Viva Baseball

Culled from over 100 hours of archival footage and player interviews, this modest documentary celebrates the significant contributions of Latinos to the game of baseball, along the way recounting some amazing stories, including the personal odysseys of many well-known players who confronted institutional racism in their determination to break into the Major Leagues (viewers still unaware of organized baseball's history in this regard are likely to receive quite a shock). Among the legendary players represented here are Minnie Minoso, Orlando Cepeda, Tony Perez, Felipe Alou, Juan Marichal, Fernando Valenzuela, and Keith Hernandez, while current baseball superstars include David Ortiz, Alex Rodriguez, Carlos Beltran, and Miguel Tejada. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Dan Klores (Ring of Fire: The Emile Griffith Story, VL-11/05) and narrated by musical performer Marc Anthony (better known to some as Mr. J-Lo), this inspiring documentary will likely entertain even those viewers who aren't baseball fans. DVD extras include bonus interview footage. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (E. Hulse)