We Believe

We Believe is a 2009 heartwarming documentary that chronicles the enduring love affair between the city of Chicago, its baseball team, the Cubs, and the sport itself. Directed by John Scheinfeld and starring a host of notable Cubs fans including actor Gary Sinise, legendary baseball manager Lou Piniella, and former Major League Baseball player, broadcaster, and eternal Cubs icon Ron Santo, the film presents a mesmerizing journey through over 100 years of hope, heartbreak, and passion.

The documentary navigates through the storied history of the Cubs, one of the oldest teams in American Major League Baseball. Narrated by Golden Globe nominee Gary Sinise, a dyed-in-the-wool Cubs fan, the film strikes a harmonious balance between the factual history of the team, its iconic Wrigley Field, insightful interviews, and intimate fan stories. It paints a vivid portrait of century-long loyalty, generational support, and unwavering faith of the fans despite the drought of championships that was broken recently in 2016. We Believe is a beautiful testament to America's oldest professional sports and its unyielding fans.

Lou Piniella, one of baseball's most colorful and respected figures, adds in-depth commentaries throughout the film. His unique perspective brings to life the Cubs' journey through periods of ups and downs while maintaining an essential sense of attachment and fondness for the team. The film touches on his managerial tenure with the Cubs, further cementing the deep-rooted connection between the team, the city, and its supporters.

Moreover, the narrative gains a unique emotional weight through the inclusion of beloved player and broadcaster Ron Santo. A significant Chicago Cubs figure, his love for and dedication to the club are indisputable, which is echoed throughout the film. Santo contributes his own experiences, stories, and memories, further enhancing the film's emotional depth and nostalgia factor.

We Believe takes a broader scope beyond the baseball diamond and explores the culturally diverse, spirited city of Chicago itself. The documentary walks us through the streets and neighborhoods of the city, paying homage to its spirit, resilience, and unwavering love for their Cubs. The movie's beautiful cinematography captures the essence of the Windy City, the raw emotions of its citizens, and their infectious fervor for the game of baseball.

The film effectively utilizes archival footage, photographs, and interviews with players, coaches, journalists, and celebrity fans to engage the audience and create an immersive viewing experience. It digs into fanatical fan rituals, the origin of traditions, and the folklore that has evolved over the course of more than a century.

Despite being primarily a sports documentary, We Believe aims to resonate with a wider audience. Even those who are not hardcore baseball fans will be drawn into the universal themes of hope, faith, community, and an enduring love for the sport. The film tells a euphoric tale of camaraderie, shared dreams, and collective joy, reigniting the magic of baseball as it's weaved into the hearts of its fans.

We Believe serves not only as a comprehensive chronicle of the Chicago Cubs' eclectic history but is also a celebration of the undying optimism of its ever-fervent fanbase. Outlined with instances of human passion and undying optimism, it's a captivating narrative of the city's unwavering dedication to its baseball team. Whether you're a die-hard Cubs fan, a casual baseball enthusiast, or someone who has never watched a game, it's impossible not to be drawn into the enchanting spell that this film casts.

In conclusion, We Believe is a thrilling, poignant, and engaging cinematic homage to baseball and the undying spirit of the Chicago Cubs fandom. It's more than just a documentary; it's a love letter to the city and the sport that unites them all. The film boasts a captivating narrative that will keep you engrossed till the end, regardless of your prior knowledge or obsession with the sport. The enthusiastic spirit of the city, the team, and the fans documented in this film is sure to reignite your passion for the game in an extraordinarily heartwarming way.