Grade: A+

Money Ball the latest baseball movie is in theaters now. It stars Brad Pitt as Billy Beane and Jonah Hill as Peter Brand. They are trying to find a way to make the small payroll of the Oakland A’s hold up to the payroll of teams like the Yankees.

The first time I watched the preview for this film I really wasn’t sure what to think. There are so many baseball movies, it was difficult to believe they could come up with something new. But they actually pull it off quite nicely.

Every now and then Brad Pitt actually picks a winner. Jonah Hill gets a chance to play a little more than the funny guy, but he’s still the comic relief, lets not kid ourselves. This true story will have you rooting for the under dog from the get go. Pitt is just that likable. It’s what he does, and is what he’s known for, heck it’s why he was cast in the part. A couple stand outs in the smaller roles were Chris Pratt as Hatteberg the former catcher turned first baseman, and Kerris Dorsey as Casey Beane aka Billy’s daughter.

Like I mentioned earlier, it’s based on a true story. One of the characters in the film is first base coach Ron Washington. A fact I was oblivious to, until after the film. One of the best lines in the film is delivered by Brent Jennings who plays Washington. I have to admit being from Arlington, and with how well the Rangers have been doing with him steering the ship, made the movie that much cooler.

So for those who enjoy true stories, baseball films, or just darn good movies. This is all three wrapped into a pretty package. If I could slap a bow on it for you I would. Hopefully you don’t need that incentive to go check this one out.