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The concept of a close-knit community battling against modern encroachments is a timeless narrative device often explored in cinema. This familiar theme resonates with a sense of nostalgia, evoking warmth akin to reconnecting with an old friend. At its core, the story usually revolves around a cherished local business or landmark under threat from a newcomer, representing the corporate machine ready to supplant it with generic developments like strip malls or bland residential complexes. Typically, the community bands together to protect their beloved space, and there are instances when the antagonist experiences a change of heart, recognizing the value of tradition and collective identity.
Films such as Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Barbershop, and The Muppets (2011) exemplify this genre. The latest addition to this narrative tradition is set to debut on April 25, 2025. Titled The Salamander King, this film premiered at the Dallas International Film Festival and centers on the vibrantly eclectic crew at the Austin Municipal Golf Course, affectionately known as MUNY. This public golf course stands out for its casual ambiance, defying the norms of elitist golf culture with its relaxed dress code—think shorts and t-shirts instead of collared shirts and slacks. Here, the locals engage in the sport not just for the game but also for the camaraderie, soaking up the sun and sharing moments together.
Fighting to Keep the Golf Course Weird
Rating: 3/5
Runtime: 97 Minutes
Director: Austin Nichols
Writers: Drew Mackintosh
Pros & Cons
- Comedians Ryan Hansen and Dulcé Sloan deliver outstanding performances, adding depth to their otherwise standard roles.
- The film captures the spirit of Austin through numerous local nods and vivid imagery of beloved establishments.
- The portrayal of gentrification feels clichéd and lacks originality.
- The foundational story and character archetypes seem somewhat predictable and uninspired.
Austin continues to grow in popularity, often ranked among the best places to live in America, with MUNY’s financial struggles reflecting the city’s rising desirability. Occupying a prime location near downtown, MUNY spans 130 acres, and it’s here that Samantha “Sam” Lambert (Adrianne Palicki), a municipal consultant, steps in to present a contrasting approach to the public course’s management.
Ray Mueller (Ryan Hansen), MUNY’s easy-going golf instructor, embodies the spirit of Austin and resists Sam’s corporate strategies. Living in an Airstream on the property, Ray spends his days teaching golf to novices, enjoying the local culture, and clashing with Sam’s regimented tactics. Their conflicting personalities illuminate the broader struggle to maintain the unique character of MUNY while navigating the pressures of profitability.
Another Love Letter to Another U.S. City
In his directorial debut, Austin Nichols, known from One Tree Hill and The Day After Tomorrow, captures his affection for Austin and its distinctive residents. The film features landmarks such as El Arroyo and the Paramount Theatre, but despite these heartwarming tributes to local culture, the overarching plot lacks freshness.
The fictional depiction of MUNY is rooted in the actual struggle to preserve the historical Lions Municipal Golf Course in Austin, which was notable for its desegregation efforts. While The Salamander King takes creative liberties, it gestures toward significant real-life narratives within the golf community.
A Trusty Band of Misfits Offers Cookie-Cutter Characters
The film introduces a quirky ensemble reminiscent of Parks and Recreation, yet, some characters feel like mere clichés. Ray represents the carefree spirit resistant to change; Sam embodies a more serious, rule-oriented approach. Their romantic tension is palpable but predictable, leading viewers down familiar paths.
The supporting cast, including Roberta Solomon (Dulcé Sloan), provides moments of humor and depth but could have been fleshed out further to match the vibrant context of Austin.
Yes, Even the Snobbery of Golf Can Be Gentrified
The theme of gentrification serves as a backdrop, highlighting tensions within communities facing transformation. The film reflects real concerns about affordability and access as Sam implements strict policies at MUNY, transforming it into a space that caters predominantly to wealthier patrons. This shift dampens the essence that once made MUNY a community fixture.
As Ray points out, the escalating rents and commercial pressures create a divide that threatens to erase the very identity of the neighborhood. The film artfully acknowledges these changes, even if it doesn’t delve deeply into their implications.
The term “salamander” in the title alludes to the local blind salamander species whose habitat preservation echoed struggles of identity and community. The characters in The Salamander King reflect this sentiment, standing as representatives of the creative spirit that thrives in Austin.
While the film adheres to familiar narrative tropes and predictable structures, it possesses a certain charm, appealing to those looking for lighthearted storytelling with a nostalgic twist. The Salamander King had its world premiere at the Dallas International Film Festival and will have another screening on April 26, 2025. Additional details regarding its wide release are forthcoming. Find out more about the event here.
Source
movieweb.com