The Perfect Catch (2005)

Ben (Jimmy Fallon), a school teacher, brings some of his class on a field trip to meet Lindsey (Drew Barrymore), a successful businesswoman to inspire them as to how they can put their maths to good use in the future. Ben decides to ask Lindsey out and after an initial refusal she agrees to go on a date. Although Ben isn't quite as financially successful as Lindsey, he appears to be "the perfect catch". Lindsey's friends question why he is still unattached at his age, the reason soon becomes apparent as nothing comes before his beloved Boston Red Sox...

The Perfect Catch is an American take on Fever Pitch based on the novel by Nick Hornby. As a fan of Fever Pitch, I had high expectations from this film and I wasn't let down. My initial worries of being able to follow all the baseball references were unfounded as the baseball is really only secondary to the story. The baseball scenes were 'actual' baseball games which makes the movie more authentic. A lot of excitement is built up, especially when the Red Sox are doing well.

Directed by the Farrelly brothers who usually go for "gross out" comedies such as There's Something About Mary, and Me Myself and Irene, The Perfect Catch is more tasteful while keeping up the comedy which is found in Ben and Lindsey's relationships with their friends and the conversations they have. Also the baseball fans who sit around Ben at the games deliver some excellent lines.

Drew Barrymore and Jimmy Fallon give excellent performances in this romantic comedy. There is a sweetness to their relationship and a lot of on-screen chemistry. The movie takes a look at how extreme fans pursue their obsession with sport and a particular team. Ben can plan nothing without first checking the Red Sox's schedule. Everything else in his life comes second.

Lasting Thought: You love your team but what have they ever done for you?

Bottom Line: A movie with a very high feel-good factor that will leave you feeling that your team has just won.

If you enjoy The Perfect Catch you might also enjoy 50 First Dates or Wimbledon.

Reviewed by Sharon Swift, Premier Movie Reviews 2005.

RELATED MOVIE REVIEWS:

BOBBY & PETER FARRELLY: Me Myself and Irene.

DREW BARRYMORE:  50 First Dates,  Charlies Angels,  Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle,  Riding In Cars With Boys,

Genre: Comedy/Sports

Director: Bobby and Peter Farrelly

Certificate: The Perfect Catch was rated 12A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of 12 years of age or upwards.  Violence = mild. Drugs = none. Sex/Nudity = mild. Language = moderate.

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: The Perfect Catch

~ Main Cast ~

Drew Barrymore

Jimmy Fallon

Jack Kehler

Scott Severence

Jessamy Finet

Maureen Keiller