firepants

If you're a baseball fan, this is a must see. Billy Heywood is a 12 year old baseball nut that inherits the Minnesota Twins when his grandfather dies. After firing the manager, Billy appoints himself as the new bench boss of the Twins. Sounds completely implausible,0 I know. I avoiding watching this for years because of the train wreck known as Rookie of the Year. They have nothing in common.

The writing in this movie is superb. Not only does the script manage to capture what it was like to be a 12 year old, but there was clearly an intelligent baseball fan responsible for much of the movie's dialogue. It's so nice to watch a baseball movie that assumes I might actually understand baseball strategy and appreciate the game's history.

However, what truly sets this movie apart are the baseball scenes. Clearly, the extras are (or were) professional baseball players. Even those with speaking parts can all play (or fake it well enough). There's also numerous cameos from a slew of major league baseball players (circa 1994).

Terrific supporting performances by Jonathan Silverman, Jason Robards, Timonth Busfield and the two kids who play Billy's best friends. The actor who plays Billy (Luke Edwards) could have been a bit more polished, but maybe that added to the charm. Well worth your time.

This is perhaps the most honest, humorous and insightful movie ever made about 20-something men and relationships. In spite of a low profile during it's cinematic run, Swingers has reached the status of cult classic, and deservedly so. The story centers on a fledgling actor - portrayed flawlessly by John Favreau - who is still trying to cope with the pain of a not-so-recent breakup. Vince Vaughn is outstanding as the best friend determined to build his confidence and get him back in the game. But perhaps the most enduring part of this movie are the phrases that will forever be in the lexicon of all who have had the pleasure of watching this wonderfully scripted film ("You're so money baby, and you don't even know it!). Even the soundtrack was superior - so much so that it warranted a second album of music from and inspired by the movie. Favreau, who also wrote and produced, has firmly established himself as a capable film maker.

While generally regarded as the weakest of the Farrelly brothers movies to date, which also include Dumb & Dumber, Something About Mary, and Me, Myself & Irene, this movie is far better than it's lack of critical acclaim would lead one to believe.

For the most part, this movie has been written off because the story is extraodinarily dark for a comedy. Additionally, much of the humor, at least superficially, appeals to the lowest common denominator. But this movie also strikes a chord on a much deeper level. The story, while sophomoric at times, is also thoughtful and intelligent.

Woody Harrelson continues to show his versatility, this time playing a slightly dim witted ex-bowler, who takes on a naive Amish protege played ably by Randy Quaid. Billy Murray absolutely steals this movie playing the conniving, egocentric Big Ernie McCracken.