61*

61* is an American baseball movie, made for HBO, directed by Billy Crystal and written by Hank Steinberg. The film was first released on April 28, 2001. The biographical film follows the quest during the 1961 season of New York Yankees sluggers Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris to break Babe Ruth's single-season home run record of 60 set in 1927. The story begins on opening day when Maris (played by Barry Pepper), is presented with the Most Valuable ... more

61* is an American baseball movie, made for HBO, directed by Billy Crystal and written by Hank Steinberg. The film was first released on April 28, 2001. The biographical film follows the quest during the 1961 season of New York Yankees sluggers Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris to break Babe Ruth's single-season home run record of 60 set in 1927. The story begins on opening day when Maris (played by Barry Pepper), is presented with the Most Valuable Player award for the 1960 baseball season. Mantle (Thomas Jane) is the team's superstar. As the season begins, Mantle starts off hot, Maris not. Roger thinks he might be traded, but new manager Ralph Houk (Bruce McGill) decides to have Mantle and Maris switch places in the Yankees' batting order to see if it helps. It does and Maris begins to hit home runs at a record pace. Mickey keeps pace and it becomes clear both "M & M Boys" are going to make a run at the Babe's record. Mickey's life off the field is taking a toll. He drinks, enjoys the... less