the record for the highest box office total of any comedic actor in cinematic history at a staggering $3.3B worldwide, thanks to popular films like ‘Billy Madison‘, ‘The Waterboy‘, ‘The Wedding Singer‘, ‘Big Daddy‘, ‘Grown Ups‘, and of course, ‘Happy Gilmore‘.

His latest movie, ‘Jay Kelly‘, which also stars George Clooney, debuted on Netflix December 5th.
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In honor of the new film, Moviefone is counting down the 20 best Adam Sandler movies of all time.

Let’s begin!

Related Article: Adam Sandler and Laura Dern Talk ‘Jay Kelly’ Starring George Clooney

20. ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)

The cast of 2005’s ‘The Longest Yard.’ Photo: Paramount Pictures.

Disgraced pro football quarterback Paul Crewe (Sandler) lands in a Texas federal penitentiary, where manipulative Warden Hazen (James Cromwell) recruits him to advise the institution’s football team of prison guards. Crewe suggests a tune-up game which lands him quarterbacking a crew of inmates in a game against the guards. Aided by incarcerated ex-NFL coach and player Nate Scarborough (Burt Reynolds), Crewe and his team must overcome not only the bloodthirstiness of the opposition, but also the corrupt warden trying to fix the game against them.
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19. ‘Just Go with It‘ (2011)

While romancing Palmer (Brooklyn Decker), a much younger schoolteacher, plastic surgeon Danny Maccabee (Sandler) enlists his loyal assistant Katherine (Jennifer Aniston) to pretend to be his soon to be ex-wife, in order to cover up a careless lie. When more lies backfire, Katherine’s kids become involved, and everyone heads off for a weekend in Hawaii that will change all their lives.
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18. ‘50 First Dates‘ (2004)

Henry (Sandler) is a player skilled at seducing women. But when this veterinarian meets Lucy (Drew Barrymore), a girl with a quirky problem when it comes to total recall, he realizes it’s possible to fall in love all over again…and again, and again. That’s because the delightful Lucy has no short-term memory, so Henry must woo her day after day until he finally sweeps her off her feet.
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17. ‘Grown Ups‘ (2010)

After their high school basketball coach passes away, five (Sandler, Chris Rock, David Spade, Rob Schneider and Kevin James) good friends and former teammates reunite for a Fourth of July holiday weekend.
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16. ‘You Don’t Mess with the Zohan‘ (2008)

An Israeli counterterrorism soldier with a secretly fabulous ambition to become a Manhattan hairstylist. Zohan’s (Sandler) desire runs so deep that he’ll do anything — including faking his own death and going head-to-head with an Arab cab driver — to make his dreams come true.
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15. ‘Murder Mystery 2‘ (2023)

(L to R) Jennifer Aniston as Audrey Spitz and Adam Sandler as Nick Spitz in ‘Murder Mystery 2.’ Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2022.

Four years after solving their first murder mystery, Nick (Jennifer Aniston) and Audrey Spitz (Sandler) are now full-time detectives struggling to get their private eye agency off the ground when they’re invited to celebrate the wedding of their friend the Maharaja (Adeel Akhtar) on his private island. But trouble follows the Spitzes again when the groom is kidnapped for ransom soon after the festivities begin — making each glamorous guest, family member, and the bride herself a suspect. ‘Murder Mystery 2’ sends Nick and Audrey Spitz on a high-stakes case that finally gives them everything they’ve ever dreamed of: a shot at their detective agency finally becoming successful…and their long-awaited trip to Paris.
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14. ‘Mr. Deeds‘ (2002)

When Longfellow Deeds (Sandler), a small-town pizzeria owner and poet, inherits $40 billion from his deceased uncle, he quickly begins rolling in a different kind of dough. Moving to the big city, Deeds finds himself besieged by opportunists all gunning for their piece of the pie. Babe (Winona Ryder), a television tabloid reporter, poses as an innocent small-town girl to do an exposé on Deeds.
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13. ‘The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)‘ (2017)

An estranged family gathers together in New York for an event celebrating the artistic work of their father (Dustin Hoffman).
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12. ‘Anger Management‘ (2003)

After a small misunderstanding aboard an airplane escalates out of control, timid businessman Dave Buznik (Sandler) is ordered by the court to undergo anger management therapy at the hands of specialist Dr. Buddy Rydell (Jack Nicholson). But when Buddy steps up his aggressive treatment by moving in, Dave goes from mild to wild as the unorthodox treatment wreaks havoc with his life.
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11. ‘Murder Mystery‘ (2019)

On a long-awaited trip to Europe, a New York City cop (Sandler) and his hairdresser wife (Jennifer Aniston) scramble to solve a baffling murder aboard a billionaire’s yacht.
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10. ‘Happy Gilmore 2‘ (2025)

Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

Revisit Happy Gilmore’s (Sandler) golf career after his win in the Tour Championship.
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9. ‘Big Daddy‘ (1999)

A lazy law school grad (Sandler) adopts a kid to impress his girlfriend (Joey Lauren Adams), but everything doesn’t go as planned and he becomes the unlikely foster father.
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8. ‘Punch-Drunk Love‘ (2002)

