A major classic in the realm of sports films, very funny and very inspiring

Rating: 9/10 (6 April 2007)

Jake (Tom Berenger) has just been signed by the Cleveland Indians again. Having spent his most recent years in the Mexican league, he is happy to be in the SHOW once more. However, he learns quickly enough about the new owner's strategy. It seems this lady has deliberately assembled a team to LOSE, knocking attendance down so low that she can move the team to Miami Beach. How charming. Rookies Willie Mays Hays (Wesley Snipes) and Wild Thing (Charlie Sheen) are unhappy about their situations as well. But, what if they can rise to the occasion and become a winning team? After all, the team also sports a powerhitting, voodoo-believing clean up man, a born again pitcher, and a go-for-broke manager. And, if Jake can convince his ex-wife (Rene Russo) to take a chance again on him and the team, miracles can happen, can't they? This is an all star baseball movie, in every way, but is so humor-laden that any non-sports enthusiast will enjoy it very much, too. As the supposed rejects, Berenger, Snipes, Sheen, Corbin Bernsen, Bob Uecker, and the rest of the acting crew delight the audience at all times. The awesome script is brimming with humor, wackiness, and inspiration. As for the costumes, sets, and production values, they are top of the line. The final moments of the film, told in slow motion, are guaranteed to bring some lumps to anyone's throat. If you love baseball, you MUST, MUST see this film. But if you just want to laugh, cry, cheer, and feel good about life, this winning movie is for you, too. Catch it today, without delay.