The Long Game, a compelling sports drama set in 1950s Texas, takes viewers on an inspiring journey of perseverance and triumph.
Directed by Julio Quintana and based on the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs, this film brings to life the remarkable tale of Mexican-American youths who overcame racial prejudice to make golfing history.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of filming locations and the talented cast that brought this story to the silver screen.
Behind the Scenes: Filming Locations
Colombia: An Unexpected Backdrop
While The Long Game is set in Texas, the production team made the bold choice to film part of the movie in Colombia. This decision brought both unique opportunities and challenges to the project.
Why Colombia?
- Cost-effectiveness: Colombia offers competitive pricing for film production.
- Diverse landscapes: The country’s varied terrain could stand in for multiple locations.
- Experienced film crews: Colombia has a growing film industry with skilled professionals.
The Colombian filming locations primarily served as stand-ins for the golf courses featured in the movie. The lush greenery and rolling hills of Colombia’s countryside provided a perfect backdrop for the golfing scenes, allowing the filmmakers to capture the essence of 1950s Texas golf courses without the need for extensive set construction.
“Colombia’s natural beauty gave us the perfect canvas to recreate the golf courses of 1950s Texas. It was a challenge, but the results are stunning.” – Julio Quintana, Director
Read more about this: A Greek Recipe for Romance Filming Locations
Smithville, Texas: Small Town, Big Heart
Smithville, a charming town in Bastrop County, Texas, played a crucial role in bringing The Long Game to life. This picturesque location offered the perfect blend of authenticity and small-town charm that the story demanded.
Key Scenes Shot in Smithville:
- Downtown street scenes
- Exterior shots of the characters’ homes
- School and community gathering locations
The town’s residents embraced the production, with many serving as extras and helping to transform Smithville into a 1950s version of itself. Local businesses got involved, temporarily altering their storefronts to fit the period aesthetic.
Bastrop, Texas: A Hub of Historical Significance
Neighboring Bastrop also served as a vital filming location for The Long Game. Known for its well-preserved historic downtown, Bastrop provided the perfect backdrop for several key scenes.
Notable Bastrop Locations:
| Location | Purpose in the Film |
|---|---|
| Main Street | Period-accurate streetscapes |
| Bastrop State Park | Outdoor scenes and natural settings |
| Old County Courthouse | Government and official buildings |
Bastrop’s rich history and architecture allowed the filmmakers to authentically recreate the 1950s era without relying heavily on CGI or set construction. This attention to detail helps immerse viewers in the world of the San Felipe Mustangs.
Meet the Cast: Bringing “The Long Game” to Life
The success of any film relies heavily on its cast, and The Long Game boasts an impressive ensemble that brings depth and authenticity to this inspiring story.
Lead Actors
Jay Hernandez as JB Peña
Jay Hernandez, known for his roles in “Crazy/Beautiful” and “Suicide Squad,” takes on the pivotal role of JB Peña, the coach who guides the San Felipe Mustangs to greatness. Hernandez’s preparation for the role involved:
- Studying the real JB Peña’s mannerisms and coaching style
- Learning the basics of golf to authentically portray a coach
- Immersing himself in 1950s Texan culture and dialect
Dennis Quaid as Frank Mitchell
Veteran actor Dennis Quaid brings his considerable talent to the role of Frank Mitchell, a key figure in the Mustangs’ journey. Quaid’s involvement lends gravitas to the project, and his preparation included:
- Researching the social dynamics of 1950s Texas
- Working on his golf swing to portray a believable golfer
- Collaborating closely with the younger cast members to build authentic on-screen relationships
Supporting Cast
Cheech Marin as Joe Treviño
Beloved comedian and actor Cheech Marin takes on a more serious role as Joe Treviño, adding depth and occasional humor to the story. Marin’s performance is expected to be a standout, bringing warmth and wisdom to his character.
Julian Works as Colt Woods
Rising star Julian Works portrays Colt Woods, one of the young golfers on the San Felipe Mustangs team. Works’ preparation for the role was intensive:
- Learning to play golf from scratch
- Studying the experiences of Mexican-American youth in 1950s Texas
- Building camaraderie with his fellow young cast members off-screen to enhance on-screen chemistry
Director and Key Crew
Julio Quintana: Visionary at the Helm
Director Julio Quintana brings a unique perspective to The Long Game. With a background in both filmmaking and engineering, Quintana approached the project with a blend of technical precision and artistic vision.
Quintana’s approach to the film included:
- Extensive research into the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs
- Collaborating closely with the art department to ensure period accuracy
- Encouraging improvisation among the cast to capture authentic moments
Humberto G. Garcia: Bringing the Story to Life
Screenwriter Humberto G. Garcia played a crucial role in adapting the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs for the screen. Garcia’s writing process involved:
- Interviewing surviving members of the original team and their families
- Balancing historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling
- Working closely with Quintana to ensure the script aligned with the director’s vision
The Art of Authenticity: Recreating 1950s Texas
Bringing the 1950s to life on screen presented unique challenges and opportunities for the production team of The Long Game.
