Hardball [DVD] [2001] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]

OK, so I'll start off by saying that I like Keanu Reeves and get that out of the way. Like most actors (although he seems to be the critics' favourite whipping boy even now) he has done his fair share of stinkers when it comes to movies. This isn't one of them. He is very believable as Connor O'Neill as the desperate gambler trying not to get killed by those he owes - a LOT - of money to. So, he takes the gig as coach of the baseball team in return for $500 a week so that he won't be killed in some unpleasant way because he can't pay a debt. The kids are hilarious and terrifying in equal measure. If I had sworn like that my mother would literally have washed my mouth out with soap! It is a quiet movie about redemption and becoming a better person. Personally I love it. It's gritty in many ways, but also has moments of humour which are mostly supplied by the kids. However, Keanu and his friend in the bar doing Big Pappa was hilarious. It's a good job it was a rap and not an actual song because, bless him, Keanu's singing is not something the world should have to endure! I have watched this film several times and enjoyed it every time. So definitely money well spent for me.

It would be too easy to write a pun filled review as this movie touches a lot of bases, with this basball based drama.It was a number of years ago I first came across this movie, got blown away by Keanu and seeing him in a non stoner role, never got round to viewing his Matrix movies, but find him very watchable,;Speed, Point Break etcThis movie has Keanu as a gambling addict , in too deep , battling his demons and fleeing various loan sharks, struggling to make ends meet.His only means of income, stems on his agreement to train a group of back street kids from an under privaliiged background .The usual bunch of sassy, quiet, overweight , weak, small and gang runners who are in the same team but have no grasp of teamwork or how to really play.The key is how the story unfolds,;the strength of characters, the interaction and how the trust is built.This movie draws you in, has you by the heartstrings hoping for the 2 underdogs in the movie to come good.It has a twist and I'd advise to have tissues on hand, I have watched this a good few times and its Niagra falls every time.Thanks

A reluctant debtor Reeves is induced to coach a Little League baseball team for help but does not take it seriously until he realizes how important it is to the housing project kids and the risk they take in the neighbourhood of Chicago just to get and return to practice.As he bonds with the kids he gets them new kits which makes a difference to their performance and attitude.Does he stay on for the next season?

The obnoxious insolence from the fatherless and undisciplined children imho is a sad reflection of not just society almost two decades ago, but still persists to the present. Uncivil and contemptous tone of the "mothers" is overlooked but not by the viewing audience.Another movie that glorifies obscenities from the mouths of "babes", no wonder young black children and teens are engaging in infanticide daily in the U.S and U.K. Tommy Sotomayor is write !

Ive seen lots of movies protray the hardships that black people have to face living in perrilous environments, this one I felt more than watched. it got under my skin, which is white. I think its the first time I really felt it. Its also a really beautiful film about the power of commitment and connection. I absolutely loved it. The kids are amazing and Keanu is awesome :)

Very happy with product

ok

If you're into sports film this is a must watch.