Pastime

I have become an avid follower of William Russ's film career,whether it be television or cinema. My all time favorite performance to date is, ROY DEAN BREAM in PASTIME. Mr. Russ gives a moving portrayal of a gracious, kind hearted man who deserved a lot better than life dealt him. With the exception of this film, it seems Mr. Russ generally takes a supporting role in his work. He is truly a BIG fish in a little pond! This film is worth the watch..or the buy.

One of the unheralded baseball movies of the early 90's , Pastime explores the elements of a 41 yr old pitcher named Roy. The strength of this movie is in the casting. Huss is awesome as Roy and really does an exemplary effort in making the viewing feel his love for the game. The actor that plays Tyrone (Glenn Plummer?) Also does a fine job in his role as a young, black upstart pitcher who is struggling with his career in baseball, fitting into society, and his friendship with Roy.

Surely, a fine baseball movie to watch, although not quite on the level with Soul of the Game or Bang the Drum Slowly, Pastime is worth your $1.. 7.8 out of 10

This movie should be required viewing for all those that call themselves lovers of baseball movies. It is - at it's heart - a great movie about baseball. If you care about the sport, you can't help but relate to Roy. If you care about the human condition, about drama... then please see this movie. Roy's passion, his commitment - this movie does more to describe how it is that grown men can care so much about "just a game" than any baseball film I've ever seen. Pastime is it's own movie, but - if you liked Field of Dreams, or The Natural, or *61, or Bull Durham - I would be utterly and entirely amazed if you did not like this wonderful film. Watch it. Love it. And feel gratified when you pass word of this largely unwatched gem to your friends and family.

This is a great movie about minor league baseball. I recommend it to all baseball fans. If you're looking for endless car crashes and things getting blown up, forget it, this is not the movie for you. But if you're looking for a good, entertaining movie about minor league baseball and the people in it, you'll enjoy this one.

The glamorous world of big league baseball is turned upside down in "Pastime". Instead of watching underachieving, overpaid, major leaguers, you are riding in a bus with the lowest minor league team, and getting a genuine appreciation for their dreams and disappointments. The acting and 50s atmosphere is perfect. William Russ is outstanding as the 40 year old pitcher, hanging on simply because of his love for the game. Noble Willingham as the wise and compassionate manager is another standout. Anyone who enjoys baseball should like the insight gained from this film. In short, "Pastime" is a baseball winner, even if the team is not. - MERK