I am really not sure why "The Lou Gehrig Story" was made in the first place. After all, most folks who were alive back in 1956 had probably already seen the Hollywood biopic "Pride of the Yankees". But someone at "Climax!" thought it was a good idea and so we have this teleplay--one that is available for free download from archive.org--though I am not sure if you really should bother.
Although the true story is compelling, it's just not made that well. Wendell Corey looks nothing like Gehrig nor does he look like a ball player. Additionally, imagine making such a TV production with very little in the way of budget and no outside shots whatsoever--only sound stages for the entire film. Because of this, they made extensive use of stock footage--twenty year old stock footage at that. Finally, the writing is at times embarrassing--especially when Lou gets word from his doctor that the disease is terminal. They never talk about the ALS or his death--and just talk in the most ridiculous baseball metaphors and language! It's unintentionally very funny.
So, if after all my warnings you still decide to see it, by all means do so. Just set your expectations rather low and perhaps you'll enjoy it.
Although the true story is compelling, it's just not made that well. Wendell Corey looks nothing like Gehrig nor does he look like a ball player. Additionally, imagine making such a TV production with very little in the way of budget and no outside shots whatsoever--only sound stages for the entire film. Because of this, they made extensive use of stock footage--twenty year old stock footage at that. Finally, the writing is at times embarrassing--especially when Lou gets word from his doctor that the disease is terminal. They never talk about the ALS or his death--and just talk in the most ridiculous baseball metaphors and language! It's unintentionally very funny.
So, if after all my warnings you still decide to see it, by all means do so. Just set your expectations rather low and perhaps you'll enjoy it.
