You Gotta Believe (2024) is an inspirational sports drama based on the true story of the 2002 Fort Worth Westside All-Stars Little League baseball team. The narrative centers on coach Jon Kelly (Greg Kinnear) and his best friend, assistant coach Bobby Ratliff (Luke Wilson), whose son Robert plays on the team. After a challenging season, the team unexpectedly earns a spot in the Little League World Series. Their journey becomes even more poignant when Bobby is diagnosed with terminal melanoma, leading the team to dedicate their season to him. With renewed determination, the players, under Jon’s guidance, overcome personal and athletic challenges, culminating in a record-breaking 11-inning game that, despite ending in a loss, cements their legacy in Little League history.

The film explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and the impact of community support during adversity. While the real-life story offers a compelling foundation, some critics feel the movie relies heavily on standard sports drama tropes and lacks depth in character development. Despite these critiques, “You Gotta Believe” delivers a heartfelt narrative that resonates with audiences, highlighting the enduring bonds formed through sports and the significance of believing in something greater than oneself.