There is little doubt that to the average viewer this is an entertaining, well-made film, and if you and your family are in a non-critical mode, in the mood for a baseball movie, some easy laughs and a tiny bit of history, this is a good choice.
If there is a problem with the film its because its trying to do three things simultaneously: Is it a serious feminist document about women in baseball in the 1940s? Is it a predictable comedy with stereotyped characters (the grumpy manager who doesn't think women can play ball..guess what happens?) and all-too familiar plot lines? Is it a three-hankie tear jerker with lots of female bonding to ensure the waterworks will flow? Director Penny Marshall balances the elements effectively, but the honor she could have done to the real accomplishment of these sports- minded pioneers too frequently smacks of the sitcom; nevertheless, fine performances all round, especially from lead Geena Davis
If there is a problem with the film its because its trying to do three things simultaneously: Is it a serious feminist document about women in baseball in the 1940s? Is it a predictable comedy with stereotyped characters (the grumpy manager who doesn't think women can play ball..guess what happens?) and all-too familiar plot lines? Is it a three-hankie tear jerker with lots of female bonding to ensure the waterworks will flow? Director Penny Marshall balances the elements effectively, but the honor she could have done to the real accomplishment of these sports- minded pioneers too frequently smacks of the sitcom; nevertheless, fine performances all round, especially from lead Geena Davis