The Film Biography Of The Iron Horse
Tom Without Pity | A Major Midwestern Metropolis | 07/28/2010
(5 out of 5 stars)
"
This is a review for the classic biographical film THE PRIDE OF THE YANKEES
made by MGM and released in 1942. Gary Cooper plays Lou Gehrig in one of
his most unforgettable roles in this, one of the most memorable films
made during the Golden Age of Hollywood.
I think it's fair to say that the people involved in making this movie were
greatly concerned in making something that they sincerely hoped would stand
the test of time and be watched and enjoyed by millions of people for
possibly hundreds of years. Because I guess that the story of the life of Lou
Gehrig was just the kind of inspiration that many folks, sports fans or not,
felt was needed, especially in 1941 and 1942.
And because, after all was said and done, Lou Gehrig was in many ways one of
the most beloved sports figures of his time. Yes, his early death is part of
his mystique but that tragic early parting is not the main reason he is
remembered so fondly. I think it is how he lived his life, how he handled
fame, relative wealth and eventually how he dealt with his certain doom that
shows us, even to this day, the way to handle life's triumphs and tragedies
with a touch of grace, class and doing your best not to unduly burdon those
you love.
And I believe that THE PRIDE OF THE YANKEES gets those ideas across in
a wonderful fashion.
In fact, THE PRIDE OF THE YANKEES is generally looked upon as the classic
sports biography, which it is. It also is a tremendously entertaining movie
loaded with baseball lore and a chance to see the real Babe Ruth as
he appeared in the later days of his career (I remember reading that the Bambino
lost 60 Lbs to appear in this film).
THE PRIDE OF THE YANKEES is a classic film all the way around, pretty much
a must see by just about every sports fans as well as those of us who
really enjoy and appreciate good films and those who made them.
Five Stars for THE PRIDE OF THE YANKEES, without hesitation."