61* 2001
"Why did America have room in its heart for only one hero?"
Billy Crystal's 61* (2001) dives into the intense 1961 MLB season when Yankees legends Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle chased Babe Ruth's hallowed home run record. While Mantle basked in adoration, Maris faced relentless scrutiny—a mirror to the era's expectations.
Director: Billy Crystal
Cast
Barry Pepper
Roger Maris
Thomas Jane
Mickey Mantle
Anthony Michael Hall
Whitey Ford
Richard Masur
Milt Kahn
Bruce McGill
Ralph Houk
Chris Bauer
Bob Cerv
Jennifer Crystal Foley
Pat Maris ('61)
Christopher McDonald
Mel Allen
Haynes Brooke
Detroit Bartender
Bob Gunton
Dan Topping
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 61* (2001) about?
61* follows Yankees teammates Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle as they race to break Babe Ruth's 60-home-run record during the 1961 season. Their contrasting reputations—one loved, the other reviled—frame a gripping tale of pressure, resilience, and the cost of glory.
Who directed 61*?
Billy Crystal directed 61*, blending his love for baseball with a sharp, emotional storytelling style.
Who stars in 61*?
The film features Barry Pepper, Thomas Jane, Anthony Michael Hall, Richard Masur, and Bruce McGill as key players in the Yankees' dramatic season.
Is 61* (2001) worth watching?
While unrated, 61* delivers a compelling sports drama with strong performances and a nostalgic vibe. Its themes of rivalry and ambition make it a worthwhile watch for fans of character-driven films and baseball history.
How long is 61*?
61* runs for 129 minutes, offering plenty of time to dive into the Yankees' 1961 season.
🎥 Trailer
About 61* (2001) — Billy Crystal's Gritty Sports Drama You Need to See
Billy Crystal's 61* (2001) dives into the intense 1961 MLB season when Yankees legends Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle chased Babe Ruth's hallowed home run record. While Mantle basked in adoration, Maris faced relentless scrutiny—a mirror to the era's expectations. As the pressure mounts, the film captures the raw tension between fame and resentment, framed against a backdrop of black-and-white nostalgia. The story balances sports drama with personal stakes, revealing how competition can both unite and isolate. Crystal's direction infuses the narrative with heart and humor, making it more than just a baseball tale.
Set in an era of baseball's golden age, 61* explores obsession, rivalry, and the price of greatness. With a runtime that immerses viewers in the season's drama, the film blends historical authenticity with human drama. Whether you're a sports fan or a lover of character-driven stories, its portrayal of ambition and adversity resonates long after the final out.
