
Baseball: The Movie - An Interview with Author Noah Gittell
05/10/24 • 30 min
In this special episode of Film & Whiskey, hosts Bob and Brad sit down with Noah Gittell, noted film critic and author of the new book "Baseball: The Movie." This deep dive explores the rich intersection of America’s pastimes: baseball and film. Gittell shares insights from his comprehensive study of baseball films, highlighting how these films have shaped and reflected the American Dream.
Film & Whiskey Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday.
Film & Whiskey Instagram
Film & Whiskey Facebook
Film & Whiskey Twitter
Email us!
Join our Discord server!
For more episodes and engaging content, visit Film & Whiskey's website at www.filmwhiskey.com.
This episode features a captivating conversation with Noah Gittell, whose latest publication, "Baseball: The Movie," serves as a definitive history of baseball in cinema. Gittell, a seasoned film critic with contributions to The Atlantic and The Guardian, brings a unique perspective on how baseball movies like "Field of Dreams," "The Bad News Bears," and "A League of Their Own" have not only entertained but also impacted American culture and identity.
Gittell discusses the evolution of the baseball movie genre, noting key shifts from simplistic portrayals to complex narratives that engage with themes of nostalgia, cynicism, and the American Dream. The conversation reveals how these films operate at the intersection of film and sports, often offering a sunny rendering of American values while also critiquing the myths that shape them.
The episode also delves into the artistic value of these films, examining the cinematic techniques that have allowed directors to create some of the most influential scenes in film history. Gittell highlights overlooked gems in the genre, offering listeners new movies to explore and appreciate.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how baseball cinema has evolved to reflect changing societal attitudes and how it continues to influence both film and sports cultures. The discussion is not just about the films but also about the broader cultural implications they carry, making it a must-listen for movie buffs and baseball fans alike.
In this special episode of Film & Whiskey, hosts Bob and Brad sit down with Noah Gittell, noted film critic and author of the new book "Baseball: The Movie." This deep dive explores the rich intersection of America’s pastimes: baseball and film. Gittell shares insights from his comprehensive study of baseball films, highlighting how these films have shaped and reflected the American Dream.
Film & Whiskey Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday.
Film & Whiskey Instagram
Film & Whiskey Facebook
Film & Whiskey Twitter
Email us!
Join our Discord server!
For more episodes and engaging content, visit Film & Whiskey's website at www.filmwhiskey.com.
This episode features a captivating conversation with Noah Gittell, whose latest publication, "Baseball: The Movie," serves as a definitive history of baseball in cinema. Gittell, a seasoned film critic with contributions to The Atlantic and The Guardian, brings a unique perspective on how baseball movies like "Field of Dreams," "The Bad News Bears," and "A League of Their Own" have not only entertained but also impacted American culture and identity.
Gittell discusses the evolution of the baseball movie genre, noting key shifts from simplistic portrayals to complex narratives that engage with themes of nostalgia, cynicism, and the American Dream. The conversation reveals how these films operate at the intersection of film and sports, often offering a sunny rendering of American values while also critiquing the myths that shape them.
The episode also delves into the artistic value of these films, examining the cinematic techniques that have allowed directors to create some of the most influential scenes in film history. Gittell highlights overlooked gems in the genre, offering listeners new movies to explore and appreciate.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how baseball cinema has evolved to reflect changing societal attitudes and how it continues to influence both film and sports cultures. The discussion is not just about the films but also about the broader cultural implications they carry, making it a must-listen for movie buffs and baseball fans alike.
Previous Episode

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe / Clontarf Classic Blend
Join us on a magical journey through the wardrobe into the mystical land of Narnia and a taste of Ireland with Clontarf Classic Blend. In this episode of the Film & Whiskey Podcast, we dive deep into the 2005 cinematic adaptation of C.S. Lewis's beloved novel, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe," followed by a detailed review of the smooth and flavorful Clontarf Classic Blend Irish whiskey.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro
(9:15) Brad Explains
(13:16) Performances and Themes
(35:25) Clontarf Classic Blend Review
(43:22) Two Facts and a Falsehood
(48:00) Final Analysis
(57:42) Let's Make it a Double and Final Scores
Dive into the enchanting world of Narnia in our latest Film & Whiskey episode where we explore the epic movie battles, the rich Christian symbolism, and the mystical allure of the wardrobe that leads to Narnia. "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe" not only captivates with its visual effects and heartfelt performances but also offers a deep dive into themes of bravery, sacrifice, and redemption. Tilda Swinton’s portrayal of the White Witch brings a chilling depth to the classic battle between good and evil, complemented by the majestic presence of Aslan.
