'Delightful movie' based on unbelievable true story but fans only have days to watch

Film buffs are urged to catch the 'delightfulThe Phantom of the Open on BBC iPlayer before it vanishes on June 9. This charming British flick, which chronicles the life of Maurice Flitcroft, a man famed for his record-breaking worst score at the Open Championship, has captured the hearts of viewers.

The film, which debuted in 2021, is an adaptation of the biography The Phantom of the Open: Maurice Flitcroft, The World's Worst Golfer by Simon Farnaby and Scott Murray. Set against the backdrop of the 1970s, it stars the esteemed Sir Mark Rylance as the endearingly inept golfer.

Maurice's tale is one of relentless ambition and unshakeable confidence as he endeavours to compete with the creme de la creme of golf, much to the chagrin of the sport's upper crust, all while maintaining his day job as a crane operator.

A glowing review from Rotten Tomatoes reads: "On performances alone, this has to rate highly! MR is a superb choice as the lead, as he deftly matches Maurice's mannerisms and character. The story has a wry humour throughout, mostly due to the slight woodiness of Maurice and the absurdity of his actions and choices.

"It is a remarkably unusual movie, based on a quirky, oddball individual and his family.", reports .

Another viewer added: "Simply adorable - a delightful feel-good movie. It's certainly not a big blockbuster. It's just a small movie with a small but uplifting story. Sometimes we just need one of these feel-good movies every once while."

Joining Mark Rylance on screen is Sally Hawkins, playing his loving wife Jean, along with Notting Hill comedic actor Rhys Ifans, Jake Davies, Christian and Johann Myers.

Many viewers have heaped praise on the cast for their roles in this heartwarming tale that melds humour with poignant moments.

One audience member said: "A true story based on the hardships of life and reality, exposing the discriminations of golf.

"An emotional film that talks of family and its importance. Follow your dreams to disappointment or follow the crowd and dream on."S

adly, Maurice Flitcroft passed on due to a lung infection in 2007 at the age of 77, but his extraordinary tale lives anew in 'The Phantom of the Open,' available now on BBC iPlayer until it vanishes after June 9.