Pete and Hannah return with another installment of AFI Redux, and this time they’re stepping up to the plate for a heartfelt tribute to Robert Duvall and his unforgettable performance in the 1984 baseball classic The Natural.

Revisiting one of the most iconic sports films of the 1980s, they dive into Duvall’s nuanced portrayal of Max Mercy—the sharp-tongued sportswriter whose skepticism and eventual recognition of greatness add depth and texture to the film’s mythic narrative. Along the way, Pete and Hannah explore the movie’s timeless themes of redemption, legacy, and the enduring magic of America’s pastime.

From the soaring score to the unforgettable climactic moments under the stadium lights, this AFI Redux episode celebrates not only a cinematic classic but also Duvall’s quiet yet powerful contribution to a film that continues to inspire generations of fans.