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 is one of the best of the '90s. I couldn’t get over the fun, excitement, and incredible acting this movie delivered.
With a stellar cast including Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Madonna, and Rosie O’Donnell, this film was a masterclass in acting, and Penny Marshall showed a masterclass in directing.

I’m not sure how much of this movie is based on real-life events, but I believe it’s a fictional take on how the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) began.
The movie was both a critical and commercial success, with a wonderful score. Honestly, I can’t think of a single reason why anyone wouldn’t enjoy this film.

Set during World War II, the story takes place at a time when Major League Baseball was struggling. To keep the spirit of the sport alive, team owners decided to create an all-female league.

The story follows two sisters, and we are looking at this movie, from their viewpoints. The sisters are Dottie (Geena Davis) and Kit (Lori Petty). Both are recruited to play in the new form league. Dottie is the more talented and level-headed of the two, while Kit is fiery and determined to prove herself one. In fact, the only reason Kit got in was because Dottie agreed to join the league, as it was only her they wanted.

Their sibling rivalry is blazing for us to see throughout the movie, and it’s clear that Kit is constantly competing with Dottie, even if Dottie isn’t always aware of it.

The women (and others) form a team called Rockford Peaches, and they’re coached by Jimmy Dugan (Tom Hanks), a former MLB player who’s initially dismissive of the idea of an all-female league, but eventually comes around.

The movie explores the challenges these women face—not just on the field, but in their personal lives.

The movie explores the choices women faced during that era. Some wanted to stay home and be housewives, while others wanted to step out and make something of themselves. What I love about the film is how it shows that, no matter what path these women chose, none of them regretted their decisions in the end. The movie closes with a heartfelt reunion, where the women look back on their time together with pride.
There’s also a strong theme of sibling rivalry, and we see how sometimes, one sibling can be in competition with themselves just as much as with their sister.