The Hawk: A Golf Comedy with a Familiar Face
Will Ferrell's latest Netflix series, 'The Hawk,' is a golf-centric comedy that follows the journey of Lonnie 'The Hawk' Hawkins, a former professional golfer who is now working on the minor league Korn Ferry Tour. The show is a familiar formula for Ferrell fans, as it follows in the footsteps of his previous sports-themed comedies like 'Blades of Glory,' 'Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby,' and 'Semi-Pro.' However, 'The Hawk' has a unique charm, thanks to Ferrell's love for the sport and his ability to create a silly yet affectionate world.
Ferrell plays Lonnie 'The Hawk' Hawkins, a golfer who choked on the 18th hole at Pebble Beach in 2010, missing a three-foot putt that could have been a career grand slam. Now, as his son Lance (Jimmy Tatro) rises through the ranks of the PGA circuit, Lonnie is working on the Korn Ferry Tour, putting on a show with his longtime caddy and friend, Old Henry (Keith David). The departure of Old Henry after just eight minutes is a disappointment to fans, but it opens the door for Fortune Feimster's Sam, who becomes Lonnie's new caddy despite her lack of golf knowledge.
Lonnie's dream is to get back to the PGA tour and claim that elusive grand slam. He's engaged in a rivalry with Golden Fisk (Luke Wilson), the player he lost to in 2010. Lance, on the other hand, is engaged to Natalie (Katelyn Tarver), an aspiring wellness influencer who polices his eating and drinking habits. Despite her presence, the show doesn't play her as a caricature, and Lance's primary focus remains golf.
The cast also includes David Hornsby as Radford, a traveling companion and potential love interest for Lonnie's ex-wife, Stacy (Molly Shannon). Shannon's character is a highlight, with her graphic dialogue and over-the-top performance. Feimster's journey is also significant, as she plays a character with multiple shades, adding depth to the show.
Ferrell's performance as Lonnie is a mix of overgrown child and narcissist, with a jolly and inclusive demeanor. He assumes he's a party everyone wants to attend, and his generosity is often portrayed as a demonstration of his kindness. Shannon's character, Stacy, is a hurricane of graphic dialogue and violence, adding a layer of humor to the show.
However, 'The Hawk' is not without its flaws. The plot mechanics have occasional problems, with threads trailing off into nothing and scenes contradicting previous events. Lance's gambling problem is inconsistent, and the climax is somewhat wanting. Despite these issues, the show remains entertaining and funny, with Ferrell's improvisational style leaving its mark.
'The Hawk' is a sentimental and juvenile comedy, delivered with great vigor. It's a familiar formula for Ferrell, but his love for golf and the sport's inherent humor make it a delightful watch. The show's focus on the relationship between Lonnie and Sam, rather than the golf itself, adds a layer of depth to the sports story.
In conclusion, 'The Hawk' is a must-watch for Ferrell fans and golf enthusiasts alike. It's a silly and affectionate comedy that showcases Ferrell's talent for creating a unique and entertaining world. While it may not be perfect, it's a fun and engaging watch that will leave viewers smiling.
