The Phenom

(THE GREAT SANDLOTINI)

This film is distressing. While tension and suffocation are the central themes of the film, it's not easy to watch. Simmons and Hawke are very effective, however the writing fails to find an equilibrium for the viewer. The film captures the tension of its subject very well, but it's simply too much to digest and consequently doesn't translate well into a satisfying film.

Tackling a subject rarely discussed in movies, let alone professional sports, THE PHENOM lets down its audience by pulling focus away from its intense psychological character study. The self-conscious direction announces itself in every frame, detracting from an otherwise interesting story and solid performances.

if you're here for baseball or sports psychology you might find this offering a little shallow. However,if you want to wrap a bat around some arsehole's head then Hawke's character is great motivation