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Fastball

Name: Fastball
Director: Jonathan Hock
Released: 2016
Duration: 87 min

Representation Score

0.3/10

Minimal

2016

Not Rated

Director

Jonathan Hock

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Fastball is a technical exploration of the physics and mechanics of high-velocity pitching. It functions as a philosophical study of sport rather than a social drama, prioritizing the pursuit of physical excellence over character-driven narratives. The film operates within a traditional framework that celebrates established athletic norms. By focusing on the 'logic' of the game and the mastery of nature, it avoids deconstructing existing social hierarchies. Ultimately, the documentary serves as a celebration of meritocratic ideals. It lacks the necessary representation to address gendered roles, racial systemic dynamics, or diverse identities.

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Category Breakdown

Does Fastball have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The documentary focuses solely on pitching techniques and baseball statistics. It does not include any LGBTQ+ characters or discussions about non-traditional gender identities.

How does Fastball portray gender?

Minimal

The film centers on a male-dominated professional sports environment and the struggles of male athletes. It lacks strong female roles or challenges to traditional masculine leadership.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Fastball?

Limited

The narrative emphasizes the evolution of speed in baseball without delving into multi-layered racial stories. It follows a conventional presentation of baseball history without exploring systemic racial issues.

How does Fastball represent religion and culture?

Minimal

The film celebrates individual achievement and success within established Western institutions. It avoids criticizing capitalism or religion, focusing instead on disciplined meritocracy.

Does Fastball include disability representation?

Minimal

The subject matter centers on peak physical performance and cognitive abilities. It does not explore perspectives on neurodivergence or physical impairments within the context of elite athletics.

Present on Screen

Provides a deep, technical look at the physics and mechanics of professional pitching.
Offers a philosophical perspective on the intersection of human biology and kinetic energy.

Limited or Absent

Lacks representation of female athletes or diverse gender perspectives in professional sports.
Fails to engage with the systemic racial complexities or multi-layered histories of baseball.
Excludes perspectives regarding disability or neurodivergence within the context of elite performance.

Official Synopsis

Since 1912, baseball has been a game obsessed with statistics and speed. Thrown at upwards of 100 miles per hour, a fastball moves too quickly for human cognition and accelerates into the realm of intuition. Fastball is a look at how the game at its highest levels of achievement transcends logic and even skill, becoming the primal struggle for man to control the uncontrollable.

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