Switching from the fantastical to the flavorful, this episode also features a review of Clontarf Classic Blend, a whiskey that offers a smooth gateway for beginners into the world of Irish whiskeys. With its affordable luxury and rich flavor profile that includes notes of caramel and vanilla, Clontarf Classic Blend pairs wonderfully with the adventurous spirit of our Narnia discussion. Whether you’re a fan of epic fantasy films or the nuanced world of distilled spirits, this episode serves as your guide to both.
From analyzing the intricate film adaptation techniques and the legacy of C.S. Lewis’s work to discussing the best ways to enjoy Clontarf whiskey, our hosts, Bob and Brad, ensure an engaging and insightful discussion. They even throw in a fun segment, "Two Facts and a Falsehood," challenging you to discern truth from fiction about the movie and the whiskey.
Join us as we blend cinema and spirits in a unique concoction that's sure to delight both movie buffs and whiskey aficionados alike. Whether you're revisiting this childhood classic or discovering the rich tastes of Irish whiskey, this episode promises to enhance your appreciation for both.
Film & Whiskey Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday.
Film & Whiskey Instagram
Film & Whiskey Facebook
Film & Whiskey Twitter
Email us!
Join our Discord server!
For more episodes and engaging content, visit Film & Whiskey's website at ...
Next Episode

Night at the Museum / Redwood Empire Lost Monarch (feat. Lee Diaz, ReserveBar)
In this captivating episode of the Film & Whiskey Podcast, join hosts Bob and Brad along with special guest Lee Diaz, E-commerce director and Single Barrel Curator at reservebar.com, as they explore the whimsical chaos of "Night at the Museum" and dive into the rich, smooth notes of Redwood Empire Lost Monarch whiskey.
Whether you're a fan of heartwarming family adventures or a whiskey aficionado looking for your next favorite blend, this episode promises insights and entertainment in equal measure.
Timestamps:
(0:00) Intro
(7:42) Brad Explains
(9:06) Performances, Themes
(35:20) Redwood Empire Lost Monarch Review
(51:06) Two Facts and a Falsehood
(57:57) Final Analysis
(1:01:49) Let's Make it a Double and Final Scores
Dive into the magical, after-hours world of "Night at the Museum," a film that brings history to life in the most literal and entertaining way. This episode breaks down the enchanting special effects and the stellar performance by Ben Stiller and Robin Williams, surrounded by a cast that brings iconic historical figures to life. As the museum's exhibits spring into action, so does the discussion, exploring themes of courage, family, and the magic of history.
Transitioning from film to flask, the episode shifts to a tasting of Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, a blend that captures the essence of Northern California's rich distilling heritage. Lee Diaz brings expert insights into the craft of whiskey making, discussing the sustainable practices of the Redwood Empire distillery and the complex flavor profile of the Lost Monarch, from its subtle vanilla notes to its robust rye spice.
Film & Whiskey Podcast. New episodes every Tuesday.
Film & Whiskey Instagram
Film & Whiskey Facebook
Film & Whiskey Twitter
Email us!
Join our Discord server!
For more episodes and engaging content, visit Film & Whiskey's website at www.filmwhiskey.com.
If you like this episode you’ll love
Episode Comments
Generate a badge
Get a badge for your website that links back to this episode
<a href="https://goodpods.com/podcasts/film-and-whiskey-14347/baseball-the-movie-an-interview-with-author-noah-gittell-51283102"> <img src="https://storage.googleapis.com/goodpods-images-bucket/badges/generic-badge-1.svg" alt="listen to baseball: the movie - an interview with author noah gittell on goodpods" style="width: 225px" /> </a>
Copy