Swinging for the Fences: Uncovering Baseball's Hidden Gems with Noah Gittell

Welcome to The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates interview series on radio and podcast.  I'm your host, Paul Vogelzang, and today we have a very special episode for all you baseball and film aficionados out there.   We're joined once again by Noah Gittell, a distinguished film critic for the Washington City Paper and a renowned author whose latest book, "Baseball The Movie," dives deep into the storied intersection of America's pastime and its cinematic portrayal. Noah Gittell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check out our show notes for more information about Smithonian Associate Noah Gittell and his presentation titled, Baseball in the Movies.  But, we have Noah today to share insights from his extensive exploration of baseball films, including those well-loved classics and some truly fascinating but lesser-known gems that have flown under the radar.   "Baseball The Movie" isn't just about the sport; it's about the cultural phenomenon and the symbol of the American dream that baseball represents. Noah watched an impressive roster of 82 baseball movies to craft this book, discovering stories that celebrate the underdog and illuminate the sport's impact both nationally and globally.   Today, we'll learn about the films that go beyond the mainstream narratives—films that might not be household names but have contributed uniquely to the tapestry of baseball cinema. From the portrayal of historical figures and fictional heroes to the exploration of cultural shifts and personal triumphs, these films reflect the diverse ways in which baseball mirrors life. Join us as we pitch some engaging questions to Noah, exploring the making of his book, his take on the future of baseball films, and why, even in a sea of cinematic sports stories, baseball holds a special place in the heart of American culture.   So, whether you're a die-hard fan of the sport, a movie lover, or someone who cherishes rich stories and compelling discussions, this episode is for you. Let's step up to the plate with Noah Gittell on The Not Old Better Show, Smithsonian Associates Interview Series on radio and podcast. Stay tuned!   My thanks to Noah Gittell.   Noah Gittell will be appearing at Smithsonian Associates coming up, so please check out our show notes for more information about Smithonian Associate Noah Gittell and his presentation titled, Baseball i Talk About Better™ The Not Old Better Show on Radio & Podcast! Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.