As its title implies, this video attempts to go beyond the public persona of one of major league baseball's greatest stars. Accepting Ruth as a larger-than-life figure, this 59-minute video doesn't attempt to rationalize, apologize, or analyze his behavior. Rather, it endeavors to present an unbiased account of the life of George Herman Ruth, contradictions and all.
Acting
Liev Schreiber's voice—gravelly, knowing, perfect for Ruth's contradictions.
Production
Rare archival footage that humanizes the cartoon figure.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Jean Shepherd's interviews were recorded shortly before his death, making this a bittersweet time capsule of two fading American icons.
Released during the 1998 home run chase, this doc accidentally became commentary on McGwire/Sosa's manufactured mythology versus Ruth's organic chaos.
US
