Movie: The Zen of Bobby V
On May 1st, I attended the Tribeca Film Festival screening of The Zen of Bobby V, a film that documents a season in the life of former Mets manager, Bobby Valentine.
Three young directors from NYU followed Valentine around for all of last season, and were able to show how much of a baseball, and pop icon he has become. He is recognizable everywhere, and is often mobbed by fans. Between all of his many endorsements, he finds time to manage Benny Agbayani, and the Chiba Lotte Marines of Japan’s Pacific League.
The film also highlights Valentine’s determination to keep quality players in Japan since many are leaving for the potential riches of MLB. He likens Japanese baseball to the Negro leagues in regards to how they were once very popular, but eventually forced into extinction when the best players left for more money.
The few Q&A segments with Valentine give great insight to his perspective on life, and baseball, so I wish there were more of them, but overall it is a must-see for any Bobby V. fan.
The directors were in attendance and said the following about his popularity overseas:
“There is no one you can compare him to here in the states in terms of popularity…he is more popular there than any major league player, or manager is here by alot.”
The film will be aired tomorrow night at 9 pm on ESPN 2.
