An informative look at someone's life and the desire to achieve one's goals

Rating: 8/10 (10 September 2002)

The first time I saw "The Rookie" I thought it was too much about the man's life and not enough about baseball. I completely missed the point. The next time I saw the movie, it dawned on me that it is Jim Morris' life that makes the story of a 35 year old high school teacher turned MLB rookie so fascinating. Every emotion in the movie feels so real. The casting is perfect. Dennis Quaid plays Jim Morris accurately, giving off a real sense of concern for his family as he struggles to achieve his dream. My favorite part of the movie is the cinematography and the score. Every scene is shot masterfully, with pleasing backgrounds and solid focus on the action in the foreground. The score is also impressive. The music fits the story perfectly. I don't know how I could appreciate "The Rookie" any more than I already do now.