First impression: “The Long Game” is an emotionally strong coming-of-age story about an unlikely Mexican-American high school golf team that had to overcome the racism and elitism of Texas in the 1950s. The movie benefits from the strong performances from leading man Jay Hernandez and future Latino newcomer stars-in-the-making such as Julian Works and Paulina Chavez, who light up the screen with their charisma and acting ability. “The Long Game” will be remembered better than most of the “minorities overcoming historical institutional racism” films of its genre.

When you think about the history and culture of the game of golf, what comes to mind? Maybe you think of stuffy elitism—where rich people play in lavish exclusive country clubs that are meant only for those deemed worthy through family or monetary connections. So, if I were to tell you there’s a “based on a true story” story about some scrappy Mexican-American blue-collar kids who take up golf and dominate the sport at the high school level, you would think I’m crazy, right? Well, surprisingly, you would be wrong!

“The Long Game” is based on a self-published book by Author Humberto G. Garcia. He wrote about how, in 1955, five teenage Mexican-American caddies who really loved the game of golf created their own golf course in the middle of south Texas. The five teens had no professional instruction and had to use inferior outdated equipment, but remarkably, they somehow went on to compete against wealthy all-white teams and win the 1957 Texas State High School Golf Championship. Just typing this feels like a work of fiction, but it actually happened, and it helped to inspire a new generation of Latino golfers and increase the popularity of the sport in specific Latino communities.

The movie has a great message about perseverance and determination to overcome obstacles and to believe in yourself and your abilities. The movie also goes to great lengths to show just how big the obstacles were for the upstart team and its coach, JD Pena, played by the underrated Jay Hernandez, a WW2 veteran who, despite his service, is discriminated against and denied membership to the local country club. It turns out that the club president is upfront with him—he has no issues with him joining but other members would have issues “seeing a Mexican on the course.”

The movie also plays against the “white savior complex” by making Dennis Quaid Hernandez’s assistant coach—I thought this was an interesting dynamic. Another great aspect of the film is the new Latino talent introduced in the film. Julian Works plays team captain Joe Trevino and his girlfriend Daniella is played by Paulina Chavez. These two young actors did great at stealing the scenes they were in. I can’t wait to see the future projects that they will be taking on in Hollywood.

Also, legendary comedian and avid golfer Cheech Marin shows up and gets a laugh every time he’s onscreen, so that helps this movie a lot when it comes to breaking the tension from all the casual racism faced by the team.

Final Verdict 4 out of 5 Stars Final