For Love Of The Game Is Batting 750 In My Book

Rating: 7/10 (17 September 1999)

Kevin Costner's natural ability on a baseball diamond brings realism to For Love Of The Game, the story of an aging pitcher for the Tigers who suffers from a sore arm, the thought of being traded, and a rocky love relationship that is on again, off again at best.This is a love story first folks and a baseball story added in throughout the film. Early on, there are moments that are overly dramtic and downright soupy at times but if you can get through the first hour, you will be rewarded with some touching scenes. The supporting cast of Jena Malone Kelly Preston and John C. Reilly are totally believable in their respect roles which saves the movie from being dropped into a below average status, in my opinion. Vince Scully, the voice currently of the L.A. Dodgers, adds drama throughout the movie as the play by play announcer. Cinematography and editing are outstanding and give us the feeling of actually being on the field at Yankee Stadium. If you like a serious love story you will really enjoy this effort. If you love baseball, that would be an added bonus.