Phil Mickelson - Secrets of the Short Game (2009)

Arnold Palmer has one. Jack Nicklaus has one. And now, Phil Mickelson has one. No, we're not talking about the Masters championships (although Mickelson has three of those), but a golf instruction video. Emmy-winner Terry Jastrow, who produced Palmer's and Nicklaus' own bestselling videos, brings his keen eye to this master class that concentrates on what Mickelson calls "the most important part of the game" (half of all shots played take place inside 50 yards, he states). Over the course of this nearly two-hour program, Mickelson demonstrates putting, chipping using his advocated "hinge and hold" method, bunker play, and his signature "flop shot."  In an entertaining segment, he also demonstrates two specialty shots, a "Two Balls in Bunker" shot (don't try this at home) and the "Backward Over-the-Head" shot. The demonstrations are repeated in slow-motion and seen from a variety of angles. This program is for the serious golfer, but beginners need not  feel too intimidated. Mickelson is a natural in front of the camera and is able to impart a lot of information in a relaxed style that makes even the most advanced concepts accessible. As one golf commentator exults during one of the dramatic highlights clips included as a bonus feature, this is as good as it gets.  --Donald Liebenson 
      
         
       
       Phil Mickelson, winner of 34 PGA Tour events, teams with Emmy Award-winning producer-director Terry Jastrow for Secrets of the Short Game, a two-disc DVD focusing on all shots played from 50 yards. "The goal here," says Mickelson, "is to help golfers build a foundation so that their practice time directly correlates to improved scoring on the golf course." The DVD set includes sections on putting, chipping, sand shots, and the flop shot Mickelson popularized soon after he joined the PGA Tour in 1992. Two discs focusing on the short game of golf: Features interactive menus and scene selection. Running Time: 105 minutes.