'Million Dollar Arm' movie review - Is it a homerun?

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- "Million Dollar Arm" is based on the true story of struggling sports agent J.B. Bernstein, played by Jon Hamm, who comes up with the idea to go to India to find, train and then get someone signed to play major league professional baseball.

Alan Arkin's on board as a retired baseball scout helping find the right talent.

Eventually, Hamm returns to Los Angeles with potential baseball stars taking up residence in his home.

So while they're lessoned in baseball at USC, he gets a lesson in life, thanks in part to the wisdom of his guest house tenant, played by Lake Bell.

Hamm delivers a strong performance here. You see him struggle, you feel his pain and you watch his character find his soul.

Arkin offers the wry wit he's known for these days. Suraj Sharma, who played the title role in "Life of Pi," and Madhur Mittal, who had a role in "Slumdog Millionaire," offer up the innocence, joy and wonderment of their experience in this very different world.

The movie also features the talented Bill Paxton as Tom House, who was the pitching coach for USC at the time this story takes place.

"Million Dollar Arm" is a family-friendly, PG-rated movie.

And the best thing about it?

You root for the people here just like you'd root for your favorite team. It's an inspiring story about taking chances and dreaming big.

I think "Million Dollar Arm" is a homerun.