How I Play Golf, by Bobby Jones No. 4: 'The Mashie Niblick'

Bobby Jones instructs Leon Erroll in the use of the mashie niblick, if that's your idea of a good time.

A little online research shows that the mashie niblick is the equivalent of the modern five iron, and the primary use is to get past tall obstacles, like trees and Stephen Merchant. Which doesn't tell you much about this instructional short.

How I Play Golf, by Bobby Jones #4: The Mashie Niblick (1931)

** 1/2 (out of 4)

Bobby Jones finds himself playing with partner Leon Errol who gets them behind from his first shot. Errol is using the wrong club trying to get his ball over some trees and this is when Jones breaks in and explains why it's best to use the mashie niblick. This fourth episode is a minor step up from the previous one thanks in large part to the performance from Errol who is perfect as the pest. I think anyone who has played golf or any sport will be able to connect with Errol because I'm sure we've all got friends who we've taken to do something and they do nothing but get in the way. While the routine doesn't get any major laughs, it's good enough to keep the film moving. As usual, the main goal is to teach people who to play golf better so I think this film is mainly going to appeal to golf buffs wanting to hear what Jones has to say about these shots.