I appreciated the simplicity of this true story, which effectively demonstrates how a team can transform from being disjointed to becoming united. "You Gotta Believe" is set in 2002 and follows the Fort Worth Westside All-Stars, a team with an unexpected shot at glory as they aim for success at that year’s Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pa. There's something universally appealing about a comeback story, and this team’s journey is particularly moving, given that their coach, Bobby Ratliff (played by Luke Wilson), is battling cancer.
Warning: Potential spoilers ahead.
Ratliff is a supportive and devoted father who is passionate about baseball and isn’t afraid to push his son, Robert (Michael Cash), who plays first base on the team. The All-Stars’ manager, Jon Kelly (Greg Kinnear), is a skilled baseball strategist but struggles with connecting to the kids on a personal level. His challenge deepens when his friend and fishing partner, Bobby, faces a potentially terminal illness.
The movie pulls at the heartstrings as these young players evolve from a group of spirited misfits into a well-oiled baseball machine, just in time for the playoffs. The complexities of people, especially kids, are portrayed well, as they often lack the filters that adults have. For instance, Jon’s son, Walker (Etienne Kellici), is a pitcher with a strong arm but struggles with discipline and control. Mikey (Jacob Mazeral), the catcher, is terrified of the fast-moving baseball. Scooter is a “nerd” who actually bats better without his glasses, and outfielder Mark (Scott MacKenzie) finds himself more interested in Scooter’s older sister (Ashley Emerson) than in the game.
What makes this movie enjoyable is the strong performances by the young actors. However, the screenplay, written by Lane Garrison, does have its flaws. Some of the dialogue feels repetitive, trite, and stifling at times.
Despite being filled with clichés, "You Gotta Believe" is a solid film. I won’t give away whether they win the big game, but this is a feel-good movie that’s well-edited and perfect for a family audience.
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