A socially awkward and volatile small business owner (Sandler) meets the love of his life after being threatened by a gang of scammers.
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7. ‘Hustle‘ (2022)

After discovering a once-in-a-lifetime player with a rocky past abroad, a down on his luck basketball scout (Sandler) takes it upon himself to bring the phenom (Juancho Herrnangomez) to the States without his team’s approval. Against the odds, they have one final shot to prove they have what it takes to make it in the NBA.
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6. ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)

Bobby Boucher (Sandler) is a water boy for a struggling college football team. The coach discovers Boucher’s hidden rage makes him a tackling machine whose bone-crushing power might vault his team into the playoffs.
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5. ‘Jay Kelly‘ (2025)

(L to R) George Clooney as Jay Kelly and Adam Sandler as Ron Sukenick in ‘Jay Kelly’. Cr. Peter Mountain/Netflix © 2025.

Famous movie actor Jay Kelly (George Clooney) embarks on a journey of self-discovery, confronting both his past and present, accompanied by his devoted manager, Ron (Sandler).
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4. ‘Billy Madison‘ (1995)

Billy Madison (Sandler) is the 27 year-old son of Bryan Madison (Darren McGavin), a very rich man who has made his living in the hotel industry. Billy stands to inherit his father’s empire, but only if he can make it through all 12 grades, 2 weeks per grade, to prove that he has what it takes to run the family business.
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3. ‘The Wedding Singer‘ (1998)

Robbie (Sandler), a local rock star turned wedding singer, is dumped on the day of his wedding. Meanwhile, waitress Julia (Drew Barrymore) finally sets a wedding date with her fiancée Glenn. When Julia and Robbie meet and hit it off, they find that things are more complicated than anybody thought.
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2. ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)

A charismatic New York City jeweler (Sandler) always on the lookout for the next big score makes a series of high-stakes bets that could lead to the windfall of a lifetime. Howard must perform a precarious high-wire act, balancing business, family, and encroaching adversaries on all sides in his relentless pursuit of the ultimate win.
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1. ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Failed hockey player-turned-golf whiz Happy Gilmore (Sandler) — whose unconventional approach and antics on the green courts the ire of rival Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald) — is determined to win a PGA tournament so he can save his granny’s house with the prize money. Meanwhile, an attractive tour publicist tries to soften Happy’s image.
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February 7, 2026
Movie Review: ‘Happy Gilmore 2’
Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

‘Happy Gilmore 2’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

The long-awaited sequel to 1996’s ‘Happy Gilmore’ entitled ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ which once again stars Adam Sandler as the pro hockey player turned PGA tour golfer, premieres July 25th on Netflix.

The movie also welcomes back original cast members Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, and Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, as well as new recruits Benny Safdie (‘Oppenheimer’), Bad Bunny (‘Bullet Train’), Margaret Qualley (‘The Substance’), and Haley Joel Osment (‘The Sixth Sense’) and was directed by Kyle Newacheck (‘Murder Mystery’).

Related Article: Director Kyle Newacheck Talks ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ Starring Adam Sandler

Initial Thoughts

Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

‘Happy Gilmore 2’, the long-awaited sequel to the classic 1996 Adam Sandler film is a funny and satisfying follow up for fans, although it does rely heavy on nostalgia for the original. Sandler successfully returns to one of his most iconic roles, and while the character has grown since the first film, he’s still as funny and unpredictable as ever.

Christopher McDonald also triumphantly returns as Happy’s rival, Shooter McGavin, and his onscreen chemistry with Sandler is one of the highlights of the movie. The story is strong and mostly works but takes a little time to get going and drags a bit in the third act, and when focusing too much on subplots that don’t affect the main story. But fans of the original or Sandler’s work in general will be very “Happy” with the new sequel for the most part.

Story and Direction

(L to R) Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore and Rory McIlroy as himself on the set of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2025.

The film begins by catching us up on Happy Gilmore’s (Adam Sandler) life since the original movie, and we learn that he went on to win the PGA tour, marry Virginia (Julie Bowen), have five children, and become a golf legend. But after Happy experiences a personal tragedy in his own life, he loses his grandmother’s house, turns to alcohol, quits golf forever, and must raise his children on his own.

Now, 30 years later, his four sons are all grown up (and have their father’s anger issues), and Happy is living with his teenage daughter Vienna (Sunny Sandler), who wants to go to an expensive dance school in Paris that he can’t afford. Gilmore is soon approached by a billionaire (Benny Safdie) who wants to start an extreme golfing league to rival the PGA and wants to recruit Happy. While Happy refuses, it does inspire him to return to professional golfing, but he soon finds that he is a bit rusty on the course.

Eventually, along with his new caddy Oscar (Bad Bunny), Happy joins a tournament between the PGA and the extreme golfing league, where the losing league will be disbanded forever. To make matters worse, while Happy is dealing with his own alcoholism and his new extreme golfing rival played by Haley Joel Osment, his old rival, Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald) returns from a long time away and wants his revenge. Now, Happy must fight his own demons, new rivals and old, and win the tournament to save golf and earn enough money to get his grandmother’s house back and send his daughter to dance school.

‘Happy Gilmore 2’ director Kyle Newacheck.

