Watch The Babe Ruth Story

The Babe Ruth Story is a 1948 biographical sports drama film that tells the story of one of the greatest baseball players of all time, George Herman 'Babe' Ruth. Directed by Roy Del Ruth, the film stars William Bendix as Babe Ruth, Claire Trevor as his wife Helen Woodford Ruth, and Charles Bickford as Jack Dunn, Ruth's first professional manager.

The story follows Ruth's journey from a troubled childhood in Baltimore to becoming a baseball legend with the New York Yankees. The film begins with Ruth as a young child, playing baseball on the streets of Baltimore and getting into trouble with the law. It then moves on to his time at St. Mary's Industrial School for Boys where he met Brother Mathias (played by Sam Levene), who became a father figure to Ruth and introduced him to the game of baseball.

After being discovered by Jack Dunn, Ruth is signed to play for Dunn's minor league team, the Baltimore Orioles. He quickly rises through the ranks with his incredible hitting and pitching abilities and catches the attention of the Boston Red Sox. Ruth is then traded to Boston, where he helps the team win their first World Series championship in 1918.

However, Ruth's relationship with the Red Sox becomes strained, and he is eventually sold to the New York Yankees. This move is met with controversy and anger from Boston fans, but it ultimately turns out to be the greatest decision for both Ruth and the Yankees. Ruth becomes the face of the Yankees and leads them to several World Series victories.

Throughout the film, Ruth's personal life is also explored, particularly his tumultuous marriage to Helen Woodford. Their relationship is often strained, and Ruth's infidelities and alcoholism put a strain on their family life. However, the two eventually reconcile and Ruth's final moments in the film show him in a tender moment with his wife.

The Babe Ruth Story is a classic sports biopic that tells the story of one of the most iconic baseball players of all time. William Bendix's performance as Babe Ruth is widely acclaimed and he captures the spirit and energy of the baseball legend. The film also highlights the importance of mentorship and father figures in shaping Ruth's life, particularly Brother Mathias and Jack Dunn.

Another important theme that runs throughout the film is the struggle that Ruth faced as a result of his humble beginnings and his rise to fame. The film does not shy away from Ruth's flaws, particularly his alcoholism and infidelities. Instead, it portrays him as a flawed but ultimately lovable character who always gave his all on the baseball field.

Overall, The Babe Ruth Story is a classic sports film that tells the inspiring story of one of baseball's greatest legends. With its strong performances and memorable scenes, it remains a must-see for any sports fan or lover of classic cinema.

The Babe Ruth Story is a 1948 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 46 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.2.