Classics: A Review of A League of Their Own By Lauren Ennis

 "There's no crying in baseball!" curmudgeonly coach Jimmy Duggan declares in the 1992 crowd-pleaser A League of Their Own. The irony is that by the end of this historical sports drama even the most hardened of viewers will have a lump in their throat. Blending comedy, drama, and heart the film pays apt homage to the great American pass time and the people who love it most. For a sports film that continues to score big hit the field with the ladies of the Rockford Peaches with A League of Their Own.

The story begins in 1988 with elderly Dottie Hinson attending the opening of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League exhibit at the Baseball Hall of Fame. The film then flashes back to 1943 when the nation was embroiled in World War II and professional sports were all but over. In an effort to revive the dying professional sports industry and boost national morale several MLB team owners band together to form a women's league. Ace catcher Dottie is spotted at a local softball game by scout Ernie Capadino. While Dottie is content in her marriage to a local soldier and work at a dairy her sister Kit is desperate to escape their small town. Ernie then reveals that he will only allow Kit to try out as pitcher if Dottie agrees to try out as well. Both sisters are then recruited for the Rockford Peaches along with a colorful cast of misfits worthy of the Bad News Bears. The team soon enlists the services of alcoholic former Cubs star Jimmy Duggan as manager. So begins a season that makes for the ultimate Cinderella story and an enduring tribute to the great American pass time.

Over thirty years after its release this feel good sports dramedy remains in a league of its own. The film sheds light upon a fascinating but largely forgotten moment in history, while relating an all-American tale of opportunity and teamwork. Despite its often light-hearted tone, the film wisely does not shy away from the sexism and limitations that the players faced. Instead, the film uses those obstacles to relate a tale of the American Dream as the women use a combination of individual skill and grit along with teamwork to overcome that adversity. The film also highlights the ways in which baseball provides the women the opportunity to overcome their personal struggles as each of the players uses their success on the field to build a better future off of it. For a sports movie that is sure to get you cheering run the bases with the Rockford Peaches in A League of Their Own.

The story comes to bey turns heartfelt and hilarious life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Jon Lovitz is bitingly funny as talent scout Ernie. Megan Cavanagh lends heart and humor to "homely" tomboy Marla. Rosie O'Donnell blends wisdom with wisecracks as street-wise Doris. Madonna infuses what could have easily have been a one-note-role as sexy taxi dancer Mae with world-weariness and humor. Lori Petty infuses Kit with a scrappiness and charm that ensures viewers will sympathize with her desperate desire to escape her sister's shadow. Tom Hanks turns in one of the most entertaining performances of his career as hard drinking tough talking manager. Jimmy. Geena Davis makes for a compelling leading lady as she blends intelligence, grit, and warmth, as team team captain, Dottie.

Through its expert blend of fact, fiction, comedy, and drama, A League of Their Own makes for a delightful slice of American pie. The script brings history to life while still maintaining a human heart. The cast ensure that viewers will be rooting for the Peaches just as hard as the teams' fans. Celebrate the great American pass time and step up to the plate with the Peaches in A League of Their Own.