The Long Game (film)

The Long Game is a 2023 American historical drama film adaptation of Humberto G. Garcia's 2010 book Mustang Miracle. The film is directed by Julio Quintana and stars Jay Hernandez, Julian Works, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Brett Cullen, Oscar Nuñez, Paulina Chávez, Gregory Diaz IV, José Julián, Cheech Marin, and Dennis Quaid. The film was released theatrically in the United States by Mucho Mas Media on April 12, 2024.

Premise
The film tells the true story of the San Felipe Mustangs, a group of Mexican-American youths located in Del Rio, Texas. In the 1950s, the group set out to play golf at a white country club in town. Despite prejudice, the Mustangs overcame these obstacles to become the 1957 Texas state champions.

Production
In June 2022, it was announced that Jay Hernandez, Jaina Lee Ortiz, Dennis Quaid and Julian Works would star in the film.

Release
The Long Game premiered at South by Southwest on March 12, 2023. It was theatrically released by Mucho Mas Media on April 12, 2024. The movie made its streaming debut on Netflix in the United States on July 12, 2024.

Reception
Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com gave the film a positive review and wrote that it "transcends its clichés by being true to its characters and artistic in its approach." Sheri Linden of The Hollywood Reporter also gave the film a positive review and wrote, "Could have used more topspin, but a winning round nonetheless." Therese Lacson of Collider graded the film a C and wrote, "The Long Game isn't awful, it's perfectly serviceable as a sports flick about an inspiring all-American team, but that's all that it is: it's fine. There's little to write home about and it feels like a case of unfulfilled potential."