Costner comes out on top

Rating: Null/10 (8 April 2004)

"For Love Of The Game" is an endearing look at a baseball player who might be pitching his last game after 19 years with the same team.

After successful films such as "Bull Durham" and "Field Of Dreams" baseball seems to follow Kevin Costner as he returns to the diamond once again in "For Love Of The Game."
I enjoyed this film immensely not only because Costner is one my favorite actors, but because he brings his fiery attitude to his character Billy Chapel. Costner is known for this as he brings it to every film he has been in.
Sam Raimi brings a fresh attitude and look to the silver screen as the director of this movie. Raimi did a brilliant job unveiling the sequences as he did as the plot surrounded one game with flashbacks to Billy's on again, off again romance with Jane, played by the beautiful Kelly Preston.
In addition, John C. Reilly who played Gus Sinski was a pleasant addition and surprise as he brought an excellent balance of calm and support to Billy.
The best thing about "For Love of The Game" were the ensemble performances given by Costner, Reilly and Preston. These performances personified the very best of a heartwarming and endearing film with so many layers of depth to the characters and storyline.
The only complaint I may have about this film would be the length; I think some scenes could have been edited out or cut down a little because the film shouldn't have lasted as long as it did.
It was an excellent film for what it was, a sweet, lighted hearted romantic drama.