The difficulties of making a first film were apparently wiped away as Drew Johnson helmed this great story of a college baseball player and his quest for love. Watching this film was shocking as I thought about the fact that this was Johnson's first feature film. Johnson claims that he was blessed all the way during the process, and one couldn't agree more; blessed with a great story, an amazingly talented Director of Photography, darn good acting, and a soundtrack that slips under your skin and makes you teary-eyed more than once.
However, the film is difficult to enjoy due to poor writing. Although the characters are fleshed out well, exposition is done poorly. The key to this comes from the tiring narration and pointless flashbacks that should often be avoided by first timers. This becomes a crutch and an easy way out of dealing with backstory problems. And the constant clues as to time and place were redundant and forced. This is a timeless story that works too hard to be a period film, specifically placed in the late 70s to 90s. Dialogue was chock full of clichés that provoked pathetic, unwarranted laughter from audience members.
As hard as it becomes to watch, I couldn't help but still marvel at how well the final outcome was, especially for a first film. Cinematographer Doug Glover did an amazing job, creating some beautiful scenes with his long lenses and short depths of field. He has come out of film school with all the skills of a fine DP, one that I shall keep my eye on. And Johnson managed to tackle a difficult task of directing and staring in this film. The small flaws in the film might have been avoided had Johnson focused his talent. Yet you can't ding these newcomers for doing a sub-perfect job. The final product was done right, and I can't help but appreciate the fact that these guys did it. They wrestled with themselves and the odds, and got a very nice film made. I have no doubt that Drew Johnson will make another film, one where he can polish what he accomplished here. As close as this subject was to Johnson, it might prove difficult to find other subjects. However, I for one am looking forward to what the future holds for these talented young filmmakers.
A fine baseball film, a fine love story, and a great film for those who are interested in charting the rise of new talent in Hollywood. If you strive for a love story, watch this film for two reasons. Enjoy the onscreen love story, and relish in the off-screen love that Johnson clearly has for his film.
