Charlie Hustle & The Matter Of Pete Rose: What To Watch If You Liked The HBO Docuseries

As a sports enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in the captivating narratives that these athletes weave, I must say, each of these documentaries offers an extraordinary journey into the lives of legends whose stories transcend the boundaries of their respective fields.

In discussing influential and debated baseball figures from the last century or the sport’s history overall, few names hold as much importance as that of Pete Rose. His complex legacy – encompassing both his accomplishments and controversies – was thoroughly explored in the four-part HBO documentary titled “Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose“. This detailed account is accessible to anyone with a Max subscription at present.

If you’re here, it’s likely you’ve already grasped the idea and are seeking more documentaries focusing on similar athletes, themes, and controversies. Rest assured, we have a list of 10 outstanding documentaries tailored just for you. Some of these are even considered among the greatest sports films ever made.

4192: The Crowning Of The Hit King (2010)

Published in 2010, Terry Lukemire’s book titled “4192: The Crowning of the Hit King” narrates the account of Pete Rose setting the record for the most hits in Major League Baseball history on September 11, 1985, a night that broke what was previously thought to be an unattainable record.

Instead of “Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose,” which delves deeply into Pete Rose’s ban from baseball and his attempts at reinstatement, this documentary, narrated by J.K. Simmons, primarily explores the significant events of that particular night. If you’re more interested in the on-field action, this is the documentary for you.

Rent/Buy 4192: The Crowning of the Hit King on Amazon.

Ken Burns’ Baseball (1994)

Ken Burns’ 1994 documentary titled “Baseball”, spanning over numerous hours, stands out as the most comprehensive, insightful, and ambitious portrayal of America’s favorite game ever shown on television. Divided into nine segments (each resembling an inning), this film delves deeply into the sport’s history, tracing its origins in the 19th century right up to 1992. It highlights significant figures such as Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron, Pete Rose, and the “Big Red Machine” Cincinnati Reds of the 1970s.

Stream Ken Burns’ Baseball on Hoopla.
Buy Ken Burns’ Baseball on Amazon.

Say Hey, Willie Mays! (2022)

If you’re eager to delve deeply into the life story, professional journey, and enduring impact of an iconic American athlete who excelled in baseball, look no further than “Say Hey, Willie Mays!”, the 2023 HBO documentary on this groundbreaking hall of famer. Directed by Nelson George, this moving and engaging film offers a heartfelt depiction of the late New York / San Francisco Giant, whose career spanning 23 seasons significantly influenced both sports and popular culture as a whole.

Despite being much shorter than “Charlie Hustle,” this powerful movie skillfully uses its 99-minute span to craft an exceptional and indelible adventure.

Stream Say Hey, Willie Mays! on Max.

The Captain (2022)

Apart from starring in some top-tier SNL sketches with athletes and making an appearance in a standout Seinfeld episode, New York Yankees great and Hall of Famer Derek Jeter was additionally highlighted in a captivating 2022 ESPN documentary series. Entitled “The Captain,” this seven-part production delves into Jeter’s journey from his youth as an aspiring baseball player to becoming the cornerstone of one of the most influential sports dynasties in American history.

The show explores the character of its subject much like how it does in “Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose”. This individual is admired by some fans, yet despised by countless others.

Stream The Captain on ESPN+.

O.J.: Made In America (2016)

One noteworthy true crime series, “O.J.: Made in America“, blends elements of sports documentaries with an in-depth examination of American society from the latter half of the 20th century. While O.J. Simpson’s career, cultural impact, and role in the infamous “trial of the century” are undeniably significant aspects of this Academy Award-winning production, it delves into topics that extend far beyond these events.

As someone who grew up during O.J. Simpson’s heyday, I have always been fascinated by his life story. The new biography that was released a decade before his passing offers a captivating and in-depth look into the man behind the myth. It delves deep into not just the public image of “The Juice,” but also explores the complex world that shaped him, revealing how his upbringing, successes, and controversies were all intertwined with societal issues of the time.

Stream O.J. Made in America on Netflix.
Buy O.J. Made in America on Amazon.

Arnold (2023)

Similar to Pete Rose, Arnold Schwarzenegger leads a life that’s far from simple. From being a renowned bodybuilder to an accomplished actor, he is one of the most acclaimed action stars of the 20th century, famous globally for his iconic phrases and box office success. However, there’s much more depth to his tale.

In the 2023 Netflix documentary series titled “Arnold,” we delve into the very essence of the legendary figure from Hollywood, gradually uncovering the man beneath the iconic persona.

Stream Arnold on Netflix.

No No: A Dockumentary (2014)

If you’re interested in vibrant personalities and extraordinary tales from 1970s baseball, I recommend checking out the documentary “No No: A Dockumentary“. Produced by Jeff Radice in 2014, this film delves into the life of Dock Ellis, a former Pittsburgh Pirates catcher who is famously known for pitching a no-hitter while under the influence of LSD. While his legendary act is captivating, the documentary goes beyond that and beautifully portrays the man behind the legend and the fascinating life he led post-retirement.

Stream No No: A Dockumentary on Prime Video.

The Last Dance (2020)

Absolutely, “The Last Dance” predominantly focuses on Michael Jordan and his six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls. However, it delves deeper into how this legendary team left an indelible mark on the culture of Chicago and the United States as a whole, much like “Charlie Hustle & the Matter of Pete Rose.” This ESPN docuseries is rich with insightful and engaging interviews featuring sports legends, and it’s intriguing to consider who has the larger ego: Pete Rose or Michael Jordan.

Stream The Last Dance on Netflix.
Buy The Last Dance on Amazon.

Once Upon A Time In Queens (2021)

As a diehard gamer, I’d highly recommend checking out one of the epic 30 for 30 documentaries titled “Once Upon a Time in Queens“. This captivating tale unfolds the journey of the 1986 World Series champion New York Mets, and the unforgettable gang of ballplayers who made their games a thrilling spectacle. The documentary masterfully intertwines on-field excitement with the enthralling backstage drama featuring legends like Darryl Strawberry, Keith Hernandez, and manager Davey Johnson. If you’re a baseball enthusiast or simply love an exhilarating yarn, this multi-part documentary is not to be missed!

Stream Once Upon a Time in Queens on ESPN+.
Buy Once Upon a Time in Queens on Amazon.

Long Gone Summer (2020)

For those who weren’t alive or old enough during Pete Rose’s time in baseball, or for those who didn’t fully appreciate his lifetime ban due to a betting scandal, many of us had the chance to experience the thrilling home run race between Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa in the summer of 1998. This race aimed at surpassing Roger Maris’ single-season record.

The 2020 ESPN documentary titled “Long Gone Summer” provides a detailed account of an extraordinary season and the aftermath of the significant steroid controversy, which has largely kept two legendary home run hitters out of the Baseball Hall of Fame. A definite must-see for any baseball enthusiast.

Stream Long Gone Summer on ESPN+.
Buy Long Gone Summer on Amazon.

2024-07-31 16:40