Any athlete who chases down the immortal records of the greats will almost always face some backlash. 61* manages to put together the story of Roger Maris and Micky Mantle as the pursue the single season home run record. One of these guys is already a celebrity on and off the field, while the other is very private and professional. The public clash with these guys are they challenge Babe Ruth’s record for home runs. The amazing thing about the movie, directed by die-hard Yankees fan Billy Crystal, is true to life, with all the nasty parts. I’m sure some bad stuff was cut from the final script, but 61* gives baseball fans and movie goers a glimpse of the struggles that come with fame and fortune of not just playing for the New York Yankees, but becoming a baseball legend. 7/10
Ten Stars or Less 