Review of Cool Hand Luke (1967) by Josh M — 20 Jul 2009

Even going in, I expected that Cool Hand Luke would be anchored by a great performance by the late, great Paul Newman; what I didn't expect was how great the movie around Newman really was. Watching this, it's obvious what an inspiration this was for The Shawshank Redemption; it's also obvious how much better, more honest, and more affecting this is (and that's said as someone who really likes Shawshank).

Part of it, it has to be said, revolves around the film's use of religious imagery; while it's obvious that Luke is frequently put into Christ images, the film's take on religion is far more complex and thoughtful, giving the film a depth beyond a simple story of rebellion against authority.

Even so, though, the story is done magnificently, creating iconic "villains" like "the man with no eyes" and the warden. But really, it's Newman's movie, and it's doubtful anyone could have played the part the same way, creating a smirking rebel who manages to both be the untouchable hero and a deeply flawed human being.

There's no doubt that the story comes close to formula sometimes, but it's elevated by its characterizations and the way it plays with themes far darker and more thoughtful than you'd expect from the genre.