The Bad News Bears (1976)

In "The Bad News Bears" (1976), an aging, down-on-his-luck ex-minor leaguer, Morris Buttermaker, is reluctantly tasked with coaching a team of misfits in an ultra-competitive California little league. Faced with a motley crew of unathletic, unenthusiastic youngsters who'd rather be anywhere else, Buttermaker initially sees the role as a way to fund his drinking habit. However, as he begins to instill a begrudging sense of pride and purpose in these seemingly hopeless kids, a powerful and often hilarious underdog story unfolds, challenging the intense, win-at-all-costs culture of youth sports. This film absolutely belongs on a list of Michael Ritchie's best because it perfectly encapsulates his signature blend of cynical social commentary and surprisingly heartfelt character development. Ritchie excelled at dissecting the absurdities and pressures of American culture, and "The Bad News Bears" is a prime example, satirizing the hyper-competitive nature of Little League and the parental ambition that often fuels it. Yet, beneath the sharp wit and profanity, Ritchie grounds the film in genuine human connection, showcasing Buttermaker's transformation from a jaded cynic to a flawed but ultimately caring mentor, and the kids' journey from losers to a team that discovers self-respect. The film’s raw honesty and unflinching portrayal of flawed characters made it a groundbreaking and enduring classic.