What It's About:

61* takes us back to the famous 1961 race between Yankees Mickey Mantle (Jane) and Roger Maris (Pepper) to break Babe Ruth's single season home run record. In stark contrast to Mantle's reckless, effortless charisma, Maris' natural reserve and evident discomfort will all the hoopla caused fans to turn against the shy, serious man who would surpass Ruth's record that year. This- and the fact that his achievement would always carry an asterisk denoting a longer season than in Ruth’s time (by eight games)- would make Roger’s triumph decidedly bittersweet.

Why I Love It:

Actor/Director Crystal's well-known affection for both the game and the team permeates this reverent, affecting film from HBO, which scored at the Emmys with a whopping twelve nominations (it won two). His casting of the two leads is also inspired, not only because they both turn in solid performances, but also for their uncanny resemblance to the real-life heroes they portray. (It’s almost spooky). Congratulations, Billy- you hit a home run.