10 Greatest Baseball Films Of All Time

8.  42 (2013)

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Warner Bros. Pictures

The first film on this list that is based on real-life events is the Jackie Robinson biopic, 42. Played by the late Chadwick Boseman, a story of Robinson’s incredible life and achievements was always going to be more than just another sports film. Addressing Robinson’s character and principals, the film focuses on Brooklyn Dodgers owner Branch Rickey’s decision to desegregate baseball in 1946 with the signing of Robinson.

Including some of the most notable moments of Robinson’s early baseball career and breaking of the colour barrier, the film was a great commercial success and has only contributed further to the long-lasting legacy of MLB’s first black athlete.

Best Scene:

After being the victim of Phillies Manager Ben Chapman's torrid racist abuse, Robinson heads to the tunnel to vent his frustrations. In the most powerful scene of the film, Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford) reminds Robinson of his responsibility to not retaliate with violence, but with his baseball skills. Boseman’s acting in this scene, and the film as a whole, is superb.

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Contributor

Film and history enthusiast, writing articles about some of cinema's best from both the past and present. Find me on Twitter @JThurstance