If you’re the kind of person who finds transcendence at the crossroads of aesthetics and athletics, imagine for a moment a gallery of baseball’s finest moments, each painstakingly captured on canvas. This is the life work of Dick Perez, an artist whose brushstrokes have immortalized some of the most legendary figures in the sport’s history. Perez’s illustrious career and unique contributions to baseball art come alive in the new documentary, The Diamond King.
The documentary, now streaming on major platforms like Apple TV, Prime Video, Google TV, and Kinema, isn’t merely a visual biography—it’s an immersive expedition into the canvas of baseball history. Produced by The McCaw and Votiv, The Diamond King draws you into the heart and soul of Perez’s journey from his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to his transformative years in the culturally rich borough of Harlem, New York, where baseball and art first intersected for him like fate meeting destiny.
Narrated by the smooth yet engaging voice of John Ortiz, known for his roles in television hits like “Will Trent” and “Bad Monkey,” the film weaves intimate interviews and heartfelt narratives. Friends, family, and artistic comrades, alongside Perez himself, provide the oral tapestry that complements Perez’s visual masterpieces. The film captures the essence of an artist whose creative vision has become almost as iconic as the baseball legends he paints.
Perez gained notoriety in the 1980s through a groundbreaking partnership with Donruss, where baseball cards were elevated far beyond mere collectibles. The Diamond Kings series turned trading cards into tiny portals of visual art, so revered they almost demanded hushed admiration. These portraits added an artful sheen to the rough-and-tumble world of baseball and have hung in both private collections and major exhibitions across the globe, a testament to their transcendent appeal.
Perez’s artistry is marked by a distinctive style that expertly marries photographic realism with poignant emotional depth, capturing more than just athletic prowess—he reveals the human spirit that underscores every stat sheet. Each painting is more than a likeness; it’s a heartfelt grasp of baseball’s rich and textured legacy. As you watch The Diamond King, you’re invited to appreciate not just Perez’s art, but also the stories and souls behind each stroke.
Acclaimed baseball writer Steve Kopian from Unseen Films captures the film’s essence succinctly: “This film is so good that I suspect it will end up on endless repeat on the MLB channel for years to come.” It’s a glowing endorsement that underscores how the film resonates, not just within art and baseball circles but also with anyone who understands the power of passion and craftsmanship.
For those intrigued by the premise, a tantalizing preview is available in the form of The Diamond King trailer. Interested viewers are encouraged to visit The Diamond King Movie website to rent or purchase the film. Here, they can also delve into an array of exclusive prints, posters, cards, and other memorabilia from Perez’s expansive collection, a nod to those who wish to hold a piece of baseball history in their hands.
The Diamond King is another feather in the cap for The McCaw and their talented director, Marq Evans, who are known for storytelling that captivates and educates. Their previous works include “Claydream” (2022)—an ode to the Claymation legend Will Vinton, and “The Glamour & The Squalor” (2016)—a documentary detailing the impact of Seattle DJ Marco Collins on the grunge movement. Each film peels back layers to reveal stories that are as enlightening as they are entertaining.
Whether baseball is the thread that has stitched the fabric of your life or you’re simply someone who appreciates the symphony of color and movement, The Diamond King is more than just a must-watch; it’s an odyssey through an iconic body of work that changed how we see the sport. Grab some popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and let the imagery unfold. The Diamond King ensures that for an hour-and-a-half, you’re not just a spectator—you’re part of the narrative, basking in the glow of genius as legendary athletes spring to life from the canvas, one brushstroke at a time.
