Written by Leah, staff member, Keshen Goodman Public Library
September is National Little League Month, so join us as we root, root, root for the home team with eight of our favourite baseball movies, because it’s one, two, three strikes you’re out at the old ball game. Borrow these movies on DVD or Blu-Ray today, and play ball!
1. The Sandlot (1993)
With its endlessly quotable dialogue (“you’re killing me, Smalls!”), portrayal of boundless summer fun, and adventures galore, we’re pretty sure that every ‘90s kid dreamt of playing baseball with Squints, Benny, and Smalls. Scotty Smalls is the new kid in town and he quickly finds himself learning to play baseball, meeting new friends and getting into the biggest pickle of his life.
2. A League of Their Own (1992)
“There’s no crying in baseball” has become a line uttered in countless movies, television shows, and pickup games at the local infield, all thanks to the Tom Hanks and Geena Davis classic, A League of Their Own. When the men are sent off to war, baseball owners come up with the idea of an all-women’s baseball league. Although, the Rockford Peaches were a fictional team, this movie is based on the true story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, that ran from 1943-1954.
3. Field of Dreams (1989)
When Iowa farmer, Ray Kinsella, starts hearing voices suggesting that he build a baseball field in his cornfield, little does he know that he isn’t building an ordinary ball diamond, but one where dreams come true. While baseball dominates this beloved film, it is ultimately a story of family relationships, reconciliation, and following one’s dreams, even when they might not make sense.
4. Moneyball (2011)
Who would have guessed that a film about baseball and statistics would be a box office hit, win critical acclaim, and be nominated for multiple awards? Based on the true story of the Oakland Athletics’ 2002 season, Brad Pitt and Jonah Hill star in this multi-Academy Award nominated film about one team trying to play the odds and compete against much wealthier clubs. Excellent acting, a smart screenplay, and an intriguing story have propelled this story into the baseball movie hall of fame. Finished the movie? Read the book by Michael Lewis and see what Hollywood left out.
5. Bull Durham (1988)
When two baseball players, one a veteran catcher and the rookie pitcher he is mentoring, fall for the same woman, all bets are off. Ranked by Sports Illustrated as the best sports movie of all time, this ode to minor league baseball is a perfect film for first time viewers and returning fans alike.
6. Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns (1994)
Using archival photographs and film footage, this miniseries explores the intertwined nature of American history and baseball, and is an excellent watch for anyone looking to understand a little more about baseball and its impact on the United States.
7. 42 (2013)
In 1946, Jackie Robinson became the first Black baseball player signed to a Major League Baseball team. 42, his number with the Brooklyn Dodgers, explores the tremendous courage Robinson demonstrated as he faced racism from all sides, and the innate talent he displayed on the field.
8. The Rookie (2002)
What would you do if you were given a chance to live your dream? At an age when most professional baseball players are looking at retirement, Jim Morris, who threw a 98 mph fastball, tried out for the Major Leagues. Based on a true story, The Rookie is a heartwarming story of throwing caution to the wind and following your dreams.
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