Giving it Stick

Shinty’s ancient origins date as far back as the 5th century, when it was believed to be the traditional battle game of the Highlands clans. By the 18th century, it had become Scotland’s most popular game and can lay claim to giving birth to golf, ice hockey, and even the development of football, which borrowed set positions such as defender, midfielder and forward from the game. Today, however, shinty is underfunded and largely ignored outside the Highlands, but it remains strong in the small communities where it began centuries ago.

Directed by Greg Clark, Giving it Stick leans on a strong ensemble — Jane McCarry — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2023.