In this third entry of the ongoing HBO documentary series celebrating America's favorite pastime, the focus is on the 1960s, when Major League Baseball was slowly evolving from pure sport to big-bucks entertainment. Using footage of players and fans, the film covers the Yankees' ascension to greatness, the western expansion of both leagues, the increasing inclusion of black players and the rise of free agency.
Jul 2000
The 1972 Olympic men's basketball final, in which Team USA suffered their first ever loss in Games competition, was one of the most controversial events in the history of both the Olympics and basketball.
Jun 2002
Composed entirely of never-before-seen 8mm and 16mm footage filmed between 1925 and 1961 by baseball players, their families and their fans, this second chapter in the HBO series "When It Was a Game" brings many lost moments to life. Narrated by Peter Kessler, the documentary features clips of Joe DiMaggio, Ty Cobb, Roy Campanella, Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Satchel Paige, Tommy Lasorda and Babe Ruth.
Jul 1992
As seen through the eyes of true baseball enthusiasts, this award-winning documentary tells the story of America's favorite pastime from the Depression to the 1950s, using footage shot from the movie cameras of fans and players. From the first color filming of a baseball game to the 1938 World Series and through the careers of legends such as Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle, the film thoroughly explores the history of baseball in America.
Jul 1991
With one swing of a bat, Bobby Thomson became a legend. His dramatic home run on October 3, 1951, led the New York Giants to win the National League pennant over the rival Brooklyn Dodgers. This documentary looks at the teams, personalities and events that combined to create one of the most heated pennant races ever witnessed...one that ended with an unforgettable homer.
Jul 2001
Documentary examines the history and evolution of the Olympic Games, taking a close look at the Olympic charter, oath and ideals. Also featured are rare home movies and interviews with Olympic athletes and the oldest known color footage of the Olympic Games from Berlin in 1936.
May 1996
The history of the Los Angeles Dodgers begins in the 19th century when the team was based in Brooklyn, New York.
Dec 1990