Al Stump is a famous sports-writer chosen by Ty Cobb to co-write his official, authorized 'autobiography' before his death. Cobb, widely feared and despised, feels misunderstood and wants to set the record straight about 'the greatest ball-player ever,' in his words.
Acting
Tommy Lee Jones disappears into Cobb's volcanic narcissism.
Writing
Shelton's script dares to make its subject irredeemable.
Production
Period details feel lived-in, not costume-shop.
Director
Ron Shelton
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real Al Stump later admitted he fabricated huge portions of Cobb's 'autobiography,' making this film about lying about lies.
Released the same year as 'The Lion King,' this bombed spectacularly—America wasn't ready to deconstruct its sports heroes yet.
US
