The Phantom of the Open

In the 1970s, Maurice Flitcroft works as a crane operator at Vickers in Barrow-in-Furness. He leads a modest but content life, emphasizing to his sons the belief that they can pursue their dreams regardless of circumstances.

Maurice's step-son, Michael, achieves notable academic success, quickly rising through the ranks at Vickers. His hard work reflects the positive influence of Maurice's nurturing approach to parenting.

Michael warns Maurice about the impending nationalization of Vickers, suggesting that it could lead to job losses. This revelation prompts Maurice to consider alternative paths to support his family.

While watching the British Open on television, Maurice is inspired by the £10,000 prize and decides to take up golf. Encouraged by his supportive wife, Jean, he resolves to enter the next tournament.

Armed with a cheap set of clubs, Maurice begins to practice golf obsessively. He attempts to learn the sport through an instruction book and practices on the beach and nearby fields, despite the challenges he faces.

Struggling with the tournament entry process, Maurice writes to the BBC golf presenter for guidance. He subsequently learns that he can enter by filling out an application form and decides to declare himself a professional golfer.

Maurice's application to the 1976 Open is surprisingly accepted, despite the R&A's lack of knowledge regarding his identity. They assume that no one would dare to lie on an application, mistakenly validating Maurice's claims.

At the tournament, Maurice finishes with a score of 121, setting the record for the worst score by a 'professional' golfer in Open history. His participation garners significant media attention, igniting public fascination with his story.

While Maurice's antics capture the public's heart, they bring humiliation to Michael, leading his managers to recommend he distance himself from Maurice. This growing rift reflects the toll of Maurice's newfound fame on family dynamics.

Angered by Maurice's televised performance and his promise to return, the R&A bans him from future tournaments and prevents him from playing at any golf course in the UK. Despite this setback, Maurice's passion for golf remains undeterred.

Determined to play, Maurice adopts a series of fake identities and disguises to re-enter tournaments. His commitment to golf grows alongside his desire for recognition, leading him to seek media appearances to maintain his profile.

A decade later, Maurice and Jean find themselves living in a caravan. While his twin sons Gene and James achieved success in disco competitions, the decline of that genre leaves them struggling for income.

The family's return home leads to a tense reunion, with Michael expressing criticism over their unrealistic dreams. Despite the friction, this moment signals a shift in their collective realizations and responsibilities.

Maurice receives a letter from America announcing that his unique golf style has inspired the creation of a new tournament centered on poor performance. This unexpected honor brings the family back together in celebration.

The family is flown to America, where Maurice is celebrated as a keynote speaker at a gala event. Even Michael reconciles with his step-father, recognizing Maurice's transformation from a figure of embarrassment to an inspiring role model.