A League of Their Own (1992)

A League of Their Own (1992)

8/10

 

Starring

Tom Hanks

Geena Davis

Madonna

Lori Petty

 

Directed by Penny Marshall

 

Some movies deserve their due, and A League of Their Own stands tall as one of the ’90s’ finest gems. I’m still buzzing from the infectious energy, heartfelt drama, and powerhouse performances this film delivers.

With a knockout cast—Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, and Rosie O’Donnell—it’s a masterclass in acting, guided by Penny Marshall’s sharp, empathetic direction. While I’m not entirely sure how closely it sticks to real history, I know it’s a fictionalized take on the origins of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). And honestly? It works. The movie struck gold both critically and commercially, backed by a pitch-perfect score. You can’t sit through this movie and not walk away with a smile.

Set during World War II, the film explores how Major League Baseball faced collapse with so many men off at war. To keep the sport alive and fill the stands, team owners launched an all-female league.

The heart of the film lies in the rivalry between sisters Dottie (Geena Davis) and Kit (Lori Petty). Dottie, the naturally gifted catcher, radiates calm confidence, while Kit’s fiery determination masks her insecurity. Their dynamic crackles: Kit’s relentless drive to outshine her sister clashes with Dottie’s quieter resolve. And Kit only makes the cut because Dottie negotiated for her to be there—a detail that later fuels their tension even further.

Then we have Tom Hanks as Jimmy Dugan, a washed-up MLB star turned reluctant coach, delivering the now-iconic line: “There’s no crying in baseball!” The women face hurdles both on and off the diamond—societal judgment, personal sacrifices, and the pressure to prove themselves in a man’s world.

What I adore is how the film celebrates choice. Some characters embrace independence; others yearn for traditional roles.

That said, A League of Their Own is a great movie, but it’s not without its flaws. The pacing can be a bit off, with some scenes dragging while others speed through important moments. A few characters, though entertaining, feel more like background players without much depth. The sibling rivalry, while a key part of the story, sometimes takes up so much focus that the larger struggles of the league feel sidelined. And while the movie keeps things light and fun, it smooths over some of the tougher realities these women actually faced, making it feel a bit too polished at times.

To me, this movie is a love letter to resilience and sisterhood.

I highly recommend watching this if you haven’t already.