4192: The Crowning of the Hit King

4192: The Crowning of the Hit King is a captivating sports documentary that was released in 2010. Directed by Terry Lukemire, the film stars Marty Brennaman, Tony Perez, and Pete Rose, who offer riveting perspectives on one of baseball's most dramatic and memorable milestones.

The film's title refers to the 4,192nd hit made by Pete Rose in 1985, an accomplishment that earned him the title of 'The Hit King' by surpassing Ty Cobb's long-standing record. The film delves into the life and career of Pete Rose, utilizing both archived footage and new interviews that explore his unmatched passion for the sport. Rose's story is introduced through the passionate narrative of Marty Brennaman, a veteran sports broadcaster associated with the Cincinnati Reds for over 40 years.

Kicking off with early glimpses into Rose's childhood days in Cincinnati, Ohio, the film shows how his deep-rooted love for baseball was ignited and instilled. Viewers are offered a comprehensive view of Rose's determined attitude, focusing on his path in the baseball world, starting from his high school days to his time playing for the Cincinnati Reds and the Philadelphia Phillies.

Tony Perez, one of Rose's teammates in The Big Red Machine, offers candid insights about their shared baseball careers. Viewers are treated to in-depth discussions and personal anecdotes about their time together on the field, which adds depth to Rose's character and showcases the dynamic camaraderie the Cincinnati Reds team had during their most successful seasons.

The core of the film is the narrative leading up to and including Rose's record-breaking achievement. It goes in-depth into Rose's unwavering commitment, painting a vivid picture of the effort and dedication required to topple a record that had stood unchallenged for nearly six decades. The film maintains suspense around this historic event while highlighting the heavy emotional impact that accompanied the surpassing of Ty Cobb's record.

Apart from focusing on his triumph, the documentary also offers a fair portrayal of Rose's controversies. The film doesn't shy away from the betting scandal that led to his expulsion from the sport, offering an objective perspective on the incident. Rose's interviews throughout the film give viewers a raw and open look at his feelings towards the game and his personal struggles, providing a humanizing aspect that adds depth to his narrative.

Several interviews with close family members, colleagues, and former teammates offer additional details and perspectives, which further illuminate the complexities of Rose's character. His life off the field, including his relationship with his parents and growing up experiences, is explored thoroughly, thereby offering a holistic portrayal of the baseball legend.

From a technical standpoint, the film is superb. The direction complements the narrative, with Lukemire using a diverse range of techniques to maintain viewer engagement. The archival footage is intercut with modern-day interviews and recreations that smoothly transport the audience through the different eras of Rose's life.

4192: The Crowning of the Hit King uses its compelling narrative and intimate interviews to craft a portrait not just of a baseball player, but of a man fiercely devoted to his passion. It presents a provocative examination of Rose’s professional career and personal life, placed within the larger context of the always fascinating world of professional baseball. While some may argue that the controversy overshadows his achievements, this film reminds viewers of the grit, dedication, and pure love for the game that Rose embodied. This documentary is a must-watch for baseball fans, offering a deep and balanced insight into the life and career of one of the sport's most controversial and celebrated figures, Pete Rose.