The Babe

The Babe is a 1992 American biographical drama film directed by Arthur Hiller, capturing the remarkable life of one of baseball's most iconic figures, George Herman "Babe" Ruth. The film stars John Goodman in the leading role of Babe Ruth, Kelly McGillis as Claire Hodgson, his second wife, and Trini Alvarado as his first wife, Helen Woodford. The screenplay, crafted by renowned writer John Fusco, engages the audience by tracing Babe's journey from his early life through his legendary career in Major League Baseball.

John Goodman, known for his robust and charismatic on-screen persona, paints a multidimensional, passionate, and living portrait of Babe Ruth. Goodman's performance evokes the joy and sorrow, glory and hardship, that characterized Ruth's life. His portrayal of this legendary athlete is not just as a baseball star but as a man wrestling with his personal demons, striving to find balance between super-stardom and his personal life.

The Babe starts by delving into Ruth's childhood years at St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys, a reformatory and orphanage, and his introduction to baseball by Brother Matthias, whom he credits as the greatest influence in his life. This raw, revealing dive into Ruth's early years offers the audience a poignant, human perspective on the icon, grounding his legendary feats in a sympathetic, relatable character.

As the story unfolds, it follows Ruth as he signs with the Boston Red Sox as a left-handed pitcher, setting the stage for his rise to superstardom. When he transitions to playing outfield for the New York Yankees, he truly secures his place in baseball history. In these years, Ruth's life off the field takes on the same outsized proportions as his performance on the field, complete with excessive drinking, eating and reckless behavior.

Kelly McGillis delivers an emotionally powerful performance as Claire Hodgson. She storms into Ruth's life as a whirlwind, helping push aside the fog that seems to hover around him. McGillis offers a stirring interpretation of the driving force behind Ruth's later successes, positioning Claire not just as Ruth's wife, but as his fiercer supporter, his stabilizer, and in many ways, his saving grace.

Trini Alvarado plays Ruth's first wife Helen Woodford, whose relationship with Ruth was strained due to his lavish lifestyle and infidelity. Alvarado's portrayal expresses a depth of emotion that underscores the tragedy and heartbreak entwined with the joy and triumph of Ruth's life.

Director Arthur Hiller uses these historical events to depict the tumultuous journey of a man exploited by the very sport that he loves, to draw a portrait that is both larger-than-life and profoundly human. It's not only about the home runs and the fame, but also the man behind the legend, his struggles, his insecurities, and his attempts at redemption. The leisurely pace of the film allows the audience to have a deeper understanding of Ruth's character, and each supporting character enriches Ruth's story further, adding a layer of complexity.

Cinematography by Haskell Wexler captures the feel and ambiance of the 1910s and 1920s by creating stunning visuals that accurately reflect the historical nuance of the era. The soundtrack, expertly composed by Elmer Bernstein, contributes to the film's emotional tone, accentuating moments of triumph, despair, and redemption.

Although The Babe's portrayal of Ruth's cocky, boisterous personality fits the public's image of him, the film doesn't shy away from showing the troubled, vulnerable man behind the baseball legend. It highlights Ruth's determination to overcome various personal and professional obstacles, and despite the self-destructive behaviour, the heroism remains.

The Babe is a larger-than-life portrayal of an extraordinary individual who lived his life just like he played his game: hard, fast, and with a relentless determination that thrilled, entertained, and inspired millions. It's an essential watch for baseball enthusiasts and a worthwhile exploration of fame, talent, and personal struggle for any film lover.