Review of Bull Durham (1988) by Patrick M — 23 Feb 2009
My 88th favorite movie of all time.
Occasionally you see a sports movie where you either feel that the actors in it have never played the sport or that the writers have never played the sport. Neither of these are the case with 1988's Bull Durham, a romantic comedy about minor league baseball.
What really jumps out at you in this movie is its knowledge of Minor League Baseball. It seems so genuine, from the stupid traditions like hit the bull and win a steak, to the quirky little superstitions of guys who know they'll never make it to the Majors, or "The Show", as it is referred to in this.
Kevin Costner plays Durham Bulls catcher "Crash" Davis. His performance on the field is great. He really looks like he knows how to play. His performance off the field is quite pedestrian. He delivers some great dialogue, especially a particular monologue, but he doesn't deliver the lines that well in my opinion.
Next to him is Tim Robbins, who plays a complete idiot of an MLB-destined pitcher, and he does quite well. He is very funny, especially playing along with Costner, who is the veteran who has to show him the ropes.
In between the two is Susan Sarandon, who marvelously plays a woman who must choose to sleep with one of the stars of the Durham Bulls, as she has done so for many seasons. Who she chooses between Costner and Robbins is at the heart of the movie, as is Robbins's pursuit of the Major Leagues, and Costner's pursuit of the Minor League record for home runs.
It's a good baseball movie and also a good romantic comedy.
This review of Bull Durham (1988) was written by Patrick M on 23 Feb 2009.
Bull Durham has generally received very positive reviews.
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