TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The documentary "HERO! HITO!" (冠軍之路), chronicling Team Chinese Taipei's journey in the 2024 WBSC Premier 12 baseball tournament, surpassed NT$57.88 million (around US$1.84 million) at the Taiwan box office on Monday (Jan. 19), distributor Activator Co., Ltd. (牽猴子股份有限公司) announced. The film, which captures Taiwan's national baseball team's hard-fought tournament performance, has continued to garner positive reviews since its release. The documentary has drawn both baseball enthusiasts and newcomers to theaters across the island.
Chi Cheng (紀政), the first Asian woman to win an Olympic track and field medal, shared her thoughts on the documentary, emphasizing the enduring value of an athlete's spirit. The Taiwanese sports icon noted that sports unite people, enhance international visibility, and promote individual well-being, contributing positively to society. Chi's endorsement of the film highlights the documentary's broader appeal beyond baseball fans to sports enthusiasts across Taiwan.
The film's special post-screening event last weekend featured a surprise appearance by Chinese Professional Baseball League (CPBL, 中華職棒), Taiwan's top professional baseball league, star Chen Kuan-yu (陳冠宇). Chen expressed how revisiting the thrilling moments of the games through the documentary was particularly moving for him as a player. He shared his perspective with young fans aspiring to be baseball players, highlighting the hard work and daily training necessary to seize crucial moments in the sport. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31.5)