Day 3

[John Vanderberg]

Where is Junah coming from?
I haven’t this movie, so I only know what you’ve said from the set up. Junah needs to beat the greatest golfers alive to win the match, but has lost his swing, so he’s desperately practicing and trying to find his groove. I don’t know anything more about him.

Where is Bagger Vance coming from?
Again, I don’t really have a reference other than this scene. It seems a complete stranger wanders out of the darkness and offers to be his caddy, and mysteriously states that Junah has lost his swing. He’ll certainly be playing the role of mentor/coach/trusted adviser, and he seems to be an unlikely one, based on his strolling out of the darkness. I really don’t know his perspective or where he’s coming from. I can’t tell if he’s imaginary, or a complete unknown, or an upcoming golf great. Again, sorry, I don’t really know where he’s coming from.

What makes them right for their roles?
Will Smith is unassuming but seems to have a natural gift and an intriguing way of gaining Junah’s interest and trust. He’s a bit like the way Yoda acts the first time Luke meets him—an unassuming teacher of sorts.
Meanwhile, Junah isn’t much interested and is too focused on hitting balls to pay him much attention until Bagger strokes one and diagnoses that Junah has lost his swing.

My insight is that the scene is clever and roundabout in its creation of their bond, or moment, after what feels more like an interruption or nuisance from a passerby.

I can see how creative introductions can lead to a stronger relationship or “magical moment” of connection, rather than more direct ones.

I think if I saw more of the movie or was more familiar with the story, this scene may have meant more to the theme of this assignment. I am an avid golfer and I’ve heard of the movie – just never saw it. I’ll have to check it out. 🙂