Product ReviewsBaseball: A Film by Ken Burns (DVD, 2010, 11-Disc Set)

Burns strikes again

I watched this wonderful documentary a number of years ago and enjoyed it enough to but a copy of it to enjoy again and again. I love EVERYTHING Ken Burns does and we have several of his amazing programs. The ONLY thing I am disappointed in with this DVD set is that the music level is so high that it buries the narration. I was a mastering technician and manager of the mastering department for a large pre-recorded tape company back in the 69' and 70's and I would remix that master before it ever reached the street. Other than that, I love the set.

In all fairness, my surround amplifier took a dive just before I played Baseball and I have had to play it on straight stereo rather than Dolby 5.1. I have not repaired it as yet. That happens tomorrow. I hope it makes a difference.

Here are my wife's comments as well.

Good Afternoon,

I am formerly from Long Island, New York. As I child, baseball was the #1 activity. We would
play at the sandlot across the street, next to a church for hours. My brothers would kindly include me into
the game although I was a girlSmile We played for hours with other kids in the neighborhood also.

During one game, I was a pitcher. One of the batted balls landed on my forehead. Thus black eyes
for a few weeks. My mom was very patient with me.

Next door lived “Whitey Ford’s” grandma. He would visit her every so often. That was a magnificent
event. No, we did not talk to Whitey personally. The address we had lived at was on Madison Ave,
Garden City Park, New York.

Life was so uncomplicated, free, happy and safe and baseball was a huge part of it. We were happy kids.

Alma Sparling

PS: I shared this because of the Ken Burns DVD set. Oh, It is so enjoyable.

Thank you.

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"Great photos, but.....!"

I like the subject and it is well presented. But, the back-ground music is so loud that-at times-it is difficult to hear the narration. I bought this product for the history and, I would like to hear the narrator clearly. If I want music, I will purchase music DVDs and CDs (and I have). I hope that not all of the discs have such loud music on them and will be more enjoyable.Read full review...

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One of the finest documentary films ever made.

I remember seeing this documentary when it first came out in the early 90's .It was I believe Ken's first work following the Civil War. At the time I felt it was even better than the Civil War. If anything it's even better the second time around.
You don't have to be a fan of baseball, I'm not, to enjoy the film. Though you may turn out to be one after watching it. My writing skills are not adequate to explain this film, The best I could do is to point out that Ken shows the appreciation so many have for the game, the fond memories so many people have for baseball, the incredible cast of characters that included not only the players, but owners and executives as well. The film also shows the inter relationship of baseball with both society and history. I recommend this film to anyone, fan or not. 20 plus years later there's still nothing like it.Read full review...

Baseball: A Film by Ken Burns

If you are a baseball fan then this is an absolute must see! If you love baseball, then you will want to watch this many times. I made the purchase to upgrade from my VHS copy to DVD and to add the recently completed 10 inning. I am not a history nut, but I love this documentary and have watched it at least 5 times start to finish. Ken Burns, who is widely recognized as an extremely talented video historian, does an impeccable job of recording the intimate and intertwined relationship between baseball and American history. Divided into Ten 2-Hour "Innings," Burns focuses on the culture, the communities and the characters that facilitated the important role of baseball in the evolution of American culture, sportsmanship and western expansion. I cannot overstate how well done this production is - pictures, historical commentary, amazing research, it is all there. Not only is it historically accurate, but it captures the subtle importance of baseball in the development of the American psyche and the passion of those who love and romanticize the game itself. Burns satisfies the historian, the baseball nut, and a lot of people who would consider themselves neither. Again, if you love baseball, then you will love this outstanding documentary.Read full review...

A true must-see for any baseball fan and lover of history

I am only in the "seventh inning" of the film series, and just from the history standpoint of the beginning of baseball on 1839 to the 1950s.... it is a MUST have for any baseball fan. It brings you up close and personal with soooo many players, managers, executives who helped mold our national pastime to what it is today. The best thing is that this film series will be enjoyed by a hardcore baseball fan, mid-level fans and even those who are not really into sports but love great history documentaries. Baseball is a big part of American history and this film tells a great history story. Baseball lovers AND history lovers will enjoy this one! It's a no-brainer and will be a great addition to any dvd collection.Read full review...

I can't imagine any baseball fan being disappointed with this series!

This is the most complete and well designed documentary on the game of baseball throughout its history that I've seen. I thought that the first inning started out a bit slow with the very first origins of the game, but once the game was established, the following innings of the series held my interest completely! They cover their all of the legends in baseball, including players, managers, series, games, etc. Besides the history of the game, there is thoughtful and interesting commentary from famous players, sportswriters, and celebrities who are avid fans of baseball. I have an interest in history in general, and have seen other documentaries by Ken Burns. I feel that he is an absolute excellent storyteller and, being an avid baseball fan myself, this documentary is my favorite of the group. If you've been a fan of the game over the years, I very much encourage you to get this DVD set!Read full review...

Ken Burns does baseball

In my opinion, anything can Burns touches is going to be excellent. I'm also a baseball history buff and I learned things I didn't know before. It is 100% delightful and engaging. Ken Burns does a wonderful job with the Negro Leagues as well. Just buy it. Don't hesitate.Read full review...

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An asbsolute must have for every baseball fan on the planet!

This is a truly AMAZING dvd collection on the history of baseball, I dare say, unlike anything on the market today! Worth absolutely every penny you will pay. It will take endless months to soak in all of the information included in this documentary. The footage is....wow! This is the one thing in our American culture that has been time honored and remains much the same as it was in it's pre-civil war induction. Once again, Ken Burns has created yet another fantastic and detailed series of an important part of our history.Read full review...

Ken Burns Baseball Documentary

Excellent ! Ken Burns does another sensational job telling the story of baseball. From the very beginning to where we are today he sets the record straight. A thorough retelling as it relates to the game, players, teams, leagues, ownership and the politics of the times. Enlightening if your a true baseball fan.Read full review...

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Grand Slam

I bought this set for grandson who turned 10 years old. He has played in little league and loves watching baseball on television, he and his younger brother. All summer each and every weekend they are going to different parks in Maryland and Delaware playing this game. Wade plays different positions but last year started pitching. The entire family is enjoying these discs during this very cold winter here in Maryland. We love Ken Burns and he hit a home run with this set. You will learn so much if this is one of your favorite sports. Buy it for yourself or a gift, you won't regret it.Read full review...