The script by Tim Herlihy and Sandler works exceedingly well, even though it relies heavily on nostalgia for the first movie. The script allows a lot of growth for the title character, while never losing the anger and intensity Happy had in the original. This is an older and slightly wiser version of the character, and it fits Sandler well. The rival extreme golf league plot was very clever, even if it loses its some of its steam towards the end, but the sub-plot featuring Ben Stiller didn’t work for me at all.

Kyle Newcheck who worked with Sandler on ‘Murder Mystery’ takes over director duties from Dennis Dugan, who still returns as Doug Thompson from the first movie. Newcheck does a very good job with the pacing, direction and style of the movie. While it does feel like a proper sequel, it also has a very modern vibe with great music that works well in 2025.

There are many great cameos and Easter eggs from the first movie, and they all work, even if Newcheck might go to the well one too many times. The director also gets very good performances out of non-actors like golfers John Daly and Rory McIlroy, Football player Travis Kelce, and sportscaster Stephen A. Smith, and even incorporates social media personalities like Alix Earle.

Cast and Performances

(L to R) Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin and Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

In recent years Adam Sandler has given some very good dramatic performances in films like ‘Uncut Gems’, ‘Hustle’, and ‘Spaceman’, but returns to comedic form in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. In fact, I would go as far to say that Sandler’s dramatic work has made his comedic skills even stronger. Sandler is terrific as the older, down on his luck Happy, and is very believable in both the comedic and dramatic moments of the film.

But it wouldn’t be a “Happy Gilmore’ movie without Shooter McGavin played by the great Christopher McDonald. This is easily the actor’s signature role, and he is a force of nature in this sequel. He has fantastic chemistry with Sandler and seeing them together is one of the strongest elements of the film. I won’t say too much about his storyline, but it is very believable to the character from the first film and very funny.

Julie Bowen also returns as Happy’s now wife Virginia, and without revealing spoilers, I’ll just say that it’s unfortunate that the way the storyline unfolds that it does not give the actress more to do. Ben Stiller also returns as Hal L. and has a bigger role than in the first film. But his character is not my favorite, and I found his story arc to be unnecessary.

Ben Stiller as Hal L. in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

Joining the cast is musician Bad Bunny, who gives a shockingly funny performance as Happy’s new caddy Oscar and has a very relaxed and fun chemistry with Sandler. Actress Sunny Sandler, Adam’s daughter, also joins the cast as Happy’s daughter, Vienna, and gives a sweet and emotional performance.

Finally, I was very impressed with the performances from non-actors like golfer John Daly, who plays a version of himself living in Happy’s garage. There are also a few unforgettable cameos, which we won’t spoil here.

Final Thoughts

Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

As far as legacy sequels go, especially with comedies, ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ is a very funny and compelling film. Adam Sandler brings energy, passion, emotion and a lot of humor to his character, and Christopher McDonald is fantastic as Shooter, and it’s a joy to see the two actors together again. While the movie does lean heavy on your nostalgia for the original, it still feels fresh and like a reunion with some old friends.
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What’s the plot of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?

Thirty years after winning his first Tour Championship, retired golfer Happy Gilmore returns to the sport to pay for his daughter Vienna’s ballet school.

Who is in the cast of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?
- Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore
- Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit
- Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin
- Bad Bunny as Oscar
- Ben Stiller as Hal L.
- Dennis Dugan as Doug Thompson
- Kevin Nealon as Gary Potter
- Sunny Sandler as Vienna Gilmore
- Kym Whitley as Bessie
(L to R) Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore and John Daly as Himself in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2025.

List of Adam Sandler Sports Movies:
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)
- ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)
- ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)
- ‘Hustle‘ (2022)
- ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ (2025)
Buy Adam Sandler Movies On Amazon
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July 25, 2025
‘Happy Gilmore 2’ Interview: Director Kyle Newacheck
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Premiering July 25th on Netflix is the long-awaited sequel to 1996’s ‘Happy Gilmore’ entitled ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ which once again stars Adam Sandler as the pro hockey player turned PGA tour golfer.

Directed by Kyle Newacheck (‘Murder Mystery’), the movie also welcomes back original cast members Julie Bowen, Ben Stiller, and Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin, as well as new recruits Benny Safdie (‘Oppenheimer’), Bad Bunny (‘Bullet Train’), Margaret Qualley (‘The Substance’), and Haley Joel Osment (‘The Sixth Sense’).

Related Article: Ben Stiller to Reprise the Role of Hal in Adam Sandler’s ‘Happy Gilmore’ Sequel

‘Happy Gilmore 2’ director Kyle Newacheck.

Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with director Kyle Newacheck about his work on ‘Happy Gilmore 2’, his love for the original, collaborating on set with Adam Sandler, directing non-actors, working with Christopher McDonald, callbacks to the first film, and Sandler’s onscreen chemistry with Bad Bunny.

You can read the full interview below or click on the video player above to watch the interview.

Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

Moviefone: To begin with, are you a fan of the original ‘Happy Gilmore’ and what was it like to come in and direct the sequel?

