robred69

After reading the reviews, which seem a little unfair. The costumes, the production and the acting was actually good. The sub-plots were at times, tedious and opportunities were certainly lost in character development. However, if criticism is to be laid at the film's door, surely its the lack of or omission of the complex political struggles that were happening in this new-independent state. The lead character Martin, a nationalist, but never given the meat to espouse the nationalist cause. I saw two opportunities in which a real grasp of the issues could've been explained, even a debate! But no, it was just nationalism in the face of imperialist aggression, whilst in the midst of these political forces a new Bolshiveik/Communist regime was now in existence. The battle scenes were thorough and realistic enough. Some individual scenes in the latter half of the film should be best forgotten. Overall a reasonable film that was dis-jointed by useless sub-plots that did not enrich the film, the political radicalism and confusion was missed, this meant that a film about Riga will only be for an audience of Riga. Latvia is a part of the world, so ....show yourselves to the world.

Watching this movie was one of the highlights of the year. Being from England, you never really can get a handle on soft-ball/base-ball. However, the character of Artie was brilliant. An endearing slob, who seems to take a break from the harsh realities of life, but clings to a team, that gives dimension to his existence.

The adult-centred jokes, pressures and incidents carrys this movie, with rude, crude and hilarious moments. It also shone a light on the under-side of New Jersey with mis-fits, never-do-wells and cynics who live up to a reputation foisted upon them from popular TV Shows.

The crowning piece of comedy has to belong to the bachelor party episode and the aftermath of it, in which Artie's approach to life rebounds spectacularly on to him. His self-loathing and immature personality nearly wrecks the very thing he holds dear, his new found partner and his closest friends.

However, he has a nemesis to defeat and a monkey on his back to remove. Although he does not get it all...Artie certainly gets what matters most. Love and honour. A must see film for adults over 18. It is a film that men - especially blue collar...can certainly identify with.