I think of movies with a baseball theme around this time of year. Spring brings out the softer, gentler side of sports after football is layed to rest. Yes, baseball can be physically taxing, but it really consists of mental calculations figuring RBI’s. Its pace is slower. There’s more chatter on the pitcher’s mound. Fans have time to daydream and contemplate the course of humanity, even though the rule of thumb is “don’t think.” Millions believe in the “Church of baseball.”
My dad was a huge baseball fan. Whenever he had the time, the game, any game, was constantly blaring in the background. I used to sneak into the family room and try to sit with him. It was tough because baseball was my brother’s thing to watch with my dad. I didn’t understand the game at first, like my brother. I remember wanting to be in that room and wanting to connect with my dad, who was usually a man of very few words. It was tough. I am a natural chatterbox. My voice often echoed in those awkward silences. I could not compete with my brother for my dad’s attention. I would lose every time. After years of trying, I finally gave up, but I always had a soft spot for the art of throwing, catching, and hitting a small white ball. And all I remember was wanting to belong in that inner circle.
Baseball and Kevin Costner are the rare combo that can lift any cinema buff’s spirits. Costner oozes baseball genes every time he picks up a bat or mitt. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that 37 years ago, Costner was smoking hot. He had a way of looking a person in the eyes and not backing down in his humble, “aw, shucks,” unassuming way. Women all over America melted, myself included. He was so believable and understated and could dance with abandonment and confidence even while wearing a floor-length floral kimono. There wasn’t a woman alive who didn’t turn to mush upon hearing the line… ”I believe in slow, deep, wet, soft kisses that last for three days.” How can any man follow that heart-palpitating moment?
BULL DURHAM has forever been one of my favorite baseball films, mainly because it wasn’t just about the game. It encompassed the idea of finishing what you start. It fills viewers with pride, a little humility, and love for what you are passionate about. It allows audiences to realize not everyone has all the answers about life. It’s knowing what questions to ask to get to the other side when in doubt. Baseball specializes in timing. So does BULL DURHAM.
Ron Shelton wrote and directed the 1988 popular movie BULL DURHAM. An Oscar nomination for Best Screenplay recognized his work. The film was based on Shelton’s past experiences playing in the minor league. Kurt Russell helped him write the script. He thought he would be portraying Costner’s role as “Crash.” He never had a chance against the authenticity of Costner, who hit two home runs during the filming. Shelton ensured BULL DURHAM was not just a typical rom-com but also a huge tribute to those who “play ball.” When the credits roll in the beginning and at the end, each frame is filled with pictures and info about baseball legends. The montages were created with great care, respect, and love.
Susan Sarandon played Annie Savoy. Her character’s name, “Annie,” is a slang word used to describe baseball groupies in real life. There was no doubt that Annie knew her facts and quantum theories. The director was worried Sarandon might be too old for the part against Costner. He was just thirty years old, and she was 41. Audiences didn’t have a problem with the two of them together. Their chemistry was palpable and off-the-chart. They were the epitome of lust and controlled desire until they literally exploded together in each other’s arms. Their intense, longing looks into each other’s eyes made America’s hearts burn with fire.
Surprisingly, when the cameras weren’t rolling, Sarandon met her future husband and co-star, Tim Robbins, who played Nuke (Or Meat as Crash used to call him). Robbins was the perfect stupid foil against Crash’s sarcastic, mentoring, teacher, catcher quips. I never saw what Annie saw in Nuke when standing near Crash. Yes, I understand how people of any age can be scared and insecure about finding love with a mature man. It was just obvious and fun to share it all with Annie.
BULL DURHAM was filmed on real baseball fields in North Carolina. The extras used in the stadium scenes were invited to participate after attending a local rock concert. Several lines are improvised throughout the story. The infamous meeting on the pitcher’s mound allowed Robert Wuhl, the assistant coach, to use his brilliant comedic genius to solve every player’s issues. BULL DURHAM felt natural, pleasing, and easy to watch and remember long after the final pitch.
BULL DURHAM was a “major league love story in a minor league town” classic film. It made audiences believe anything was possible. Dreams and goals could come true. The music was upbeat and dance party-worthy. The players’ journey showed the screwball way life can work out. BULL DURHAM was even a catalyst for creating a baseball movie wave yet to come in the future… one that I always wished I could share with my dad.
BULL DURHAM is available on TCM.
