Fastball Blu-ray Review

The AVC encoded image (1.78:1 aspect ratio) presentation of "Fastball" provides a clean and crisp viewing experience, capturing intricate details with remarkable clarity. The newly shot HD interview footage is particularly impressive, showcasing rich textures and precisely delineated features, such as the fine lines on weathered faces. Colors are consistently sharp, rendering natural skin tones and vibrant greenery, while varied hues in clothing are accurately represented. However, periodic banding is evident.

The Blu Ray's 1080p presentation remains consistently stellar, maintaining the 1.78:1 aspect ratio. The documentary uses sources of varying quality—from newly restored 16mm to vintage 4:3 television footage. Recent digital interviews shine with enhanced clarity, detail, and color fidelity. While the vintage materials' quality varies depending on their original condition, the overall picture quality is commendable for a documentary of this nature. This mix of historical footage and contemporary interviews provides a visually engaging compilation of baseball's greatest moments, making minor flaws in the presentation easily forgivable.

The audio presentation of "Fastball" on Blu-ray features a 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio mix that is tailored to the documentary's needs, with a predominant focus on front-centered dialogue. The clarity and emotive quality of the interview footage are well-preserved, ensuring that participants' voices are crisp and clear. Surround elements are present but understated, contributing atmospherics to encapsulate the ambiance of ballparks and crowds. However, enthusiasts looking for a robust surround immersion may find this aspect somewhat limited.

The soundtrack, scored by Tony Morales, although not particularly memorable, is competently rendered with respectful placement and instrumental clarity. It helps in sustaining an engaging and lively track without overshadowing the core narrative. Dialogue remains the focal point, effectively anchored at the center channel. Archival material occasionally exhibits a slight tinny or harsh quality, which can be attributed to the original recording conditions rather than any deficiency in the audio mix itself. The low-end frequencies are minimal but sufficient for the documentary's requirements.

Overall, this DTS-HD MA 5.1 mix provides a strong auditory experience for a documentary format, prioritizing dialogue intelligibility and modest use of surround channels to enhance the viewing experience without overwhelming it.

The Blu-ray extras of "Fastball" provide an enriching experience for baseball enthusiasts and fans of the documentary alike. The Extended Interviews offer a deeper dive into the minds of players, presenting uncut thoughts on special pitchers and the psychological demands of the sport. Hall of Fame Outtakes bring nostalgic and lively anecdotes from legends like George Brett and Joe Morgan, capturing the essence of camaraderie at the Baseball Hall of Fame. The Steve Dalkowski Extended Scene is particularly poignant, delving further into the tragic story of a man who never realized his potential greatness. Lastly, the Theatrical Trailer gives a neat, encapsulated preview of the documentary itself, rounding out a robust set of extras worth exploring.

Extras included in this disc:

• Extended Interviews: Continues the discussion with more player insights on special pitchers and the psychology of baseball.
• Hall of Fame Outtakes: Anecdotes from legends at the Baseball Hall of Fame.
• Steve Dalkowski Extended Scene: A deeper look into one of baseball's most tragic figures.
• Theatrical Trailer: Official trailer for the documentary.

"Fastball," directed by Jonathan Hock, delves into the dynamic history of pitching velocity in baseball. By focusing exclusively on the fastball, Hock eschews a broader overview of the sport, allowing for a meticulous examination of the titular pitching style. Narrated by Kevin Costner, the documentary gathers renowned players, scientists, and aficionados to explore the nuances of pitching. Notable figures such as Justin Verlander, Nolan Ryan, and Hank Aaron share personal anecdotes and insights, providing a rich tapestry of stories that contribute to a compelling narrative. The film successfully combines player perspectives with scientific analysis, dissecting the fastball into various elements for an in-depth study.

The documentary excels in its specificity, eschewing the generalities of baseball to present an exhaustive analysis of the fastball. Hock brings onboard cognitive specialists and physicists who break down the physical impossibilities and perceived realities of the pitch, adding significant depth to the discussions. This scientific lens juxtaposes effectively with the players' lived experiences, creating a dual narrative that is both informative and engaging. The film's exploration of the ongoing debate surrounding who is the fastest pitcher—including historical footage of icons like Sandy Koufax and modern marvels like Aroldis Chapman—adds an additional layer of intrigue.

At 86 minutes, "Fastball" remains tightly paced and rich in content without overstaying its welcome. The narrative's swift progression ensures that it remains captivating throughout, and Costner's narration provides cohesion to the segmented explorations. Hock avoids presenting categorical conclusions, instead keeping discussions open-ended to encourage ongoing debate. The result is a documentary that not only educates but also invites further contemplation, making it a must-watch for both ardent baseball fans and casual viewers seeking a deeper understanding of the sport's most electrifying pitch.

"Fastball" is a meticulously crafted documentary that delves into the intricate world of baseball, focusing on the evolution of speed measurement and the high-pressure role of closers. It provides an articulate examination of how pitching speed has been gauged over the last century and brings to light the stories of pitchers who, despite their talents, never reached the professional heights they were predicted to achieve. The film is a blend of awe-inspiring moments and humor, offering visual evidence and engaging narratives from the dugout. This ensures that viewers not only gain a comprehensive understanding of the technicalities but also develop a newfound appreciation for the nuances and miracles of baseball.

The Blu-ray release by Kino Lorber is commendable, presenting an excellent audio-visual experience that enhances the enjoyment of the film. The thoughtful inclusion of a wealth of extra content offers additional layers of insight, making it a valuable resource for baseball enthusiasts. What's particularly impressive about "Fastball" is its balance in providing informative content without talking down to the audience. It respects the viewer's intelligence, offering an open-ended exploration of who might be the fastest and hardest pitcher in baseball history.

In conclusion, "Fastball" is a must-watch for any baseball fan or anyone interested in sports documentaries. Its rich content and stellar A/V presentation combined with engaging storytelling make it both an educational and entertaining experience. While it might not appeal to every film enthusiast, it stands out as a highly recommended watch for those with even a passing interest in baseball.