About this series
Baseball documentaries
All films — in order
1
When It Was a Game
As seen through the eyes of true baseball enthusiasts, this award-winning documentary tells the story of America's favorite pastime from the Depression to the 1950s, using footage shot from the movie cameras of fans and players. From the first color filming of a baseball game to the 1938 World Series and through the careers of legends such as Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle, the film thoroughly explores the history of baseball in America.
2
When It Was a Game 2
Composed entirely of never-before-seen 8mm and 16mm footage filmed between 1925 and 1961 by baseball players, their families and their fans, this second chapter in the HBO series "When It Was a Game" brings many lost moments to life. Narrated by Peter Kessler, the documentary features clips of Joe DiMaggio, Ty Cobb, Roy Campanella, Jackie Robinson, Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Satchel Paige, Tommy Lasorda and Babe Ruth.
3
When It Was a Game 3
In this third entry of the ongoing HBO documentary series celebrating America's favorite pastime, the focus is on the 1960s, when Major League Baseball was slowly evolving from pure sport to big-bucks entertainment. Using footage of players and fans, the film covers the Yankees' ascension to greatness, the western expansion of both leagues, the increasing inclusion of black players and the rise of free agency.
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