(MCT) — “Trouble With the Curve” is an absolute home run, the total package of charming romantic comedy, poignant family drama and superb acting. It’s further proof that Clint Eastwood, now nearing his sixth decade onscreen, just improves with age. Unlike his old-school action-star cohorts who brand themselves “expendables” in trivial paycheck roles, Eastwood plays big three-dimensional parts in substantial, audience-pleasing films.

Eastwood gives a wonderful performance as Gus Lobel, a gruff, widowed, increasingly frail talent scout for the Atlanta Braves. He’s a proud relic from a bygone era. His vision is failing, and he’s a throwback in today’s “Moneyball” world of laptop spreadsheets and player-performance algorithms. His instincts for the human dimensions of the game are still top-notch. His relationship with his neglected daughter Mickey (Amy Adams), a no-nonsense attorney, not so much.

When Gus’ best friend (John Goodman) persuades her to take a break and help Gus on a crucial recruiting trip, we can see the film’s blueprint. That it plays out just as we expect in no way diminishes the satisfaction it provides.