Extra Innings

There's an axiom in entertainment always to leave the audience wanting more. When Extra Innings ended I hungered for more. After all, the characters worked through the tough stuff. The movie's ending showed me that good things were imminent so I need not see more.

Some reviewers called this a baseball move. I disagree. This is a story about one person's walk through mental illness and how he endured. Baseball was the Universe's gift to the main character so he could have an outlet in a dysfunctional environment. The skills he learned developing his talent for baseball, no doubt gave him the foundation and confidence to develop other talents later. We know this because the author, on whose life Extra Innings is based, did not become a professional baseball player, but still was successful in his chosen career paths. Plus the author opened the door for others to share their stories of loss and illness that will help bring them healing and catharsis.

You did a good job, Mr. Dabah. Keep telling your story. Keep encouraging others to tell theirs. The truth sets us all free.

What a beautifully poignant film.

The movie touches on such important universal themes, through fantastic storytelling and great acting.

Can't recommend highly enough!

This movie starts out as a very realistic and engaging story. About a boy whose dream is to become a professional baseball player. He exhibits the talent which is acknowledged by his coach.The problem is that his parents are not appreciative of his interest. They would prefer that he pursuit a more realistic goal more in line with the family's Jewish traditions.

The drama includes inter-family trauma involving an older brother who is suffering from deep depression and a free spirited sister who lives in California. The first 45 minutes of this movie are really great. The young actor playing the part of the main character was superb as are the parents who interact with him. When they cut to scene where he is all grown up for me the movie just fell all apart. The story line became a real bore populated with uninteresting character actors. In short it loss its soul and that was it for me.

Filmmakers often take on a big gamble when they try to change an endearing child actor's portrayal and transform it into a continuation as an adult and guess what it does not always work.

It is hard to describe the depth or the impact of a movie that is based on the real life tragedies that a person has endured. I found this film to be moving on so many levels. Across the board the acting was inspiring - particularly being a cast of mostly unknowns. They all found a way to tap into the heart of the story. We don't see films these days that are as personal and touching . This one deals with family issues that are difficult, complicated and tragic all at the same time. It is a worthwhile film and deals with subjects that are, sadly, close to home for far too many people.

This film is one of those rare pieces that brings together so many unsung moments in life to create a movie that feels organic. The characters are realistic, the impact of the tragedy is raw and feels deeply relatable to anyone who's felt this kind of loss. A high recommend.