Leaving My Past Behind (2020)

The film opens at Dodger Stadium where Lyman Liri is pitching in the ninth inning of a game that will decide whether or not the Dodgers will make the playoffs. He strikes out the last batter and celebration ensues. From there, a flashback montage of Lyman's childhood is shown, set to the song, "Leaving My Past Behind" by John Badiaco. In a series of scenes, it becomes apparent that Lyman's father is a tyrant and a womanizer, and his mother is an abused wife. Although she loves her son very much, by the time he is a teenager, she can no longer tolerate the torment. She leaves. Flash forward 25 years to Skid Row, Los Angeles, where Lyman's mother has lived all these years. From all signs, she appears happy and settled; however, she has obviously never come to terms with walking away from her son. She makes her way to Dodger Stadium that fateful night when Lyman ensured the Dodgers' playoff status. She just wants to see him one more time. However, much to her dismay, he catches a glimpse of her. When he tries to speak to her, she attempts to flee but stops short. She is obviously ashamed of her appearance. But it becomes clear that Lyman does not recognize her. Instead, he takes pity on her as a homeless woman and gives her $100. She is in shock that he doesn't know who she is. The scene fades out.