Review: Slo Pitch, OUTtv and KindaTV

Slo Pitch cast. Photo by Danielle Blancher

Meet The Public Lass Brovaries (or, depending on how you read their jerseys, something much less savoury). They’re a classic rag-tag group of misfits in a not so classic slow-pitch beer league.

Slo Pitch has the wacky characters of Parks and Recreation with the sporty fun of The Sandlot. The who’s who of Toronto entertainment is here. Creator/cast member Karen Knox, an audience favourite from Barbelle, steps away from her it-girl act and into something a little more comfortable. And a lot weirder. Fans of NoHo Hank from Barry will love Boris, a drunk German looking for love and Canadian citizenship.

The show is perfect for OUTtv and KindaTV, the two networks you can binge the series on. The diverse cast lovingly lampoons themes and conversations in today’s queer intersectional landscape.

If social media response is any indication, a lot of people are excited to finally see themselves represented in these bite-sized episodes.

Kirsten Rasmussen is engaging in the lead role of Joanne, the team’s tender-hearted captain. In a twist on the classic misfit team trope, she’s really the only character who wants to show those other teams who’s boss. Everyone else seems content to drink beer and cavort with/lose to the Toronto Blue Gays, a slick rival team.

This sentiment is summed up perfectly by Mel, an apathetic player with a mysterious past. Mel is portrayed with easy-going charm and charisma by Amanda Cordner.

Standouts in the “would love to see more from them in Season two” category include Lane Webber as the mischievous Lee, and Wayne Burns as a very cheery bartender.

Slo Pitch is a fun romp with a lot of heart. And just try to get the pop perfection theme song, “Play The Field” by Partner out of your head.

Slo Pitch premiered July 15 on OUTtv, and will premiere on KindaTV on August 3.
Watch it here.