Fastball (2016)

Fastball Poster

Since 1912, baseball has been a game obsessed with statistics and speed. Thrown at upwards of 100 miles per hour, a fastball moves too quickly for human cognition and accelerates into the realm of intuition. Fastball is a look at how the game at its highest levels of achievement transcends logic and even skill, becoming the primal struggle for man to control the uncontrollable.

Introduction
"Fastball" is a 2016 American documentary film that checks out the most well-known pitch in baseball - the fastball. It was directed by Jonathan Hock and functions interviews with numerous MLB (Major League Baseball) legends. The movie investigates whether the craze for speed is a current phenomenon or a timeless part of America's preferred pastime.

Exploring the History
"Fastball" delves into the history of the renowned pitch and the essential role it played in forming the sport from the late 19th century to today day. The movie kick-starts this expedition by examining the careers of legendary players who were understood for their exceptional pitching speeds, such as Walter Johnson and Bob Feller. The narrative utilizes archival footage and interviews to weave together an interesting tale of a few of the fastest pitchers in baseball's history.

Science and Speed
One of the most fascinating aspects of "Fastball" is its clinical analysis of the pitch. The documentary examines the physics behind the fastball, showing how it flows in the air, the speed it can reach, and how it confuses batters. It also features Alan Nathan, a physics professor emeritus at the University of Illinois, who explains the science behind pitching. He keeps in mind how a 100 mph fastball reaches home plate in less than 400 milliseconds - a speed faster than the blink of an eye.

Spotlight on Legendary Players
The film consists of interviews with some of the most celebrated figures in baseball: from the pitchers who tossed the fastest balls, to the batsmen who had to face them. Greats like Hank Aaron, George Brett, Johnny Bench, Derek Jeter, and Tony Gwynn review their experiences in these tense face-offs. The documentary especially highlights the contributions of Nolan Ryan and Aroldis Chapman - renowned for their record-breaking fastballs.

The Mythology of the Fastball
What "Fastball" likewise convincingly shows is the mystique that surrounds the pitch. It represents the fastball as more than just a physical accomplishment; it's a mental weapon as well. The audiences get a sense of the fear, respect, and tradition that this pitch motivates in gamers, fans, and experts alike. The film also provides some intriguing stories and myths that have actually emerged over the years regarding the legendary pitchers and their fastballs.

Conclusion
In general, "Fastball" is an appealing and informative documentary that depicts the significance of the most feared pitch in baseball. It blends the history, science, and folklore of the sport with personal viewpoints from top players, providing a much deeper understanding of baseball's most dynamic pitch.

"Fastball" isn't simply a movie for baseball devotees, anyone interested in history, science, and sports can value the eager insights it supplies into one of America's the majority of precious games. The 2016 documentary does a remarkable job of using stats, interviews, physics formulas, and historical anecdotes to study the fastball, the players who mastered it, and how it transformed the sport.

Top Cast

  • Kevin Costner (small)
    Kevin Costner
    Narrator
  • Hank Aaron
    Self (archive footage)
  • Nolan Ryan
    Self (archive footage)
  • Derek Jeter (small)
    Derek Jeter
    Self
  • Denard Span
    Self
  • Craig Kimbrel
    Self (archive footage)
  • Justin Verlander
    Self (archive footage)
  • Bryce Harper
    Self (archive footage)
  • Chris Cooper (small)
    Chris Cooper
    Clifford Blankenship (voice)
  • George Brett
    Self (archive footage)
  • Joe Morgan
    Self (archive footage)