(Apple TV+ Press 2025)
In a world of high-stake thrillers and anxiety-inducing content, Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime’s Stick offers something increasingly rare: television that soothes rather than stresses. Owen Wilson stars as Pryce Cahill in this feel-good series that premiered June 4, 2025. Created by Jason Keller, the series follows Pryce as he attempts to rebuild both his personal and professional life after his breakdown became a public spectacle at a golf tournament (IMDb 2025.) When Pryce crosses paths with a rebellious teen, he puts everything on the line in hopes that this will be his opportunity to redeem his reputation and begin to piece what is left of his life back together. This series seamlessly blends light-hearted comedy with serious moments and romance creating an effortlessly engaging watch. The show adopted a weekly release strategy, giving audiences a small taste of feel-good TV that left them wanting more. This tactic proved effective, with the show being renewed for a second season on July 23, 2025.
(IGN 2025)
What makes Stick an easy, yet entertaining watch is how it handles each character’s journey, particularly Pryce’s, throughout the season. Pryce’s downfall continues to haunt him as he returns to the golf scene – an area he once dominated, in a different role. The young actor playing Santi, Peter Dager delivers a grounded performance, creating a relationship with Pryce that holds an authentic feel (Sloop 2025.) In an unlikely partnership, Pryce and Santi form a friendship that offers a refreshing take on the familiar mentor-student trope, where each character fills a void in the other’s life without overstepping boundaries. While Pryce seemingly has more at stake, this is the kid’s chance at revival after his father, who doubled as his coach forever tainted golf for him.
Wilson’s well-known laid-back style works perfectly for this role, as he gives his character a comedic yet self-aware edge. His timing is excellent yet never feeling forced. He handles both the comedic and dramatic moments with an authenticity that feels natural, perhaps due to the organic way his acting career began.
(Apple TV+ Press 2025)
Santi’s love interest, Zero, is a standout supporting character who’s initially jarring ‘woke’ persona seems to clash with the older males, notably Pryce and his best mate Mitts. However, this dynamic eventually develops into something meaningful. The group chemistry feels natural, with their evolving arcs remaining believable. The individual strength of each of the cast members ensures a successful overall ensemble.
“The joy of us making the thing shows up on the show” (Frederick 2025)
Lilli Kay notes, as she reflects how the positive filming experience translates to authentic on-screen relationships. Along with the characters of the show, the dialogue in Stick has a natural flow. While critics claim that the show isn’t funny or bold enough, I believe that playing in the milder regions of humour keeps the show from being too corny and ensures it stays realistic. Witty exchanges emerge organically through character interactions rather than predictable setups.
Visually, the show surprised me, with cinematic shots of the fairway paired with tightly cropped shots of the characters in important moments. This focus during banter and emotional scenes effectively draws in the audience and gives the show its polished feel. These deliberate visual choices enhance the storytelling by creating intimacy during crucial character moments while showcasing the beauty of the golf setting. Keller further ensured Sticks watchability by employing technically accurate mannerisms and actions of the golfers. The creative choices made throughout the show keep it from being mundane. The pacing moves at a perfect balance, weaving in comedy and a small dose of drama to keep their audiences engaged.
It is no surprise that the show is being compared to the hugely popular soccer series, Ted Lasso. Both shows feature an inspirational mentor with their own flaws, carrying their darkness with light-hearted attitudes. While people were quick to write Stick off as too similar to Ted Lasso, it quickly became its own thing and attracted loyal viewers. While soccer is more widely relatable, Stick proves that golf can be just as compelling by framing it as a foundation for connection rather than focusing on golf as a technical activity.
(F 2025)
Stick succeeds through its heartfelt character work and the natural chemistry between Wilson and the young cast. The writing balances humour with quiet emotional beats, while its pacing ensures episodes feel light yet substantial. The show’s greatest strength is its ability to be comforting without being shallow. It targets viewers seeking uplifting, low-stress TV and cleverly emphasises connection, resilience, and understated inclusivity.
(Gomez 2025)
Stick may not redefine the sports-comedy genre, but it doesn’t need to. With Wilson’s effortless charm, heartfelt writing, and authentic relationships, it delivers a show that’s both entertaining and quietly moving, with season 2 holding promise for continued comfort viewing.
“Look to this show for positivity, look to this show to feel good. That’s what I hope audiences find in this show.” – Jason Keller (Barrett 2025.)
That’s exactly what this show does, for people who need feel-good TV and don’t want to be overwhelmed by drama, this is the series for you.
Caitlin 
Clara 
Kath Smart