Great baseball film

Rating: 8/10 (18 April 2002)

Many of my friends have heard me say "I don't do sports movies." So why did I go to The Rookie? I gotta admit that Dennis Quaid brought me: I can't resist his engaging grin. But that isn't why I'm writing a review. I went expecting a charming movie and got a lot more. Yes, it's charming. But there are many layers: father-son relationships, husband-wife relationships, how people inspire and support each other, and seeking your dreams. Few of us are lucky enough to know what our dreams are, let alone see them come true. And here's a true story of someone that lucky. The characters are not one-dimensional, and the acting is fine and often subtle by both leads and supporting cast. One of my favorite moments is when the wife says "go for it," and you see the dream fill Dennis Quaid's eyes, and you know the right decision was made. The film moves in loving slowness, letting us get to know the characters and to understand Jim Morris' love of baseball. My friend, as we were watching the credits said, "for a film with not an unhappy moment in it, I sure cried a lot." So bring some kleenex if you're susceptible to tears of love and joy. If you liked The Natural or Field of Dreams, you should check this flick out. Did I say I didn't do sports movies? I guess I'll have to revise that and say "except for good baseball."