61*

Two baseball fans hunt for Maris's record ball.

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About 61*

Released: 2001

Platform: Hulu

Rating: TVMA

Run time:

Cast
Thomas Jane, Barry Pepper, Anthony Michael Hall, Richard Masur, Bruce McGill

61*

About 61*

The movie "61*" was released in 2001 and directed by Billy Crystal. It focuses on the 1961 Major League Baseball season, particularly the record-breaking home run race between New York Yankees players Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris.

Making/Production

The movie was filmed in Detroit and produced by HBO. Billy Crystal directs the baseball drama. The number in the title, 61*, refers to the controversial asterisk that was allegedly proposed to denote Maris's 61 home run record due to the season being eight games longer than Babe Ruth's time.

Actors

  • Barry Pepper as Roger Maris: He effectively encapsulates the intense pressure and public scrutiny his character faced during the season.
  • Thomas Jane as Mickey Mantle: Jane authentically portrays the legendary player's vivacious character and personal troubles.
  • Anthony Michael Hall as Whitey Ford: Hall throws himself into the role of Maris's supportive teammate.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

  • The film was the directorial debut of famed actor and comedian Billy Crystal.
  • Director Billy Crystal's lifelong love for the Yankees led him to make this movie featuring two of his childhood heroes.
  • The director's personal memorabilia was used as props in the film, including his own Mickey Mantle cards.

Awards

"61*" was nominated for 12 Emmy Awards, and won two, for Outstanding Sound Editing and Outstanding Single Camera Picture Editing for a Miniseries or Movie.

Quotes

  • "You know what we get to do today, Brooks? We get to play baseball."
  • "This is a team, gentlemen, and I will not tolerate players who think they're bigger than the team."
  • "Every time I look up, you're there. What's the secret, kid?"

Music, Soundtrack

  • The film's original score was composed by Marc Shaiman who created an emotional and inspiring soundtrack to complement the movie's tense and dramatic moments.
  • "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" - Traditional
  • "Fools Rush In" – Johnny Mercer & Rube Bloom