The documentary "Who Killed the Montreal Expos?" is a powerful and emotional journey that explores the demise of a beloved baseball team and the impact it had on a city. As a baseball enthusiast and tour supervisor at Wrigley Field, I feel a deep connection to this story, as I often encounter fans who wear the Expos' logo with a broken heart.
Jean-François Poisson's Netflix documentary, which premiered at the Festival Nouveau Cinéma de Montréal, takes us on a whirlwind ride through the history of the Expos. It's a film that leaves you with more questions than answers, and that's where the intrigue begins.
The Expos' journey began in 1968, when Charles Bronfman brought Major League Baseball to Montreal. From the start, they faced challenges, and as the years progressed, the team's struggles intensified. The rise in player salaries, exploding television contracts, and the weakening Canadian dollar created an uneven playing field for the Expos.
But here's where it gets controversial... The team's president, Claude Brochu, was entrusted with finding a solution. He formed an innovative investment group, but this move backfired, causing tension with the co-owners. Despite these challenges, the Expos had a promising future with Felipe Alou as manager and stars like Pedro Martinez and Larry Walker emerging. However, a strike dashed their World Series dreams.
Poisson's film highlights the complex web of factors that led to the Expos' downfall. It's a story of backstabbing in the boardroom, failed attempts to secure a publicly funded stadium, and the arrival of new owners who turned out to be predators. The business of baseball takes center stage, revealing how it's not just a game but a high-stakes financial battle.
The documentary features captivating interviews with key figures, including the beloved mascot Youppi! and reporter Tom Verducci, who acts as a knowledgeable referee. Former players like Orlando Cabrera describe the organization as "toxic," providing a frank insight into the power dynamics at play.
And this is the part most people miss... While the film focuses on the business side, it leaves out crucial details about the players and their impact. The Expos had an incredible minor league system, drafting future Hall of Famers like Andre Dawson and Gary Carter. How did they achieve such success? Unfortunately, the documentary doesn't delve into this aspect.
Despite its shortcomings, "Who Killed the Montreal Expos?" is a must-watch for baseball fans and anyone interested in the business of sports. The final home game footage will leave you with a lump in your throat, as you witness the raw emotions of fans and reporters. Baseball is more than a game; it's a way of life, and its absence leaves a gaping hole.
As the film concludes, you're left hoping for a spring revival, a second chance for the Expos to return and bring joy to their dedicated fans once again.
