Talent for the Game (1991)

Director: Robert M. Young

Cast: Edward James Olmos, Lorraine Bracco, John E. Coleman

Synopsis: Baseball scout Virgil is under threat of losing his job with the Angels, especially with tough new owner, Gil, on board. Then Virgil discovers young pitcher Sammy, and believes he could be the next big thing in baseball.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen a more undemanding film than Talent for the Game. Like a timid, doe-eyed dog that licks your hand and sits on your foot, this movie really wants to be liked. No risks are taken, no trusted formula departed from, and no original lines placed in the mouths of a largely anonymous cast. Only Edward James Olmos (Blade Runner, 2 Guns) as the veteran scout battling against a baseball team owner’s self-serving manipulation of his naive star signing, makes any kind of impression – and then it’s only because it’s difficult to believe such a fine actor would allow himself to be ensnared in such mediocrity.

Having said that, it would be unfair to be too damning about this movie. Apart from the occasional ludicrous scene (such as Sam Bodeen’s introduction to the press) it’s completely inoffensive, and manages to not outstay its welcome. However, if, like me, you know nothing at all about baseball, the climactic game may prove to be a little puzzling

(Reviewed 4th February 2002)