CIFF Classic Film “The Natural”

If you’re following the smokin’ hot San Diego Padres these days, then you understand why Coronado Island Film Festival couldn’t resist bringing you the beloved 1983 baseball classic, “The Natural,” as its monthly Classic Movie selection for August.

See this inspiring film as it was meant to be seen: on the big screen at Coronado’s Village Theatre. Doors open at 5 p.m. for complimentary adult beverages, followed at 5:30 by a vintage cartoon and the feature presentation. Tickets are $15 and are on sale now at coronadofilmfest.com.

The stellar cast includes Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, Glenn Close, Kim Basinger, Wilford Brimley, Barbara Hershey, Robert Prosky, and Richard Farnsworth. The film is based on Bernard Malamud’s 1952 novel and was directed by Academy Award-winning director Barry Levinson (“Rain Man,” 1988).

It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Glenn Close.

Film critics have noted that, unlike most Hollywood actors who have starred as baseball players down through the years, Robert Redford as Roy Hobbs in the 1983 classic “The Natural,” actually looks the part!

Redford, who celebrated his 88th birthday on August 18, was 47 when he filmed “The Natural,” portraying Hobbs at ages 19 and 35. Too old for the part, yes, but his boyish good looks and genuine athletic ability make it all work.