Review of The Sandlot (1993) by Chrissy S — 16 Apr 2011

As someone who is over 40, I would not think that a film aimed at 10 year olds could be so moving - but it was. The Sandlot did what hundreds of other movies failed to do no matter what age group the demographic: it transported viewers to that one period in time when the three months of summer vacation were perfect and seemed to last forever. Come on, everyone had one summer like that and The Sandlot captures that feeling perfectly.

The story follows Scotty Smalls(Tom Guiry), who is shy, has just moved to a new town, and worst of all - he doesn't know how to play baseball. Scotty also has a new stepfather (Denis Leary) that he cannot make a connection with. Luckily, Scotty gets involved with a group of baseball fanatics from his class who play ball every day in the sandlot behind his house. There Scotty finds himself and his confidence, makes a connection with his stepfather, and even discovers his future life's passion.

The main cast is seven young kids, some even with acting chops beyond their years. Combine this with a supporting role by the rarely seen Karen Allen and cameo by James Earl Jones, The Sandlot is a refreshing adventure for ages young and old.