The Rookie (Widescreen Edition)

The Rookie (Widescreen Edition)
by John Lee Hancock

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DVD Reviews of The Rookie (Widescreen Edition)

DVD Review: Works on all Levels. The Makings of a Classic.
Summary: 5 Stars

The story itself could have turned into a cliche riddled piece of "movie of the week" tripe, but there are things that keep it from such. First, of course, is all the fine acting. Second is the fact that it's almost as if there's two stories going on. The first with Jim coaching his kids, then him going for his dreams. You can tell this film is a labor of love from all involved. It shows on screen. The people making this movie truly cared for the story. One of the best things about this movie is that it works more than just a baseball movie. It's a great character piece, about following dreams and the love of family. Sounds corny, I know, but when pulled off right, it's the stuff of coolness. I believe that even if you don't like baseball that much, you'll find something here that's up your alley. John Lee Hancock's direction flows in a nice, Texas like pace. It's not in your face, it simply lets the story unfold, and I appreciate Hancock for doing this. He's showed restraint when many filmmakers of today would edit this baby to bits, so kudos to him. You've made this Texas boy proud.

If you want other reasons this is a truly wonderful movie, simply start up the commentary with John Lee Hancock and Dennis Quaid. They point out several moments that make this movie special. You can tell they're real proud of their work. Dennis goes as far as to say that it's his favorite movie he's ever been in, so that has to tell you something. Some other good comments on what went on with the hows and whys of making the movie.

There's seven deleted scenes that are of good enough quality that they could have been in the movie itself. But, as director Hancock points out, the main reason most of them were taken out was due to time restraints. So, it's nice to see them on the disc for all to enjoy.

A neat little Spring Training feature gives you some usefull tips on playing the game of baseball. This is great for people like me, who haven't the slightest idea of how to play the sport properly. Whenever I play it (with friends), it's a simple matter of swinging at the pitches. This has some interesting techniques and tips for the ignorant.

Last, and certainly not least, is a 20 minute documentary on the man himself, Jim Morris. It features interviews with him, the cast, some of his family and kids he coached. A fairly inspiring feature in it's own right, you finish watching it totally understanding why one would want to make a movie on his life. Plus, it gives us info the movie didn't really, such as the fact that Morris wasn't such a bad football player, either.

All in all, I do believe this movie will go down as a classic when all is said and done. It has all the makings of one, and it's one I enjoy more each time I watch it. It will truly make you want to chase your dreams.

Description of The Rookie (Widescreen Edition)