The Bottom Line
I was surprised how much this film about a Texas high school baseball coach moved me. Although schmaltzy at times, this was one of the best family-oriented movies I’ve seen in many years.
Pros
- Dennis Quaid gives a strong performance
- Movie takes time in developing story & character
- Location shooting and good cinematography
Cons
- Combines many familiar sports movie plot elements
- Last few minutes are a little too schmaltzy
- Too much of a feel-good movie for some tastes
Description
- DVD containing baseball movie “The Rookie” starring Dennis Quaid
- Based on real-life story of pitcher Jim Morris
- DVD contains commentary track and other extras
Guide Review - “The Rookie” DVD
I was surprised how much this film moved me. It’s a simple story about Jim Morris (Quaid), a high school baseball coach in a small West Texas town. Now thirty-something, happily married, and the father of three, Jim has long since given up his dream of pitching in the major leagues. But kids on Jim's high school team strike a deal with him: if they make it to the state playoffs, he must again try out for professional baseball. I really liked the way the movie took its time in developing story and character, and Quaid was terrific in the leading role. This was one of the best family-oriented movies I’ve seen in a long time.
