For Love of the Game

1999 Drama

Based on the novel by Michael Shaara, For Love of the Game brought Kevin Costner back to the world of baseball after his successes with Bull Durham (1988) and Field of Dreams (1989). Billy Chapel (Kevin Costner) is a star pitcher with the Detroit Tigers, standing on the mound at Yankee Stadium and throwing what is shaping up to be a perfect game with the help of his best friend and catcher, Gus Osinski (John C. Reilly). However, Billy is having a hard time keeping his mind on the game; he's come to a crossroads in both his personal and professional lives, and he isn't sure what to do or where to go. He's learned that the Tigers are about to be sold, and the new owners intend to trade him at the end of the season, and that his girlfriend Jane (Kelly Preston) is planning to leave him. For Love of the Game represents a change of pace for director Sam Raimi, best-known for the Evil Dead trilogy and the acclaimed suspense drama A Simple Plan (1998) (although Raimi, a baseball fan born in Michigan, doubtless enjoyed making a film featuring the Detroit Tigers). more..

Director: Sam Raimi

Starring: Kevin Costner, Kelly Preston, John C. Reilly, Jena Malone,Brian Cox

Reviews

  • After revitalizing baseball movies with "Field of Dreams" and "Bull Durham," he's now three for three with the funny, quirky, rueful, and richly textured For Love of the Game.

    Jay Carr - The Boston Globe

    19 January 2013

  • It is impossible to think of anyone but Costner in this role. His commitment and sincerity are never in doubt.

    Bob Graham - The San Francisco Chronicle

    19 January 2013

  • Those who have even a small soft spot for baseball's soothing rhythms will be hard-pressed to resist it.

    Kenneth Turan - Los Angeles Times

    19 January 2013

  • Costner's determination to avoid change keeps this baseball movie at a low line drive when it might have knocked one into the bleachers.

    Lisa Schwarzbaum - Entertainment Weekly

    19 January 2013

  • Tested my own love of the game more than anything since the time Roseanne screeched the national anthem.

    Mike Clark - USA Today

    19 January 2013

Awards

  • Favorite Supporting Actress - Drama/Romance

    Blockbuster Entertainment Awards (2000)

     
  • Best Sound Editing - Dialogue & ADR

    Motion Picture Sound Editors (2000)

     
  • Worst Actor

    Razzie Awards (2000)

     
  • Best Family Feature Film - Drama

    Young Artist Awards (2000)

     
  • Best Young Actress/Performance in a Motion Picture Drama

    YoungStar Awards (2000)