DEMOREST, Ga. — The Mason-Scharfenstein Museum of Art at Piedmont University will host the Habersham County debut of the documentary “Stalking the Big Cat of Georgia” on March 19, featuring a screening and talkback with the film’s creators.
The event will be held at the museum, 567 Georgia St. in downtown Demorest. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with the screening beginning at 6 p.m. A talkback discussion will follow at 7 p.m., along with a book signing and opportunities to purchase posters and DVDs.
The documentary explores the life and legacy of Johnny Mize, the Demorest native known as “Big Cat” and regarded as one of Major League Baseball’s most powerful hitters during the sport’s Golden Age. Mize played 15 seasons in the majors with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants and New York Yankees. He helped the Yankees win five consecutive World Series titles from 1949 to 1953 and is widely considered one of the greatest pinch hitters in baseball history.
The film draws from author Jerry Grillo’s 2024 biography of Mize, published by the University of Nebraska Press. The documentary highlights new discoveries made during Grillo’s 20-year research and writing process and places Mize’s career within the context of baseball’s segregated era, including his interactions with and respect for Black players of the time.
Featured guests for the evening include Grillo, artist Joni Mabe and director Hal Jacobs. Jacobs has produced four full-length documentaries that have aired on Georgia Public Broadcasting.
Attendance is by RSVP only, and seating is limited. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased online.
Organizers said the screening offers the community an opportunity to engage with the filmmakers and reflect on the legacy of one of Demorest’s most accomplished hometown figures.
