Golf’s Grand Design

August 20, 2012 4 Min Read

Disc Scores

VIDEO 3.5 / 5
AUDIO 3.0 / 5
OVERALL 3.5 / 5

Review by: Fusion3600

Plot: What’s it about?

Golf is a sport that bores some to tears and inspires others to dedicate countless hours on the greens. In Golf’s Grand Design, we’re taken inside the process of how the courses are designed and executed, to learn more about what draws in so many players from all over the world. The programs examine over on hundred years of golf course architecture, with interviews from prominent golf course designers and golf historians. Golf has a unique advantage over other sports, as no two playing fields are alike, each has their own signature and one of a kind elements. So each stop on a tour is a whole new experience, while courses also evolve over the years, adding new challenges. But what makes one course more popular than another, and how does a hole go from a concept to the finished product? In Golf’s Grand Design, these topics and countless more are explored, as the curtain is pulled back on how the best golf courses in the world were created.

I have to admit, I am not a golf person. But since this was more about the design process than just the sport itself, I was interested to watch Golf’s Great Design. There is still a lot of golf talk of course, so it would help have an interest in the sport, but even if not, this is a solid watch. As someone with limited golf knowledge, it was nice to learn about why certain design elements are common and others not so much. I think golf fans will appreciate finding out about some of the more popular courses and the stories behind the design choices involved. The interviews are very informative, with all those involved being experts in the field and varied perspectives offered up. In the end, of course those who appreciate golf will get the most out of this one, but anyone with an interest in design can appreciate Golf’s Grand Design as well. So if you happen to appreciate golf, design, or both, then Golf’s Grand Design is worth checking out.

Video: How does it look?

Golf’s Grand Design is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. This program looks great here, with a clean and crisp visual presentation. The image shows good detail and I didn’t pick up on any errors to report. The colors are natural and contrast is spot on, so no concerns in those areas. So while the program isn’t a visual feast, it looks quite good here and viewers should appreciate the solid presentation.

Audio: How does it sound?

The soundtrack here is basic, but effective. The program is focused on dialogue and little else, so there isn’t need for much beyond a simple audio design. The interviews sound crystal clear, so no dialogue is lost and no volume issues crop up. The other elements are minimal, given the program’s vocal driven soundtrack. So it might not stand out as memorable, this soundtrack gets the job done. This disc also includes English subtitles.

Supplements: What are the extras?

This disc includes no bonus materials.