A lot of people don't like Sayles' movies because he weaves so many characters and subplots it can be like watching a three ring circus. But if you have the attention capacity, his films can be extremely rewarding. Eight Men Out benefitted from input from folk historian Studs Terkel (who also played a small role in the film as a journalist), and put some of the blame on the owner Comminsky for the scandal. A good film for high school American history as it's very consistant with the historic record - except that the famous line from the kid fan "Say it ain't so, Joe," was fabricated by a reporter at the time. However, it's forgiveable, because the line is part of the folklore, and key to the drama of it all. An all star cast for a very worthwhile project.

I really tried. . .I mean I really wanted to like this movie. I just thought it was too slow. Decent costumes, just not enough baseball and pacing for my tastes.

kicked ass

Nicely filmed historical piece that stays pretty close to the facts. An ensemble cast of predominantly B list actors turn in better than average jobs, with Cusack quite strong.

Good movie. Good history lesson.