Kyle Newacheck: That was truly surreal. So much that I would in my lunch breaks call my brother and be like, “Bro, is this real? Is this real? Is this happening?” He was the one who was like, “You got this. Yes, it’s real and you’re doing it.” Grounding element. There’s also an element of like, “Wow, me? Okay, let’s do it,” and so trust. Trust the instincts, trust the love, trust the skills, and get to work. Roll them up and get to work.

MF: This is the second time you’ve worked with Adam Sandler. What is your relationship like collaborating on set and do you have a shorthand together?

KN: Yeah, I think so. I think we can tell when either of us are maybe not feeling like the scene is up to its potential, and so we will try and pitch to figure out what we can do. I mean, I think we understand each other on a level and partly because I grew up on his movies. I know what he might have in his bag of tricks that he’s looking for, and I also know what he might have in his bag of tricks that we can mess with. I’m a huge fan of his work, and thankfully Adam Sandler is a hard worker. He will put in the work. I think I’m the same way. I work incredibly hard. I really put my whole self into a project, and I think we both have a similar style, where we put our whole selves into a project in the hopes that it will feel effortless. That’s hard to do, but we both try and do that.

(L to R) Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore and John Daly as Himself in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2025.

MF: The film also features a lot of athletes and sportscasters playing themselves like John Daly and Stephen A. Smith. What is it like directing non-actors?

KN: I find it fun. I think it’s exhilarating. Most of the time they come to the table with just, they’re athletes, so they know what the moment is first. You know what I mean? They understand how to perform in the moment, and I connected those dots quickly where it was like, “Well, this guy, he knows what a moment is. He knows how to rise to the moment so basically just expecting that when we’re going to work. Then basically making the set as comfortable as possible for them so that they feel like they can own the moment I think is really the approach. Then helping them out on any little molecular issues that we might have as we get through it.

MF: Christopher McDonald returns in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ as Shooter McGavin. What was it like directing him in his signature role?

KN: I mean, I knew Adam before so I could do that, but Shooter I didn’t know. So, when Shooter showed up, it was like, we’re really doing this. This is really happening. Chris McDonald is just a wonder. He’s a great performer. He always gives you something different and just a genuine good guy. He loves the character of Shooter, loves it. It’s not like one of the characters that he did back in the day. This is his character. He loves it, so he’s great. He’s great. It was awesome.

(L to R) Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin and Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

MF: The sequel has many callbacks to the original film, which one was your favorite and were there any cameos you tried to fit in but couldn’t?

KN: Well, I know that there’s not one that I wanted to get in that I wasn’t able to. I think we’re well-covered on that. One of the last ones that we did put in that I think was incredible was the alligators, calling back the alligators. That was a last add. As we were driving around the golf course, we were like, “We should do this,” and I think it worked well. I think it’s one of the funniest scenes in the movie.

MF: Finally, can you talk about working with Bad Bunny and his hilarious onscreen chemistry with Adam?

KN: Yeah, Benito was incredible. I think the first time I framed up a shot on him and his first lines with Adam it was truly undeniable their chemistry and what he was bringing to the character. That character is there on the page, and it has some depth, but I think that Benito put the depth in that character. I feel like he really rounded it out. Yeah, they were just fused. They were working well together, and it was so fun every time. Their interactions outside of the scenes were always pleasant and all that. Sometimes you just get a good pair, and they’re a good pair.
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What’s the plot of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?

Thirty years after winning his first Tour Championship, retired golfer Happy Gilmore returns to the sport to pay for his daughter Vienna’s ballet school.

Who is in the cast of ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?
- Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore
- Julie Bowen as Virginia Venit
- Christopher McDonald as Shooter McGavin
- Bad Bunny as Oscar
- Ben Stiller as Hal L.
- Dennis Dugan as Doug Thompson
- Kevin Nealon as Gary Potter
- Sunny Sandler as Vienna Gilmore
- Kym Whitley as Bessie
Adam Sandler as Happy Gilmore in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’. Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2024.

List of Adam Sandler Sports Movies:
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)
- ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)
- ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)
- ‘Hustle‘ (2022)
- ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ (2025)
Buy Adam Sandler Movies On Amazon
July 23, 2025
TV Review: ‘Stick’
Owen Wilson in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

‘Stick’ receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.

Released on Apple TV+ on June 4th with three episodes (followed by one every Wednesday through July 23rd), ‘Stick’ looks to play a similar game to Apple smash hit ‘Ted Lasso.’

Starring Owen Wilson, the cast also includes Peter Dager, Marc Maron, Mariana Treviño, Lilli Kay, Judy Greer and Timothy Olyphant.

Related Article: Producer and Marvel Creative Executive Kevin Wright Talks ‘Loki’ Season 2

Initial Thoughts

(L to R) Owen Wilson and Peter Dager in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

Despite its rampant popularity in the professional sporting world, and a legion of amateur club-swingers who head to courses across the world in their free time, golf is a pastime that hasn’t gotten the toe hold in popular culture to the same level as say football or even soccer.

True, there have been a wealth of movies, including the likes of ‘Tin Cup’ and ‘Happy Gilmore,’ but now ‘Stick’ is looking to level the playing field on the small screen. Or should that be course?

