For any fan of baseball, these films are a must-watch. Beyond the action of the game itself, these films deliver nostalgia, history, determination, heart, and more that speak to why baseball is called “America’s favorite pastime.”
10. Moneyball (2011)
Based on the Oakland A’s, Peter Brand and Billy Beane radically used statistical analysis to build a winning baseball team on a shoestring budget. The method they developed is still being widely used today. It’s gripping and filled with witty dialogue. It stars Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman, and Robin Wright. The film was nominated for six Oscars.
9. The Rookie (2002)
This film, based on a true story, follows high school baseball coach Jim Morrison. He makes an improbable return to professional baseball at the age of 35. The Rookie speaks to the dreamer in all of us with its message of determination, belief in oneself, overcoming the odds, and second chances. It stars Dennis Quaid, Rachel Griffiths, and Jay Hernandez.
8. 42 (2013)
This film tells the story of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in major league baseball. While not 100% historically accurate, it nonetheless highlights the major challenges and intense moments Robinson endured in becoming the first African-American player in the MLB modern era. The late Chadwick Boseman delivers a moving performance, along with T. R. Knight and Harrison Ford.
7. A League Of Their Own (1992)
During World War II, with many men drafted, women filled the vacated jobs — including on the baseball field. This movie tells the true tale of female players drafted into the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). It’s filled with comic moments as well as intersecting subplots exploring sisterhood, death, and competition. It stars Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, and Madonna.
6. The Bad News Bears (1976)
A kid-hating former minor league player (Walter Matthau), who’s now a lazy drunk, takes on a Little League coaching gig for extra cash. The team, the Bears, is loaded with misfits that have one trait in common: No baseball talent. It’s a distinct take on the typical underdog story, filled with memorable characters, offbeat humor, and a heartwarming message.
5. The Natural (1984)
Mixing nostalgia, magic, and mystery, it’s set in the 1930s and focuses on a mysterious baseball player who emerges seemingly out of nowhere. He helps a struggling team achieve victories that were beyond their reach before. It’s slow but moving. It was nominated for four Oscars. It stars Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, Glenn Close, Kim Basinger, and more
4. Bull Durham (1988)
An aging minor league catcher named Crash is tasked with helping a young, rising star pitcher deal with maturity issues. Simultaneously, a love triangle unfolds between the pitcher, Crash, and Ann, a baseball groupie. It’s unsuitable for young children due to its adult-driven themes, but adults will love the quotes. It stars Kevin Costner, Susan Sarandon, and Tim Robbins.
3. Major League (1989)
In this fictionalized tale of the Cleveland Indians, a former Vegas showgirl inherits the team from her deceased husband. The film is hilarious, but there’s also some seriousness that focuses on the power of dedication and teamwork. The misfit players struggle to defy the odds and reverse their losing streak. It stars Tom Berenger, Charlie Sheen, and Corbin Bernsen.
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2. The Sandlot (1993)
This coming-of-age story set in the summer of 1962 focuses on newcomer Scott Smalls, who gets involved in playing baseball with the neighborhood kids. The film captures the love, lore, and legends of baseball. There’s also lots of adventure off the field. Little Leaguers will love it, and it’s also filled with sentiment and nostalgia that adults will enjoy.
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1. Field of Dreams (1989)
Field Of Dreams is a fantasy tale that blends baseball history with American nostalgia. It’s also about the bond between a father and son. An Iowa corn farmer hears voices telling him: “If you build it, he will come.” It was nominated for a best picture Oscar. The film stars Kevin Costner, Ray Liotta, and James Earl Jones.
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