Watch Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns
- TV-PG
- 1994
- 1 Season
-
9.2 (4,462)
Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns is a documentary series about the history of baseball, one of America's greatest sports, with nine episodes that were released between 1994 to 2010. The show is hosted by prominent journalists and writers like Daniel Okrent, George F. Will, and John Chancellor, who present a comprehensive look at the game from its modest beginnings to its influential role in American culture. The show explores the evolution of the game, its iconic players, its influence on pop culture, and the transformative role that it has played in the political and social landscape of the country. This documentary highlights the journey of baseball from the mid-19th century to the present day, examining its highs, lows, and transformational moments for a country that has undergone significant changes in the past century. The first episode of the series, "Our Game," introduces viewers to the origins of baseball, which can be traced back to the mid-1800s. By examining the development and transformation of the game, Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns presents the history of the sport as the story of America's transformation from an agrarian society to an industrial powerhouse with a thriving popular culture. The series then proceeds to explore the various stages of baseball's growth, tracing the game from its humble beginnings in small ballparks, through to the creation of the national league, and the modern era of multimillion-dollar contracts, free agency, and player strikes. The documentary examines moments of triumph such as Babe Ruth's home run record and Jackie Robinson's integration of baseball, as well as moments of great sadness, including the Black Sox scandal and the infamous steroid era. Through breathtaking archival footage, interviews with scholars and baseball legends, the film takes viewers on a journey through the important moments, controversies, and personalities in baseball history. From Ty Cobb to Hank Aaron to Derek Jeter, the series looks at the people who have played the game, the major events that have transformed it, and the fans that have followed it. Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns is not just a history of the sport but an examination of the impact that it has had on American society. The show explores some of the darker moments in American history, including the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War, showing how baseball played a pivotal role through the stories of Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier, and Curt Flood, who challenged the reserve clause. The documentary also looks at the changing political landscape of America, showing how baseball has played a role in guiding the conversation surrounding issues like immigration and national identity. Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns argues that baseball has always been both shaped by and influenced American society, and that the game has the power to both reflect and transcend the conflicts of a changing country. Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns is more than just a sports documentary. It is an epic tale of America itself, told through the lens of a uniquely American pastime. The series covers all of baseball's landmark moments, from the first world series to the controversial 1994 player's strike. It is a history of the game, but also a history of America itself, with all its hope, tension, and tragic failings. In conclusion, Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns is a magnificent showcase of America's favorite pastime, presented entertainingly and intelligently. Entrenched in baseball's history, the show is embellished with captivating footage, which takes viewers on a journey through baseball's best, brightest, and darkest moments. If you can only watch one baseball documentary, Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns is definitely worth watching.