It is said that every Nettuno boy is born with a mitt on his hand. City of Baseball follows one Italian town's surprising obsession with the American pastime. It is the story of 'La Grande Amore' - a passion that gives identity and purpose to a small seaside city. Pioneering legends, devoted supporters, and semi-professional players tell the remarkable tale of Nettuno baseball. After a forgotten tragedy of World War II, GIs taught the sport to Italian gravediggers building a war cemetery in Nettuno. Thus started a forty-year run of glory, that included constant championships, out-of-control fans, and a memorable visit by the legendary Joe DiMaggio. As the current club manager says, 'Nettuno is the story of Italian baseball, and Italian baseball is the story of Nettuno.' However, in today's TV-obsessed Italy, the Nettunese grieve at the decline of the game in its Italian cradle. City of Baseball is about a community rather than a sport, and a people who struggle and sacrifice for their great love. It is a funny, lyrical, and poignant place whose road signs proudly read, 'Welcome to Nettuno, The City of Baseball.'

Forms: Documentary, Feature
Genres: Educational, Independent, Sport, Culture