‘The Turnaround’ – A Powerful Documentary About Kindness, Belief, and the Ripple Effect of a Standing Ovation

It’s nice to be nice, sometimes…

Words spoken by Philly baseball superfan Jon McCann, the voice and subject of the wonderfully crafted documentary short The Turnaround, now streaming on Netflix. On the surface, this is a story about baseball and fandom, but at its core, it’s about the power of a single act to change everything.

Baseball is just one way to show the world that hope is never out of season.

McCann, who has struggled with bipolar disorder and low self-esteem, sees a painful similarity in Trea Turner’s situation. The star player, mired in a deep slump, is mentally struggling, and McCann recognizes the toll this can take. Knowing the city’s unpredictable and often unruly nature, McCann takes a bold step. He uses social media to make a public plea to the fans of Philadelphia, asking them to show support for Turner with a standing ovation when he steps onto the field—despite his poor performance in previous games.

This was a big ask. Philly fans are known for their fiery, sometimes hostile reactions, and McCann knew it could backfire. But because McCann was a well-known, respected supporter, the city took notice. The crowd responded, and when Turner walked onto the field, they gave him the standing ovation he desperately needed. What followed was a complete turnaround: Turner regained his confidence, and his performance on the field improved.

For McCann, this act wasn’t just about baseball. In showing support for Turner, he found a way to believe in himself again. The standing ovation became a symbol of how one person’s belief can spark a chain of positive change, lifting both the player and the community.

David Bolen’s cinematography captures these quiet yet powerful moments, especially during a poignant car-washing scene that heightens the emotional depth of the story. Ari Balouzian’s score perfectly complements the narrative, adding tension and release as the story unfolds. Dillon Hayes’ editing allows the pacing to flow seamlessly, keeping the focus on the personal transformations that are at the heart of the film.

The Turnaround is more than a sports documentary. It’s about the moment when a single act of belief can shift the course of someone’s life. McCann’s simple request changed Turner’s trajectory, reminding us all of the power of support when it’s most needed.

This is a film for anyone who’s ever struggled, felt lost, or wondered if anyone believed in them. The Turnaround shows how kindness can not only turn around a game but change the course of lives, creating a lasting ripple effect that goes beyond the field.