Review: Show Me The 'Moneyball'

By Michael Lopez

Fall is creeping up on us and so is "Oscar" movie season. One of the more noteworthy mainstream films to fall into that category is this week's release, Moneyball. Written by The Social Network’s Aaron Sorkin and starring Brad Pitt (in a very heartfelt performance), it's definitely one to put on your radar.

Part of what makes this movie so intriguing is the fact that it's based on a true story. And these aren't some random small-town characters we're focusing on here, Moneyball recounts the record-breaking 2002 season of the Oakland A's!

Obviously baseball fans are going to embrace this movie. It's got great characterizations of real MLB stars like David Justice, Scott Hatterberg, and Carlos Peña. But Moneyball’s engaging plot transcends the world of sports and, at its core, it's an uplifting story about overcoming challenges and valuing those close to you.

Brad Pitt definitely knocks it out of the park (no pun intended) with his role as A's general manager, Billy Beane. A former outfielder for the New York Mets, Beane's journey from washed up slugger to world-renowned baseball strategist is fascinating. Pitt actually approaches the character from a subtle perspective, but shows definite emotion in scenes relating to Billy's family and home life.

Comic actor Jonah Hill also deserves some credit for showing his range in a heavily dramatic part. Hill plays Beane's right-hand-man and the statistician who helps him "rethink" the way of organizing a baseball team. Rather than spend money on big names, Billy finds a way to create the perfect low cost combination of players for the Oakland dugout.

Yes, hardcore sports fans will notice some "artistic liberties" taken with Moneyball. It may not follow the exact details of the A's 2002 season (and, to be honest, Brad looks nothing like the real-life Billy Beane), but it's entertaining, it's moving, and it will definitely encourage non-baseball fans to read up more on the sport.

Bottom line: There are some wonderful life lessons to be taken from Moneyball. Just like all great sports movies (including Warrior from a few weeks ago), it creates engaging underdog characters that you really find yourself rooting for. But rather than go for the cliché "ultra-happy" Hollywood ending, Moneyball stays grounded in reality and definitely makes you eager to learn more about the great Billy Beane!

What's your favorite sports movie? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Baseball, Billy Beane, Blogger: Michael Lopez, Brad Pitt, Jonah Hill, Moneyball, Movie Reviews, Movies & CineMás, Oakland A's, Sports