The Catcher Was a Spy

            This "based on a true story" Indie drama tells the little known story of Morris "Moe" Berg, a 15 year major league baseball catcher, who became a spy for the U.S. in the early days of World War Two.

            In an unusual dramatic turn, Mr. Berg is played by Paul Rudd. Mr. Rudd's quirky style serves him well as Moe was an odd and enigmatic character. A Jewish baseball player who spoke seven languages fluently and at least three more adequately, he earned extra money appearing on TV game shows putting his high intelligence to the test.  He was single his whole life and while there were rumors of homosexuality, Moe never publicly acknowledged it.

            There are a minimal amount of baseball scenes once Moe is recruited by the OSS (the organization that later became the CIA). The majority of the film focuses on his first mission, to learn if Germany was close to making an atomic bomb. Directed by Ben Lewin, the film races along, barely stopping to catch its breath. Clocking in at a bit more than 90 minutes, this is a rare case where less editing and more story would have really made a difference. Whether it's the script, direction or combination of both, we learn very little of this American hero. The story teases us with so many plot points that are never really explored.

             A terrific cast is wasted in barely more than cameos. Besides Mr. Rudd, the film also stars Jeff Daniels, Sienna Miller, Mark Strong, Guy Pearce, Paul Giamatti, Tom Wilkinson, and in a rare appearance, Giancarlo Giannini.  

             Moe Berg was a fascinating character but unfortunately, the film doesn't do him justice and only leaves you wanting to learn more about the man.