The Natural, directed by Barry Levinson, is a 1984 gem in the drama and sport genres that still swings hard nearly four decades later. Let's dive into this movie review and see what makes it tick! Barry Levinson, known for his knack for storytelling, delivers a film that pitches nostalgia, wonder, and a touch of the mystical.
So here's the plot: We've got Roy Hobbs, played by the ever-dashing Robert Redford, who emerges from obscurity like a lightning bolt to become an enigmatic, almost supernatural baseball legend. This isn't your average sports flick. It's draped in mystery, ambition, and a bit of whimsy—like a fairy tale on a baseball diamond. The film explores themes of redemption, the price of talent, and the lure of fame. There's this magical realism that threads throughout, making you wonder—is he a man or a myth? It's Myth Roy Hobbs versus the elite, and the audience is caught in a glorious cosmic gamble!
Now, let's talk about what makes this film shine beyond its plot. The casting choices were spot on. Robert Redford gives Roy Hobbs an unforgettable aura—he's magnetic. Then there's Robert Duvall as the sleuthy sportswriter Max Mercy, adding layers to the narrative. And what about Glenn Close and Kim Basinger? Close brings warmth and soul to her role, while Basinger dazzles with her dangerous allure. Not to mention Wilford Brimley, who exudes that classic manager's gruff charm. The cinematography beams—literally! Those iconic scenes of Hobbs hitting homers into the stratosphere turn baseball into pure art. It's both nostalgic and visionary, blurring lines between reality and magic. Levinson's direction and the screenplay by Roger Towne and Phil Dusenberry, adapted from Bernard Malamud's novel, are meticulously composed, balancing legend with a realistic crust.
Comparing The Natural to other greats, it stands as a peculiar bridge between movies like ‘Field of Dreams’ and ‘Bull Durham’. Yet, it carves out its own niche with its idealistic, almost ethereal charm. Unlike ‘Field of Dreams’, which leans heavily into fantasy, or ‘Bull Durham’, which grounds itself in gritty baseball realism, 'The Natural' seems to straddle both worlds. It vibes with ‘The Sandlot’ when it comes to capturing youthful awe and ‘Eight Men Out’ in its atmospheric journey through time and sport.
If you love drama and sport, this movie is a must-watch! It’s a narrative about striving, falling, and finding glory, interwoven with magic. It's more than just a movie review; it's a bridge to understanding an art-form infused with myth. So grab some popcorn, kick back, and let Robert Redford lead you on a fieldful of dreams. Ready to question what legendary cinematic bliss feels like? 'The Natural' awaits!