Fastball
Fastball

Movie spotlight

Fastball

2016
Movie
87 min
English

Since 1912, baseball has been a game obsessed with statistics and speed. Thrown at upwards of 100 miles per hour, a fastball moves too quickly for human cognition and accelerates into the realm of intuition. Fastball is a look at how the game at its highest levels of achievement transcends logic and even skill, becoming the primal struggle for man to control the uncontrollable.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic63/100
Google Users92%
Director: Jonathan HockGenres: Documentary, Sport

Plot Summary

This documentary delves into the science, history, and cultural significance of the fastball, the most iconic pitch in baseball. Through interviews with legendary players, cutting-edge scientists, and passionate fans, the film explores the physics behind the pitch, its evolution over time, and its enduring impact on the game. It examines what makes a great fastball pitcher and the art and mystery behind throwing a baseball at incredible speeds.

Critical Reception

Fastball was generally well-received by critics and audiences, particularly for its engaging exploration of baseball's most fundamental and exciting pitch. Reviewers praised its blend of historical anecdotes, scientific explanations, and interviews with baseball legends. The film successfully captured the essence of what makes the fastball so captivating to fans and players alike.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its insightful exploration of baseball's iconic pitch.

  • Features excellent interviews with baseball legends.

  • Successfully blends science, history, and passion for the game.

Google audience: Google users overwhelmingly loved Fastball, appreciating its in-depth look at the fastball pitch and the insights provided by famous baseball players. Many found it to be an informative and entertaining watch that deepened their appreciation for the sport.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Documentary Screenplay at the 2017 Writers Guild of America Awards.

Fun Fact

The documentary features interviews with a wide range of baseball greats, from historical figures like Babe Ruth (through archival footage and commentary) to modern stars like Derek Jeter and Albert Pujols, highlighting the enduring mystique of the fastball across different eras of the game.

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