Angels in the Outfield MPAA Rating: PG Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: +2

Destined to be one of the most endearing fantasy pictures of 1994, ANGELS IN THE OUTFIELD is a marvelous remake of a 1951 film of the same name. Abandoned by his father and living in a foster home, twelve year old Roger Bowman (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) longs for a family. He also desperately wants his favorite baseball team, the California Angels, to win the pennant. One night, he prays that God will help the team to win and his prayers are heard. Real angels, which only Roger can see, start to help the players to catch fly balls, hit home runs and pitch sizzling fast balls. Also, the comical, witty chief angel, Al (Christopher Lloyd), appears to Roger regularly to give him instructions and encouragement. The manager of the Angels team, George Knox (Danny Glover), is hot tempered and verbally abusive, but softens as he's befriended and aided by Roger. Though skeptical of Roger's ability to see angels, George eventually becomes a believer. Like most baseball films, this one builds to a final crucial pennant game and the Angels weary pitcher holds the key to success. Fun and heartwarming, ANGELS IN THE OUTFIELD will not only appeal to young people, but mom and dad will love it too.

Do you believe in angels? Roger asks Maggie (Brenda Fricker), his foster mother. I believe in miracles, she replies. Later she says, People believe in God, why not angels? Even hard-hearted George says at a news conference, People are looking for something stronger, higher, something spiritual....Something (miraculous) has happened to the team...fate, angels, call it whatever you want. So, spiritual phenomena are treated favorably, even supported. Another remark is made that where there's love, miracles happen. However, a rather New Age sounding bit of advice is given to look inside oneself for strength. Family values are encouraged through Maggie's faithful care of Roger and his young buddy, J.P. Angels carries a PG rating undoubtedly to encourage older children and adults to attend. So, there's a small penalty to pay in the form of a few moderately rough words, but no obscenities, excessive violence or sexual activity. Take the family to see this one. It's a real winner!

Preview Reviewer: John Evans
Distributor: Buena Vista Distribution Co., 3900 W. Alameda Ave., Burbank, CA 91521