Many critics will raise a stink over this issue, but I’m not one of them - and I don’t think general audiences will mind either.
It’s nice to see how the Christian themes - especially the importance of faith and devotion to God - are nicely woven into the story without it sounding preachy or as if there’s an agenda attached.ĭirected by William Dear (1994’s Angels in the Outfield remake), this film is your classic underdog sports story, filled with several unavoidable clichés that are common in this genre. Fortunately, an African American minister (John Cothran Jr.) steps in to assist. When Padre Esteban is unable to attend a series game, the boys refuse to play until someone blesses them. The boys are devoted to their faith and understand that anything is possible with God. In addition to the focus on discrimination, faith plays a very important role in the film. They fill the screen with humor, joy, and sincerity. ( An Officer and a Gentleman) and Frances Fisher ( Titanic) make excellent cameos, as well.
Cheech Marin is terrific as Padre Esteban, while Clifton Collins Jr. The cast is really what makes this film work. But quickly I realized the film would’ve alienated its younger audiences if it had taken that route. Thinking as an adult moviegoer (my default setting), I initially thought it would be interesting to explore these elements in more detail. These issues are simply displayed and not explored in depth. Throughout the film, the boys struggle against discrimination due to their economic situation, their race, and their faith. Other supporting characters include Maria (Patricia Manterola), the coach’s love interest, and Frankie (Emilie de Ravin from ABC’s Lost), a sassy newspaper reporter who documents the boys’ journey. Cesar Faz (Clifton Collins Jr.) coaches the new team, but struggles to overcome his failed attempt as a baseball prospect in America due to racism. Padre Esteban (Cheech Marin), the local Catholic priest, mentors the boys, fuels their baseball dreams, and guides their faith in God. William Winokur (who also wrote the script), The Perfect Game recounts the true story of a scrappy group of boys in Monterrey, Mexico, who end up competing in the 1957 Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. I was pleasantly surprised by this little gem.īased on the book of the same name by W. There seemed to be very little marketing behind it, which is truly a shame.
I’m sure very few people have heard of this film.
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