The Long Game

In 1956 Texas, the small town of Del Rio is engulfed in a tense atmosphere marked by racial hostility. Young Latino man Joe Trevino navigates these perilous streets, aware that any misstep could lead to dire consequences.

After a violent encounter with three white boys almost turns deadly, Joe is saved just in time by his friends Felipe, Mario, Gene, and Lupe. This incident highlights the precariousness of life for minorities in a racially charged environment.

JB Peña, a high school superintendent and former Marine, grapples with anxiety as he prepares for an important meeting with the president of the Del Rio Country Club. His wife's attempts to comfort him suggest deeper underlying issues regarding race and acceptance.

As Joe and his friends work as caddies at the country club, they confront a complex hierarchy filled with rampant racism. Joe receives a commendation and a generous tip, revealing the unfair treatment compared to his friends.

In a moment of rebellion, Joe urinates on Judge Cox's prized car, a powerful act of resistance against conformity and discrimination. This raises the stakes for him and his friends as they navigate a hostile environment.

At their sanctuary, El Llanito, Joe accidentally shatters JB's car window while practicing golf. This event marks a significant turning point in their relationship, leading to discussions about the future of the high school golf team.

JB proposes an offer to the boys: if they help him fix the window, they can revitalize the high school golf team. The boys' eagerness to accept, along with Joe's reluctance, signals a growing tension between ambition and fear.

JB invites Frank Mitchell and his wife for dinner, discussing how golf intersects with his life. He aims to have Frank assist with coaching, seeking to bridge the gap between the country club's exclusivity and the boys' potential.

The boys undergo rigorous training under JB's guidance, despite feeling constrained by rules on presentation and etiquette. Their dedication transforms them into a cohesive team, ready to take on bigger challenges.

During their debut in a championship, the boys face a predominantly white audience, including a displeased Judge Cox. Despite the hostility, their sportsmanship catches the attention of the organizers, ensuring future opportunities.

After celebrating at a diner, the boys confront blatant racism, igniting Joe's anger. His impulsive reaction leads to further complications, drawing JB's concerns about setting a precedent for future generations.

A barbecue serves as a backdrop to Joe's struggles with media attention and family reputation. Seeking solace, he discusses dreams of breaking free from their circumstances with Daniella, hinting at personal desires beyond golf.

As the state championship approaches, tensions escalate with Joe facing repercussions from past actions. JB’s selfless declaration of guilt leads to his brief arrest, shifting focus back to the importance of unity and integrity.

Despite the challenges, Joe leads his team to an unexpected victory at the championship. Their achievement resonates beyond trophies, establishing an empowering legacy in their racially charged community.

In the wake of their success, Joe decides to forgo the next tee time to visit Daniella in Austin. This choice marks a pivotal moment for him, embracing change and the potential for personal growth away from the town's struggles.