Mostly, though, the sport is more a backdrop for the character work, and especially the arc of Wilson’s Pryce, who seeks redemption on the green and off of it. And, much as with ‘Ted Lasso,’ the series around him aims to be a blend of sports story, hangout comedy and some deeper emotions, not all of them as sunny as the lead’s normal disposition.

Script and Direction

Judy Greer in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

‘Stick’ hails from creator Jason Keller, whose output has largely been confined to the big screen, including scripting the likes of ‘Ford V Ferrari,’ ‘Mirror Mirror’ and ‘Machine Gun Preacher.’

Here, teamed with showrunner Christopher Moynihan (‘Marlon,’ ‘100 Questions’), he looks to open up the world of golf in a way not really explored since Adam Sandler’s heavy hitter –– indeed, the character of teen prodigy Santi, played by Peter Dager, has some resonance with Happy Gilmore, since he’s similarly able to thwack a ball great distances (though he’s less burning with anger, more simmering with resentful tension).

The focus, though, is on Pryce, a man who once flirted with true golfing glory, only to let his own anger issues get in the way –– issues that were inflamed by a past tragedy in his life.

Keller and the writers find a way to play to Wilson’s mostly laidback strengths, but still give him opportunities to go in another, fiercer direction when needed.

(L to R) Marc Maron and Owen Wilson in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

Around him, they’ve built an effective set of characters with interesting stories of their own (even Marc Maron’s Mitts, who is mostly the grumpy former caddy-turned-wise old owl has a chance to shine), and if some of the narrative hits a ball into sand trap, the writing retrieves it well enough.

The directors, which include ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ duo Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris alongside David Dobkin (‘Wedding Crashers’, which of course was a big hit for Wilson) and Jaffar Mahmood (‘The Residence’) keep the focus on the people, but also find a way to open up the golf games so as to make them understandable to those who don’t watch it regularly.

Cast and Performances

Mariana Treviño in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

Owen Wilson has found a good groove on the small screen of late –– he was a highlight of both seasons of ‘Loki’ and here is playing a character he can certainly make work. As Pryce “Stick” Cahill, his good-natured charisma shines through, but he’s also willing to go to darker places when necessary. And he plays well off of everyone else, not least Judy Greer (as Pryce’s ex-wife Amber-Lynn) and Peter Dager’s Santi.

Talking of the young golf whizz, Dager is handed and ably brings to life a more complicated role than just a moody teenager with one standout ability. He’s funny and charming at times, and also able to embody Santi’s frustration when life gets in his way.

As mentioned, Judy Greer has a supporting role, but is typically excellent, balancing exasperation with enthusiasm and real heart.

Peter Dager in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

Santi’s mother Elena is brought to screens by ‘A Man Called Otto’s Mariana Treviño, and she’s also effective, treading a careful path between a mother worried about her son and looking to secure her own future. Her chemistry with Maron’s Mitts is particularly rewarding.

Maron always gives good gruff, and the role of Mitts fits him well. He’s got his own reasons for behaving the way he does, and his history with Pryce works.

Lilli Kay adds some romantic interest to Santi’s life, but is more than simply a reason for him to want to impress people. The role becomes more crucial as the story moves along, that Kay is more than up to the task.

Final Thoughts

Marc Maron in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

It might not exactly have quite the same layers as ‘Ted Lasso,’ but if ‘Stick’ doesn’t exactly score a hole in one, it’s able to stay under par and prove to be an effective delivery system for both charming comedy and decent drama.
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What’s the plot of ‘Stick’?

Owen Wilson stars as Pryce Cahill, an over-the-hill, ex-pro golfer whose career was derailed prematurely 20 years ago.

After the collapse of his marriage and getting fired from his job at an Indiana sporting goods store, Pryce hedges his bets, and future, entirely on a troubled 17-year-old golf phenom named Santi (Peter Dager).

The new sports comedy is about a found family and their relationships set within the world of golf as it has never been shown before.

Who is in the cast of ‘Stick’?
- Owen Wilson as Pryce Cahill
- Peter Dager as Santi Wheeler
- Lilly Kay as Zero
- Mariana Treviño as Elena
- Marc Maron as Mitts
- Judy Greer as Amber-Linn
- Timothy Olyphant as Clark Ross
- Rob Benedict as Chuck Gray
Timothy Olyphant in ‘Stick,’ premiering June 4, 2025 on Apple TV+. Photo: Apple TV+.

List of Golf Movies:
- Caddyshack (1980)
- Tin Cup (1996)
- Happy Gilmore (1996)
- The Legend of Bagger Vance (2000)
- Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius (2004)
- The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
- ‘Who’s Your Caddy?‘ (2007)
- Swing Away (2016)
- The Phantom of the Open (2022)
- ‘Happy Gilmore 2‘ (2025)
Buy Golf Movies on Amazon
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June 3, 2025
Ben Stiller to Return for ‘Happy Gilmore 2’
Ben Stiller in ‘Zoolander’. Photo: Paramount Pictures.

