The Perfect Game is set in Monterrey, Mexico in 1957, during the beginning of industrialization. It stars Jake T. Austin as Angel Macias, a young guy who is a baseball player, and Clifton Collins Jr. as Cesar Faza his coach.
As the film opens, Angel is at a funeral, his family had a terrible accident that marks them forever, and the cause is that his father is very strict. One day Angel finds a ball near the church which is connected with an ex professional baseball player, with comings and goings they start a baseball team to participate in the Little League World Series.
César Faz, moves to Monterrey , Mexico, after leaving his work with St. Louis Cardinals as a clubhouse attendant . There he meets a group of young boys led by Priest Esteban and they love baseball, Cesar has a special connection with Angel Macias, a young pitcher that he takes as a pupil and teaches all his own pitching skills . Angel convince Cesar to coach the team with his skills and priest Esteban support, the boys hone themselves into a competitive team, involving them in situations of segregation and racism, as well as obstacles to prevent them from being the champions of the minor leagues.
Poignantly directed by William Dear, the film manages to capture the essence of Mexico in the 50s, where the first signs of industrialization were given, with a wonderful handling of scenery and photography mixed with the great performances of the stars, making the viewer be moved by the different situations that they are facing.
Although the story seems like a fable, it reflected true events. You sort of know how these underdog sports movies turn out. Doesn't matter. The Perfect Game so expertly uses the charisma and personalities of the actors, especially the young ones, that it's thrilling anyway.
Thanks Alesi, I hadn't heard about this film before and it really seems like a good option. I really like the type of films that show how values help people achieve their goals. I enjoyed reading your review, thanks!
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