The Tale of Texas Pool is a riveting sports movie that immerses audiences in the vibrant history of billiards and its deep-rooted connection to Texas. From its humble origins as a colonial pastime in Mexico to its evolution into a cultural phenomenon within the Lone Star State, this film traces the trajectory of pool alongside Texas’ own tumultuous journey through history.
The highly anticipated film will be the directorial debut of Kevin Welling of Austin, Texas. Unlike announcements of other upcoming cinematic works with this kind of intrigue, the director in this case did not study film while in school, like his counterparts. In fact, Welling’s studies were far from film school. Instead, he spent his time over in a lab learning computer science at The University of Texas and later business at Cornell University. “Yes, my ‘experience’ with making movies comes solely from editing together family photos and footage for shorts I made for both my parent’s funerals. The overwhelming positive responses to those efforts drove me to follow my passion”, Welling said. “My love for movies will be more than evident when watching this film. I have a great story to use as my first offering to the world. Who doesn’t love stories about pool hustlers, gambling and a sports comeback? Pool hustlers, by nature, must be charismatic to get more games and action. This movie is loaded from front to back with characters so charming you can’t take your eyes of the screen. Viewers will laugh, cry, clap with joy and be left wanting more of their stories.”
The movie delves into the vibrant culture surrounding billiards, where charm and hustle are as vital as skill. Tales of high stakes gambling weave through the narrative, showcasing the audacious wagers and larger-than-life antics that have colored the game’s history. From coin flips to pool games on roller skates, these anecdotes underscore the sport’s irresistible allure and the personalities drawn to its magnetic pull.
At the heart of the narrative lies the prestigious Texas Open 9-ball Championships, a storied event spanning over half a century. Through captivating interviews with seasoned players and archival footage, the movie paints a vivid picture of the tournament’s inception. Some of the all-time pool greats are heard from to tell the tale- Buddy Hall, Jeremy Jones, Nick Varner, Sky Woodward, Fedor Gorst, Tyler Styer, and more. Old-timers and hustlers reminisce about the colorful characters who defined the early years: the flamboyant “Showboat” Joe, the enigmatic “Jersey” Red, and the irrepressible “Bastrop,” each leaving an indelible mark on the sport and its lore.
Delving deeper, The Tale of Texas Pool explores the lives and careers of charismatic champions who elevated the Texas Open to legendary status. Among them, Bob Vanover emerges as a towering figure, the record-holder whose unmatched prowess inspired the creation of the Texas Billiards Hall of Fame. The film chronicles the Hall’s inception, honoring Vanover and other luminaries whose contributions continue to resonate in the world of billiards.’
Yet amid the glamour and spectacle, The Tale of Texas Pool finds its emotional core in the poignant story of James Ray Davis, Jr., a scion of Texas’ esteemed pool lineage. His journey embodies the resilience and redemption found in the world of billiards, navigating personal tragedy with the unwavering spirit instilled by the game. Davis’s tale unfolds as a testament to the profound impact of pool on individual lives, transcending mere competition to embody a philosophy of perseverance and triumph.
Through masterful storytelling and evocative visuals, The Tale of Texas Pool celebrates the enduring legacy of billiards in shaping Texas’ cultural fabric. It captures the essence of sport as a microcosm of life’s trials and triumphs, honoring the players who have etched their names into history while reflecting on the profound influence of this timeless game. As much a tribute to Texas as it is to billiards, this movie promises to captivate and inspire audiences with its blend of history, passion, and human drama.
The Tale of Texas Pool is in post-production and will hit most video on demand streaming services on Christmas of 2024.