Preview:
- Ben Stiller is back for ‘Happy Gilmore 2.’
- Adam Sandler co-wrote and is returning to star in the comedy sequel.
- Travis Kelce and more are aboard the movie, which is shooting now.
After years of speculation, Adam Sandler is making good on his promise to return to the world of unexpected golf prodigy Happy Gilmore, as ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ has been shooting in New Jersey for a few weeks now.
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And fans of the 1996 classic sports comedy will be happy to hear that one of the original players is coming back to –– if we had to guess, though no information has emerged beyond him being spotted on set –– cause trouble for our hero.

Ben Stiller, who played a nursing home orderly named Hal who exaggerates to Happy about the way his grandmother is treated at the facility (more on the plot below) where she’s forced to move, is returning for the new film.

Related Article: Adam Sandler Talks ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ Filming and Plans for Travis Kelce Role

What was the story of ‘Happy Gilmore’?

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Happy Gilmore (Sandler) has long aspired to be a hockey player. Despite a powerful slapshot, Happy’s inability to skate and his volatile behavior excludes him from being accepted by any hockey team. Furthermore, Happy’s grandma is being evicted from her home after failing to pay her taxes.

After playing with some golf clubs and learning he can shoot golf balls far distances, he decides to join the PGA Tour in an effort to win money to buy back his grandmother’s home. Happy’s bad-boy image attracts a loyal following, but also attracts the attention of Shooter McGavin, the favorite to win the PGA Tour who is worried that Happy’s rise to stardom will undermine his shot to win.

Along the way, he’s helped by Carl Weathers’ one-armed mentor, Chubbs and trades blows with ‘The Price is Right’ host Bob Barker.

Who else is in ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?

(L to R) Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Photo: Travis Kelce’s Instagram Account.

Alongside Stiller, some of the cast of the first movie are returning for this one, including Christopher McDonald as Shooter and Julie Bowen as Sandler’s character’s romantic interest, Virginia Venit.

New this time are comedian Nick Swardson, filmmaker Benny Safdie (who has directed Sandler in the past), musician Bad Bunny, actor Margaret Qualley and NFL star Travis Kelce.

What’s the latest news on ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Kyle Newacheck is directing the sequel from a script by Sandler and his frequent collaborator Tim Herlihy.

Not much has been released about the story, but Sandler went on Kelce’s ‘New Heights’ podcast and revealed the following:

“The movie itself picks up from an older guy who played golf a long time. Some stuff goes on in his life, and he’s different. He’s a bit of a mess. And then we try to get his life cooking again.”

When will ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ be on screens?

Netflix is backing the new movie but has yet to announce a release date.

(L to R) Carl Weathers and Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

List of Adam Sandler Sports Movies:
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)
- ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)
- ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)
- ‘Hustle‘ (2022)
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November 14, 2024
Adam Sandler Offers ‘Happy Gilmore’ Sequel Update
(Left) Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Kansas City Chiefs’ Travis Kelce. Photo: Travis Kelce’s Instagram Account.

Preview:
- Adam Sandler says the ‘Happy Gilmore’ sequel starts filming soon.
- NFL star Travis Kelce has a role, as does Sandler’s ‘Uncut Gems’ director Benny Safdie.
- And Kelce has also signed on to a new action comedy.
We’ve known for a while that Adam Sandler has quietly been planning a sequel to one of his biggest hits, golf comedy ‘Happy Gilmore’.

Netflix is backing the new effort, and Sandler has now confirmed that it’ll start shooting soon and that the likes of Kansas City Chiefs tight end (and in wider pop cultural terms, Taylor Swift’s current beau) Travis Kelce and Benny Safdie, who directed Sandler in ‘Uncut Gems’ will both have roles.
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What was the story of ‘Happy Gilmore’?

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Happy Gilmore (Sandler) has long aspired to be a hockey player. Despite a powerful slapshot, Happy’s inability to skate and his volatile behavior excludes him from being accepted by any hockey team. Furthermore, Happy’s grandma is being evicted from her home after failing to pay her taxes.

After playing with some golf clubs and learning he can shoot golf balls far distances, he decides to join the PGA Tour in an effort to win money to buy back his grandmother’s home. Happy’s bad-boy image attracts a loyal following, but also attracts the attention of Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald), the favorite to win the PGA Tour who is worried that Happy’s rise to stardom will undermine his shot to win.

Along the way, he’s helped by Carl Weathers’ one-armed mentor, Chubbs and trades blows with ‘The Price is Right’ host Bob Barker.

Related Article: Adam Sandler to Star in ‘Happy Gilmore’ Sequel for Netflix

What’s the latest news on ‘Happy Gilmore 2’?

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

Appearing on ‘The Tonight Show’, Sandler talked up the schedule for the new movie:

“We’re going to do ‘Happy Gilmore.’ This is happening. We’re getting ready to shoot it in New Jersey. We start in a couple weeks. It’s good. We worked hard on the script. We didn’t want to let anybody down. People have been asking me for a long time. We’re really excited about it. We wrote our asses off. So many of the golfers are being nice and will be a part of it.”

And thanks to efforts from Kelce himself (a dedicated fan of the original) and fans of the player, he’ll have a role.

Here’s what Sandler said on that front:

“Travis… he mentioned it, so we have a nice something for Travis. He’s gonna come by. He’s a very nice guy. You guys would love him in real life. What a big, handsome guy. Funny and cool as hell. He’s a stud and he’s so funny.”

