Start stretching those hamstrings, kids, because the Oscar race has begun. Only one word can sum up all that The Benchwarmers bring to the screen, brilliance. The heartwarming story of a trio of aspiring athletes trying to succeed in the competitive sport of elementary school baseball is sure getting critics buzzing.

Rob Schneider, known for his notable performances in such respected films as Deuce Bigalow Male Gigolo and The Hot Chick, returns to once again prove his finely tuned acting abilities in his rendition of Gus. Schneider is joined by fellow screen geniuses David Spade and Jon Heder as Richie and Clark, respectively. Viewers will recognize Spade as Joe Dirt, and who could forget Heder’s moving performance in the modern classic, Napoleon Dynamite. In a flawless collaborative effort, Schneider, Spade, and Heder perfectly capture the essence of a group of immature thirty-something year olds who are not quite ready to accept the responsibilities of adulthood.

The lifelong friends share a passion for baseball but spent most of their childhood years warming the bench. They finally get the chance to live their dream of playing the game when they rescue Nelson (Max Prado), a nerdy but filthy rich kid, from a group of bullies. In a twist of Hollywood genius, Nelson’s father Mel (Jon Lovitz) offers the underdogs the deal of a lifetime. He will finance “Mel’s Tournament of Little Baseballers and Three Older Guys.” The winner of the competition will receive the greatest stadium ever built.

With a timeless story, magnificent cinematography, clever writing, and noteworthy acting, The Benchwarmers, which hits theaters on April 7th, is sure to attract much deserved critical acclaim and become a fan favorite of more than one generation.