For Love of the Game MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 1/2 Content: -2

My father had only two loves, my mother and baseball. Baseball has been Billy Chapels (Kevin Costner) life. After 19 years of pitching for the Detroit Tigers, Billy learns the team has been sold. And the new owners plan to trade Billy to another team. Billys girlfriend, Jane (Kelly Preston), tells him shes moving to London. So theres a lot on his mind as he steps up to the mound against the Yankees for what could be his final game as a Tiger. Is it time to retire from the game? And how does he really feel about Jane? Is his arm good for another pitch? This story intertwines the love story of Billy and Jane with Billys love for baseball and his teammates. Both stories will have audiences rooting for Billy as he tries to strikeout batters without striking out with Jane.

Billy thinks back through his five year relationship with Jane from their first chance meeting which leads to a night of sex. Later, they discuss having a casual relationship whenever Billys in town. But their feelings are more than casual. When Janes daughter, Heather (Jena Malone) runs away, Jane turns to Billy for help. And Billy develops a good relationship with Heather. But when an injury threatens his career, Billy shuts out Jane as a distraction. Theres no nudity or graphic sexual content although Jan and Billy are shown in bed a few times. Unfortunately, their premarital sexual relationship is accepted as normal. Alcohol is frequently used and abused in the film by both players and fans. Billy admits to believing in God and even prays during the game, but the dialogue includes Gods name in vain 12 times along with other profanity. Many moderate crudities and obscenities, including 1 f-word further pollute the air. Theres much to like about FOR LOVE OF THE GAME, but the foul language and condoned premarital relationship make it a no hitter.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608