As for Safdie, who has been known for a dual career directing movies alongside brother Josh (though they’re both currently focused on solo projects) and acting, he’ll also crop up, with Sandler telling Indiewire that he’ll “have a juicy part” in the movie.

Where else will we see Travis Kelce?

(L to R) Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Photo: Travis Kelce’s Instagram Account.

Kelce has been busy trying to spin his NFL and Swift-adjacent celebrity into a showbiz career, even as he continues to see success on the field (his Kansas City Chiefs won the Super Bowl this year).

He already has one established gig as the host of Prime Video’s ‘Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?’ quiz show and executive produced dark comedy ‘My Dead Friend Zoe,’ which premiered at SXSW and will be in theaters this coming November.

Now he’s expanding into acting roles. He has one in the can already, ‘Grotesquerie,’ the new horror drama from Ryan Murphy, which premieres on FX on September 25th.

The show focuses on a series of heinous crimes that have unsettled a small community and Detective Lois Tryon (Niecy Nash-Betts), who feels these crimes are eerily personal, as if someone — or something — is taunting her.

Kelce’s role in that is as yet unknown.

But he’s also now looking to take a leading role, snagging the star part in a new action comedy that has some solid backing, according to reporter Jeff Sneider.

‘Loose Cannons’ is the latest production from ‘John Wick’ overseer Chad Stahelski. While he isn’t likely to direct it, the fact that his 87Eleven company is involved means the set pieces should at least be inventive and impressive.

And there’s also a Sandler connection to this one too, albeit a loose one: Timothy Dowling, who has worked with the comedy star on several movies, wrote the ‘Loose Canons’ script, which is being kept under wraps for now.

But if we were to shove our speculation hat on, that title could refer to wayward guns gone missing, or possibly an out-of-control law enforcement officer.

Whatever the story, it’s in development at Lionsgate, but will likely have to cool its heels until Kelce’s schedule opens back up; an expanded cameo in a Sandler film is one thing –– the Kansas City Chiefs are kicking off the 2024 NFL regular season on September 5th.

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore’. Photo: Universal Pictures.

List of Adam Sandler Sports Movies:
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)
- ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)
- ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)
- ‘Hustle‘ (2022)
Buy Adam Sandler Movies On Amazon
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August 21, 2024
Netflix Orders Sequel to Adam Sandler’s ‘Happy Gilmore’
Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

Preview:
- Adam Sandler will return as Happy Gilmore.
- Netflix is backing the sequel.
- We’ll have to wait for other details.
1996 sports comedy ‘Happy Gilmore’ is such a key part of Adam Sandler’s career that it makes up part of his Happy Madison production company logo.

It makes sense then, that, as part of its deal with the comedy star, Netflix has officially ordered a sequel to the movie.
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What was the story of ‘Happy Gilmore’?

Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

Happy Gilmore (Sandler) has long aspired to be a hockey player. Despite a powerful slapshot, Happy’s inability to skate and his volatile behavior excludes him from being accepted by any hockey team. Furthermore, Happy’s grandma is being evicted from her home after failing to pay her taxes.

After playing with some golf clubs and learning he can shoot golf balls far distances, he decides to join the PGA Tour in an effort to win money to buy back his grandmother’s home. Happy’s bad-boy image attracts a loyal following, but also attracts the attention of Shooter McGavin, the favorite to win the PGA Tour who is worried that Happy’s rise to stardom will undermine his shot to win.

Along the way, he’s helped by Carl Weathers’ one-armed mentor, Chubbs and trades blows with ‘The Price is Right’ host Bob Barker.

Related Article: Adam Sandler and Carey Mulligan Talk Director Johan Renck’s ‘Spaceman’

What was said about the sequel?

(L to R) Carl Weathers and Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

While there have been rumors about a follow-up to ‘Happy Gilmore’ for years, more notable news arrived recently from Christopher McDonald, who famously played Shooter in the original.

Here’s what he told the team on Audacy’s 92.3 ‘The Fan’ radio show:

“I saw Adam [Sandler] about two weeks ago, and he says to me, ‘McDonald, you’re gonna love this,’ I said, ‘What?’ He says, ‘How about that,’ and he shows me the first draft of ‘Happy Gilmore 2.’ Maybe you should cut that out [of this audio] because I don’t wanna be a liar, but he did show me that, and I thought, ‘Well, that would be awesome.’ So, it’s in the works. Fans demand it, dammit!”

Fans did indeed demand it, and now it’s happening.

But there will have to be some significant changes to the cast line-up since some of the original actors have since died.

Here’s what Sandler said about paying tribute to those we have lost since 1996:

“I would love [‘The Price is Right’ host] Drew Carey to be in this movie out of respect to Bob [Barker]. When we were writing stuff, Bob was alive. When we were writing stuff, Carl Weathers was alive. When we were writing stuff, Joe Flaherty was alive. It sucks, we love those guys. They were such a big part of the movie and just great people. But we’re going to get them involved somehow. They’ll be involved.”

There are no other details to report about the movie, beyond Netflix making it official.

When will ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ be on screens?

Netflix has yet to announce a release date for the film.

Adam Sandler as Stanley Sugerman in ‘Hustle.’ Photo: Scott Yamano/Netflix © 2022.

