Romance Is Great, But ‘Tin Cup’ Wins As A Sports Film

“Tin Cup” is being hyped as a brilliant romantic comedy. OK, sure. That aspect of the movie is enjoyable, but the claim to fame for “Tin Cup” should be its excellent sports drama.

Ron Shelton’s new golf movie brilliantly portrays the physical and psychological growth - and lack of it - of a man questing to win the U.S Open. Of course, he makes the quest to win the heart of a woman, but that only makes it Hollywood.

In fact the story of “Tin Cup” much parallels the sports classic “Hoosiers.” While the drama in “Tin Cup” is more personalized, the ups and downs of making it big are chronicled nearly the same way in both movies. And common to the two films is the intensity of the drama - so strong that it becomes painful to see the “good guys” lost at all.

By focusing on the sports side of this film, though, I don’t want to give the impression that the romance is poorly done. It is not. The chemistry between Kevin Costner and Rene Russo is in classic Hollywood style - unlikely, but all the more magical because of that.

Contributing to both the sports and the romantic stories, “Tin Cup” thankfully takes time to develop the four main characters.

Kevin Costner plays the driving range pro, former college golf star and all-around good guy most of the time, Roy “Tin Cup” McAvoy. He often gets himself into trouble with his unpredictable temper and fierce competitiveness, but these traits are also part of his charm.

The object of his charms, Molly Griswold (played by Russo) nearly steals the show. She is the classic Hollywood love interest with a ‘90s twist - she dreams of two men she can’t decide between.

Tin Cup’s opponent in both love and golf is David Simms, wonderfully portrayed by Don Johnson. Simms represents everything McAvoy doesn’t: reason, stability and total predictability. And with those comparisons made, a question for you: Who will end up with the girl?

Illogically but pleasantly rounding out the foursome is Cheech Marin as Romeo, Tin Cup’s caddy.

While Marin is known for his comic ability, he provides both poignancy and slapstick laughs. But I won’t give them away; they’re more easily understood if you find them for yourself.

Deeper meaning or not, “Tin Cup” should be enjoyable for anyone. With romance, comedy and athletics, all rolled in one, it makes for a pleasant and memorable two hours at the movies.

Grade: A