Introduction:
Baseball has always been a sport that captures the hearts of millions, both on and off the field. For former MLB player Ryan Roberts, the transition from the baseball diamond to the silver screen has been nothing short of incredible. Ryan’s latest adventure finds him in a “behind the camera” role as the Baseball Coordinator for the upcoming movie, “You Gotta Believe.” In this blog post, we’ll take you behind the scenes of Roberts’ amazing journey as he brings his baseball expertise to the world of film.
A New Chapter Begins:
After a successful career in Major League Baseball, where Ryan Roberts played for several teams, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Tampa Bay Rays, and Boston Red Sox, he decided to explore new avenues in the world of baseball. Little did he know that his baseball expertise and passion working with youth would collide, leading him to a remarkable opportunity in the film industry.
With a storyline deeply rooted in the spirit of baseball, Ryan Roberts’ expertise was sought out to ensure authenticity in every aspect of the game.
About the Movie:
The film “You Gotta Believe” features Luke Wilson, Greg Kinnear, and Molly Parker, and is based on a true story. Filmed in London and Toronto, Canada, the movie follows a group of underestimated youth baseball players from Fort Worth, Texas, who dedicate their season to a teammate’s dying father. Against all odds, they make a remarkable Cinderella run to the 2002 Little League World Series, leading to a historic showdown that became an instant ESPN classic.
Realism in Action: Ryan Roberts' Role
Ryan Roberts’ role as a Baseball Consultant and Coordinator for the film was crucial in ensuring that the on-screen baseball scenes were true to the sport. His extensive knowledge of the game allowed the actors to train and perform as though they were real baseball players. From batting stances to pitching mechanics, Ryan’s guidance was instrumental in making every moment on the field feel genuine.
Although he wasn’t hired as an Assistant Producer, Ryan played a part in the production process of the film’s baseball scenes. He helped coordinate the baseball sequences, collaborated with the director and cinematographer, and ensured that the scenes were visually accurate. His unique perspective as a former Major League ballplayer, with four decades of experience from Tee-ball and Little League all the way to The Show, added an invaluable layer of authenticity to the film.
Creating Authenticity:
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ryan Roberts’ involvement in “You Gotta Believe” was his dedication to preserving the authenticity of the sport. He worked closely with the actors, not only to train them but also to help them understand the mindset and emotions of baseball players, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and never giving up.
Ryan’s attention to detail extended to teaming up with others to ensure the baseball equipment used in the film, from uniforms, bats, and gloves were accurate to the time period and teams depicted in the story. This commitment to authenticity brought a level of realism to the film that will resonate deeply with baseball enthusiasts.
A New Chapter:
For Ryan Roberts, the experience of working on “You Gotta Believe” has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has allowed him to continue his love for baseball in a new and exciting way while sharing his passion with a broader audience. Through his expertise and dedication, Ryan has contributed to a film that not only entertains but also captures the essence of the sport he loves.
As the release of “You Gotta Believe” approaches, baseball fans and moviegoers alike can look forward to a film that celebrates the beauty and resilience of the game that’s captivated so many of our hearts. Roberts’ remarkable journey from the MLB to the silver screen serves as a testament to the enduring love of the game and its ability to inspire, both on and off the field.
Conclusion:
The opportunity Ryan received working on this film was like nothing he’d experienced before. His passion for the game and dedication to authenticity he hopes will have left an indelible mark on parts of the film he was involved in. Ryan feels immensely blessed to have had the opportunity to work on the film and spend time with the talented crew. He hopes this isn’t his last venture into the world of film.
Ryan’s gratitude extends to Writers Lane Garrison and Ty Roberts, and Producers Matt Harvey, Pasha Patriki, and Houston Hill for bringing him on board and giving him this opportunity. Their collaborative effort made “You Gotta Believe” a reality, and Ryan is deeply appreciative of their roles in this journey. As we eagerly await the release of this heartwarming sports drama, we are reminded of the extraordinary power of a team united by a shared vision. In the face of grief and adversity, the team comes together, bringing light to a dark situation and achieving the impossible. This story reflects the strength of community and the profound impact of collective determination, inspiring us all to believe in the power of hope, unity, and resilience.
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