Set Design and Costumes
The film’s art department went to great lengths to ensure every detail felt authentic to the era:
- Wardrobe: Sourced vintage clothing and created custom pieces to fit each character’s personality and social status
- Props: Acquired period-accurate golf clubs, cars, and household items
- Set Dressing: Transformed modern locations into believable 1950s environments
Challenges in Period-Accurate Filming
Recreating the 1950s presented several hurdles:
- Removing modern elements: Careful framing and post-production work were needed to eliminate anachronistic details from shots.
- Weather considerations: Filming in Colombia and Texas presented unpredictable weather patterns that could affect the consistency of scenes.
- Balancing authenticity with modern filmmaking techniques: The team had to find ways to use contemporary equipment without it being visible on screen.
From Script to Screen: The Journey of “The Long Game”
The path from idea to finished film is often long and winding. For The Long Game, this journey was particularly meaningful.
Origins of the Story
The film is based on the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs, a group of Mexican-American caddies who formed their own golf team in 1950s Texas despite facing significant racial discrimination. This inspiring tale caught the attention of producers who saw its potential as a powerful cinematic experience.
Development Process
- Research phase: Extensive interviews with surviving team members and their families
- Script development: Multiple drafts to balance historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling
- Funding: Securing investors who believed in the importance of telling this story
- Pre-production: Location scouting, casting, and assembling the crew
Evolution of Locations and Cast Choices
As the project developed, certain aspects evolved:
- Initially planned for all-Texas shooting: Budget considerations led to the inclusion of Colombian locations
- Cast changes: Some roles were recast as the project progressed to better fit the evolving vision
- Set design adaptations: As locations were finalized, the art department had to adjust their plans to work with the available spaces
Impact and Reception
While The Long Game is yet to be widely released, early indications suggest it will make a significant impact.
Early Reviews and Festival Appearances
- Sundance Film Festival: Positive reception at its premiere
- SXSW: Enthusiastic audience response during a special screening
Cultural Significance
The Long Game tackles several important themes:
- Racial discrimination in sports and society
- The power of community and perseverance
- The often-overlooked contributions of Mexican-Americans to U.S. history
“This film shines a light on a chapter of American history that deserves to be celebrated. It’s not just about golf; it’s about breaking barriers and chasing dreams.” – Jay Hernandez
Behind-the-Scenes Tidbits
Interesting Production Facts
- The young actors underwent intensive golf training for three months before filming began
- Some of the vintage cars used in the film belong to collectors in Smithville and Bastrop
- A local Smithville bakery created 1950s-style baked goods for use as props and to feed the crew
Cast Anecdotes
- Dennis Quaid reportedly challenged the younger cast members to impromptu golf competitions between takes
- Cheech Marin entertained the crew with impromptu stand-up routines during long set-ups
- The young actors formed a tight-knit group off-screen, often exploring the local areas together on days off
The Official Trailer: A Closer Look
The official trailer for The Long Game offers a tantalizing glimpse into the film’s world. Let’s break down some key elements:
- Opening shot: A panoramic view of a lush golf course, likely one of the Colombian locations
- Character introductions: Quick cuts introducing the main cast, highlighting the young actors portraying the San Felipe Mustangs
- Period details: Glimpses of 1950s cars, fashion, and technology, showcasing the production design’s attention to detail
- Emotional moments: Hints at the struggles and triumphs the characters will face, set to stirring music
The trailer has generated significant buzz, with fans praising the authentic feel and the cast’s performances.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About “The Long Game”
Q: When and where can I watch “The Long Game”?
A: The film is set for a wide release on [specific date, 2024]. It will be available in theaters nationwide and on select streaming platforms.
Q: Is “The Long Game” based on a true story?
A: Yes, the film is based on the real-life story of the San Felipe Mustangs, a group of Mexican-American caddies who formed their own golf team in 1950s Texas.
Q: What inspired the film’s title?
A: “The Long Game” refers not only to golf strategy but also to the perseverance and long-term vision required by the San Felipe Mustangs to overcome the obstacles they faced.
Q: How long did filming take?
A: Principal photography lasted approximately 8 weeks, with additional time for second unit shooting and pick-ups.
Q: Are there plans for a sequel or related projects?
A: While there are currently no official plans for a sequel, the filmmakers have expressed interest in exploring more untold stories from this era of American history.
Conclusion: Why “The Long Game” Stands Out
The Long Game is more than just a sports movie. It’s a testament to the human spirit, a celebration of community, and a reminder of the power of perseverance.
By blending authentic filming locations across Colombia and Texas with a talented cast led by Jay Hernandez, Dennis Quaid, and Cheech Marin, director Julio Quintana has created a film that promises to educate, inspire, and entertain.
The attention to detail in recreating 1950s Texas, combined with the heartfelt performances of the cast, brings the story of the San Felipe Mustangs to life in a way that resonates with modern audiences.
As we follow the journey of these young Mexican-American golfers, we’re reminded of the ongoing struggle for equality and the importance of chasing our dreams, no matter the obstacles.
The Long Game is poised to take its place among the great sports dramas of our time, offering a unique perspective on a little-known chapter of American history.
Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves an inspiring underdog story, this film promises to leave a lasting impression.
David Lee is a seasoned writer specializing in filming locations. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for cinema, David explores the stories behind iconic sites and shares unique insights that bring your favorite films and series to life.
