Owen Wilson's new Apple TV+ series, 'Stick,' a comedy-drama centered around golf, has triggered a spectrum of opinions, especially among seasoned golfers. The show aims to blend comedic elements with the intricacies of professional golf, but its approach has led to a divided reception. While critics acknowledge its entertainment value and Wilson's compelling portrayal of a washed-up pro, a significant portion of the golfing community expresses dissatisfaction with the series' technical inaccuracies and character development, igniting lively debates across social media platforms regarding the balance between authenticity and dramatic storytelling in sports-themed productions.

The series, featuring Owen Wilson as Pryce \"Stick\" Cahill, a former professional golfer attempting a comeback, has drawn scrutiny for its depiction of the sport. Despite Wilson's commendable effort to master a convincing golf swing, with assistance from golf consultant Nathan Leonhardt and the use of doubles, many viewers, particularly those familiar with the sport, point out numerous inconsistencies. Instances such as a young prodigy, Santiago Wheeler (played by Peter Dager), hitting improbable shots with poor equipment, or taking extended breaks during competitive rounds, are highlighted as major deviations from golfing reality. These perceived errors, including mischaracterizations of shot types and course layouts, have led to discussions about whether the show sacrifices accuracy for dramatic effect, drawing comparisons to other golf-themed films like 'Tin Cup' and 'Happy Gilmore.' The argument suggests that while some artistic license is expected, 'Stick' might have pushed the boundaries too far for its intended audience of golf enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the introduction of the character Zero, portrayed by Lilli Kay, has fueled much of the online criticism. Zero, initially a clubhouse bartender, evolves into Santiago's caddy and identifies as \"genderqueer anticapitalist post-colonial feminist.\" This character's integration and evolving role in the narrative have been met with resistance from a segment of the audience, who view her as an unlikable caricature. Online forums, particularly within golf communities, reveal widespread disapproval, with commenters often citing Zero as a significant factor diminishing their enjoyment of the show. While the actress identifies as LGBTQ+, the character's reception appears to stem more from perceived personality traits and storyline integration rather than her identity, sparking conversations about audience preferences and character archetypes in contemporary television.

The criticism extends beyond golf-specific details to broader issues of character appeal and narrative coherence. Viewers, including recreational golfers, note a general lack of appealing characters outside of Wilson's and Marc Maron's performances. Concerns are also raised about the plausibility of certain plot points, such as a coach demanding a substantial fee from a struggling golfer. Despite some professional critics initially giving 'Stick' positive reviews, its Rotten Tomatoes score has seen a decline in audience ratings, reflecting the growing sentiment of disappointment. The show's perceived shortcomings underscore the challenges of creating sports-centric content that satisfies both casual viewers and dedicated fans who possess an intimate understanding of the sport's nuances.

Ultimately, 'Stick' navigates the complex terrain of sports entertainment, attempting to deliver a heartwarming narrative within the competitive world of golf. However, its creative choices, particularly concerning golfing accuracy and character development, have alienated a significant portion of its target demographic. The show's struggle to resonate universally highlights the delicate balance required when fictionalizing a sport that demands precision and adheres to specific rules and traditions. The ongoing discourse surrounding 'Stick' serves as a reminder that authenticity, even in fictional portrayals, can be crucial for audience engagement and critical acclaim within specialized interest communities.