Review of The Color of Money (1986) by David B — 29 Mar 2009
It's been awhile since I saw "The Hustler" and I'm sure a better familiarity with it would add more nuances to this. In any case, a film needs to stand on its own, right? So how does this fair? Pretty damn well.
It's highly entertaining. Scorsese keeps things moving. Maybe too much, actually. Who knew there was such a thing as a pool ball cam? Some of the camera work is a little heavy handed. The film works best when the camera calms down and focuses on the characters.
Newman is great. Just the right amount of gravitas and charm. Is this the role he should have won the Oscar for? Maybe not, but he's still great. Mastrantonio is oddly Julia Roberts-like, though still interesting.
Cruise is pretty good as the cocky young upstart. Deep down he's more of a character actor. He's always better when he has something to sink his teeth into. But going toe to toe with Newman? There's no comparison.
Fast Eddie wins at the break.
This review of The Color of Money (1986) was written by David B on 29 Mar 2009.
The Color of Money has generally received positive reviews.
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