List of Adam Sandler Sports Movies:
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘The Waterboy‘ (1998)
- ‘The Longest Yard‘ (2005)
- ‘Uncut Gems‘ (2019)
- ‘Hustle‘ (2022)
Buy Adam Sandler Movies On Amazon
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May 16, 2024
Actor Carl Weathers Dies at the Age of 76
Carl Weathers is Greef Karga in ‘The Mandalorian,’ season two, exclusively on Disney+

Preview:
- Carl Weathers has died at the age of 76.
- He’s famous for the ‘Rocky’ movies, ‘Predator’ and more.
- Tributes have already started to come in for the actor.
Sad news today as action and acting icon Carl Weathers has died at the age of 76.

Weathers, who made his name in the action-orientated likes of ‘Predator’ and the sports drama of the ‘Rocky’ movies, then segued into more comedic roles (often playing himself) and more recently became a key recurring performer on ‘Star Wars’ TV series ‘The Mandalorian.’
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Carl Weathers: Early Life and Career

Carl Weathers in ‘Action Jackson.’ Photo: Lorimar Film Entertainment.

Born on January 14, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Carl Weathers’ initial career was much more focused on sports, specifically football, relying on athletic prowess to overcome adversity.

He played on teams at Long Beach City College, San Diego State (where he also studied theatre, a nod towards his future) and signed on with the Oakland Raiders in 1970, making a mark as a linebacker.

But after various injuries through his time on the gridiron, he decided in 1974 to focus on performance, pursuing a drama degree at San Francisco State University.

Weathers took a familiar route to screens, working on commercials and smaller roles in movies such as ‘The Candidate’ and ‘Magnum Force’.

(L to R) Carl Weathers and Sylvester Stallone in ‘Rocky II.’ Photo: United Artists.

He got a big break thanks to 1976’s ‘Rocky’, where his critiquing Sylvester Stallone’s acting during his audition won him the role of the cocky, ambitious Apollo Creed, a role he’d play three further times.

Outside of ‘Rocky’, he’s also known for playing Dillon in ‘Predator’ and a variety of other movies including ‘Action Jackson’, ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’, and ‘Force 10 from Navarone.’
1973
Carl Weathers: A Comic Re-Invention and More

(L to R) Carl Weathers and Adam Sandler in ‘Happy Gilmore.’ Photo: Universal Pictures.

Some actors might be content with just that successful run, but Weathers took the chance to re-invent himself, often playing versions of himself and appearing in the likes of ‘Happy Gilmore’, ‘Little Nicky’ and as a voice in ‘Eight Crazy Nights’, all alongside Adam Sandler.

He enjoyed several episodes on ‘Arrested Development’ playing a spoof version of himself, who had become an acting tutor.

In addition to a long resume of TV guest credits, he added a whole new generation of fans via his work as Greef Karga, the mercenary wrangler-turned-official for ‘Star Wars’ TV series ‘The Mandalorian.

Weathers also stepped behind the camera as a director, shooting episodes of ‘The Mandalorian’ as well as ‘Law & Order’, ‘Chicago Med’, ‘FBI’ and more. He served on the Directors Guild of America board and various committees, helping others navigate the job.
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Carl Weathers remembered by his family

(Center) Carl Weathers and Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1987’s ‘Predator.’ Photo: 20th Century Fox.

Weathers’ family announced his death with a statement:

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Carl Weathers. He died peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, February 1st, 2024. … Carl was an exceptional human being who lived an extraordinary life. Through his contributions to film, television, the arts and sports, he has left an indelible mark and is recognized worldwide and across generations. He was a beloved brother, father, grandfather, partner, and friend.”

Weathers is survived by his ex-wife, Mary Ann, and their two sons.

(L to R) Gina Carano is Cara Dune and Carl Weathers is Greef Karga in Lucasfilm’s ‘The Mandaorian,’ season two, exclusively on Disney+. © 2020 Lucasfilm Ltd. & ™. All Rights Reserved.

Carl Weathers Movies:
- ‘The Candidate‘ (1972)
- ‘Magnum Force‘ (1973)
- ‘Rocky‘ (1976)
- ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind‘ (1977)
- ‘Semi-Tough‘ (1977)
- ‘Rocky II‘ (1979)
- ‘Death Hunt‘ (1981)
- ‘Rocky III‘ (1982)
- ‘Rocky IV‘ (2021)
- ‘Predator‘ (1987)
- ‘Action Jackson‘ (1988)
- ‘Happy Gilmore‘ (1996)
- ‘Little Nicky‘ (2000)
- ‘Eight Crazy Nights‘ (2002)
- ‘The Comebacks‘ (2007)
- ‘Think Like a Man Too‘ (2014)
- ‘Toy Story 4‘ (2019)
Buy Carl Weathers Movies On Amazon
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February 2, 2024
19 Movies You Probably Memorized Because They Were on Cable

Paramount/WB/Sony

Lucasfilm

Sony

Paramount

MGM

Fox

WB

WB

WB

Paramount

Sony

WB

New Line

WB

Universal

Paramount

Universal

Universal

New Line

New Line

August 1, 2018