Watch Hitting the Cycle

Hitting the Cycle is a heartwarming comedy-drama that premiered in 2012. The film follows the story of a group of friends who reunite to try and complete a legendary baseball challenge. Directed and written by J. Richey Nash, Hitting the Cycle stars Nash alongside Courtney Henggeler and Travis Schuldt. The movie focuses on the group of four friends, who were once part of a little league team in their hometown. They are reunited when one of them, Ethan (Nash), suddenly shows up unexpectedly at the funeral of one of their old teammates. At the wake, Ethan suggests that they attempt the “cycle”, a challenge that they failed to complete as kids. The challenge involves hitting a home run, a triple, a double, and a single, in that order, all in the same game.

The group, which includes the trio of Rob (Schuldt), Kara (Henggeler), and Chris (Adam LaVorgna), are initially reluctant to take on the daunting task. However, as the night goes on, they find themselves reminiscing about their past and longing for the simpler times when they played baseball together. They agree to try and complete the cycle, even though it seems almost impossible.

As the four friends embark on their quest, they encounter a series of obstacles, including injuries, personal issues, and even opposing teams that try to stop them from completing the challenge. They also face their own inner demons and childhood traumas, which threaten to derail their friendship and the mission.

Through it all, Hitting the Cycle strikes a balance between humor and heartbreak, showcasing the ups and downs of male friendship as the characters navigate their way through the challenges of adulthood. The movie plays out like a nostalgic trip down memory lane, as the characters look back on their past with a mix of fondness and regret.

One of the main strengths of the film is its cast. Nash, Henggeler, Schuldt, and LaVorgna deliver authentic and nuanced performances, portraying characters that are both relatable and flawed. The chemistry between the four actors is palpable, as they bounce off each other's energy and create a natural dynamic that feels like a real group of friends.

Another standout feature of the movie is its cinematography. The filmmakers employ a variety of techniques to capture the spirit of the game, from slow-motion shots to drone footage. The baseball games are given a sense of urgency and excitement, while the quieter moments are imbued with a sense of intimacy and introspection that draws the viewer in.

Overall, Hitting the Cycle is a charming indie film that combines nostalgia, humor, and heart to tell a story about the power of friendship and the enduring nature of childhood dreams. It offers a fresh spin on the classic sports movie formula, focusing less on the game itself and more on the characters and their relationships. If you're a fan of feel-good comedies that tug at your heartstrings, Hitting the Cycle is definitely worth checking out.

In conclusion, Hitting the Cycle is a fine example of an indie sports film that manages to the hit the right notes in terms of comedy, drama, and nostalgia. The movie is not flawless, but it succeeds in delivering an engaging story and memorable characters that are sure to resonate with anyone who has ever had a close group of childhood friends. If you're looking for a feel-good film that captures the essence of friendship and the love of the game, Hitting the Cycle is well worth your time.

Hitting the Cycle is a 2012 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.