D.C. Cab

Rating: R

Movie Release Date: December 16, 1983

DVD Release Date: March 1, 2005

Plot 411: A cab company of delinquents bands together to save one of their own.

Review: This is another one of my co-worker's favorite films, and I gotta agree with him that this is an underrated gem. Adam Baldwin plays Albert, the son of a vet who served with Harold (Max Gail). He comes north to work for Harold at his cab company. The company is barely holding on and its drivers are a bunch of misfits. The drivers include Samson (Mr. T), Tyrone (Charlie Barnett), Dell (Gary Busey), Ophelia (Marsha Warfield), Bob (Bill Maher), Xavier (Paul Rodriguez) and Buddy and Buzzy (Peter and David Barbarian). Despite being with the company for many years, the drivers all dream of their big break someday. With little respect for their job or boss, the drivers simply drift through life doing as they please. However, when Albert and some children are kidnapped, the motley crew joins forces to save their new friend. The movie is classic '80s fare. I mean, c'mon. Mr. T? Can it get better than that? Well, my friend. Let me just tell you that it can . . . and does! This movie is downright funny - from the wardrobe to the hairstyles to the lines. It's unique and completely the best of the cheesy '80s. I am also convinced, after viewing this film, that Busey's act was not an act. It was a portrayal of his real self 25 years before he went on Celebrity Rehab. How could people not recognize the signs?

Watch It: To see Mr. T's pimped out cab.

Skip It: If the thought men in brightly colored clothes gives you the shivers.

Rookie Of The Year

Rating: PG

Movie Release Date: July 7, 1993

DVD Release Date: January 29, 2002

Plot 411: When his broken arm heals with tendons that are too tight, a boy gets his chance to pitch fast balls in the big leagues.

Review: This is a great underdog story about a clumsy boy who loves the Cubs and his chance love for baseball. Henry, played by Thomas Ian Nicholas, isn't exactly the best athlete on his Little League team, but when his broken arm miraculously heals allowing him to throw baseballs at over 100 miles per hour his dreams come true. This ability helps him sign on with the struggling Chicago Cubs team - first as a PR trick, then as a real player. The movie also stars Gary Busey as a veteran pitcher who grudgingly takes Henry under his wing. It's amazing to see him in this movie and compare it with his appearances on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew. It's like watching two completely different people. Bringing some comedy to the movie is Daniel Stern, who also directs this film, as the Cub's pitching coach. The plot is unique and well done, making you root for the little guy. It's inspirational message applies to everyone in their quest to follow and live out their dreams. With the exception of The Sandlot, I think this was one of the best sports movies of the early 1990s.

Watch It: If you're a Little Leaguer with big dreams for some motivation and inspiration.

Skip It: If your idea of a sports movie is more like Varsity Blues.