In Eephus, Baseball Is a Metaphor for Life, But It’s Also Just Life

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Although I’m not particularly fond of baseball (I’ve given it my best shot), I find myself appreciating movies based on the sport. There’s something about the game that mirrors life itself – the missed opportunities and fleeting successes, the constant struggle between taking a big risk or playing it safe. Carson Lund’s latest film, “Eephus“, captures this essence beautifully. Set during a local baseball game on a crisp autumn afternoon, it’s a thoughtful exploration of time passing. As you immerse yourself in its calm pace, you might find that what seems like just an afternoon feels like a lifetime has gone by.

In the movie Eephus, the diverse characters make their entrances at Soldiers Field, a quaint New England park for the game. The group consists of individuals ranging from the elderly to the young, some clumsy and overweight, others agile and precise. A few take the game with utmost seriousness, while others seem barely present. Some are highly organized, while another character is so late he has to sprint from his car to the plate. However, they don’t quite stand out individually. Instead, this motley crew serves as the film’s main protagonist, perhaps sharing that role with the setting itself. As the leaves change colors, the game unfolds under skies of blue and fluffy clouds, with vibrant autumn foliage in the background. The scenery takes on a majestic quality as twilight approaches and the temperature cools.

As the gentle fading of daylight mirrors the gradual disappearance of a cherished pastime, Soldiers Field is set to close and transform into a school. This marks the final game these players will ever experience on this field. With the nearest alternative field being distant and malodorous, many are realizing that this could be their last baseball game ever. As the day unfolds, some start pondering their leisure options post-game. Lund subtly hints that for these men, this game might be their last communal activity in a world where such spaces and activities are increasingly scarce. Perhaps this fear is what causes their initial panic when it seems one team may have to forfeit due to a shortage of players.

In simpler terms, “the eephus” in the title refers to an unusual pitch thrown by a baseball player that appears fast but moves slowly, catching the batter off guard. This unexpected pitch is emphasized comically in the movie, with close-ups and slow motion shots making it seem like a mysterious, slow-moving object. Despite its obvious symbolism, the film still manages to be both amusing and touching – much like the overall appeal of the movie itself.

The metaphor, though poignant, is almost a misleading clue. As Eephus unfolds, its deeper meanings fade, and it becomes more about the straightforward experience of sharing time with others – learning about them, joking with them, and engaging in their company. This revelation is the film’s most captivating secret; we search for symbolism while missing out on the beauty of everyday life. We approach Eephus seeking a metaphor for existence, but what we encounter instead is life itself.

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2025-03-08 00:16