The National Pastime
Baseball is a sport that’s meant to be savored. It’s a game that requires patience and an attentive eye, and often, it’s about more than just winning a game or making it to the World Series.
Movies about baseball are a dime a dozen, but they are surprisingly few and far between that actually explore the game at its most primal level. That’s why these 14 baseball movies are such a treat, whether you’re an expert fan or just someone looking to relax and enjoy a good flick.
Bull Durham
One of the most underrated baseball movies of all time, Bull Durham is a must-watch for its realistic depiction of a minor league baseball team and their romances. The film doesn’t just tell the story of a man (Kevin Costner) who has the potential to be the greatest player ever, it’s also about how his love for the game affects everything else in his life.
61*
A must-see for fans of the sport, Billy Crystal’s 61* is a fascinating saga of Roger Maris’ 1961 attempt to break Babe Ruth’s home run record. It’s also a great look at the weight of fame and modern athletic expectations.
Angels in the Outfield
Another classic baseball movie, Angels in the Outfield is a story of a harsh manager (William H. Matthau) who is aided by the divine to find new hope in his bleak season. The film is a bit slow and the quotable quotes are a bit cliché, but it’s still a fun watch.