The Secret Life Of Caddies On Screen At Guild Hall

Centuries old and enjoyed by tens of millions of people worldwide, golf is seen by many as more than a sport. Yet what do we know about the other person on the course? The man or woman behind the player carrying the bag?

On Saturday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m., as part of its “Now Showing” series, Hamptons International Film Festival (HIFF) screens “Loopers: The Caddie’s Long Walk,” a feature length documentary narrated by Bill Murray that explores the incredible personal bond between golfer and caddie.

It is often said that a good caddie does three things: show up, keep up and shut up. But a great caddie wears many hats. He or she is the golfer’s psychologist, mother/father figure, technical advisor and confidante. The film unveils the working dynamic between famous partnerships like the heartfelt story of Tom Watson’s and caddie Bruce Edwards. Conversely, it delves into the making of a caddie’s career with stories like Greg Puga—a young Bel Air caddie from East Los Angeles who fought his way to Augusta National to play in the Masters as a Mid-Amateur Champ. Whether familiar or new, the stories told in the film make you re-think the way you look at golf, and especially the job of the caddie.

“Loopers: The Caddie’s Long Walk” was shot at courses including Pebble Beach, Augusta National, St. Andrews, Carnoustie, Prestwick, Ballybunion, and Lahinch.

Tickets to the screening are $15 ($10 for Guild Hall members) at guildhall.org or 631-324-4050. Guild Hall is located at 158 Main Street, East Hampton. HIFF’s “Now Showing” series brings acclaimed first-run art house, independent, and world cinema films currently in theaters to the East End.