Review of The Hustler (1961) by Kevin R — 23 Nov 2013
No one could make that shot and you know it. Not even a lucky lush.
A pool hall hustler down on his luck meets a woman, who is a bit eccentric, but loves him the way he needs to be loved. He runs into numerous types in his line of work, from a man that destroys his confidence, to a man that destroys his face, to a man that tries to build him up and profit from his skill sets. Can the love of his life hold onto to him through this wild rollercoaster lifestyle?
"You always drink this much so early in the morning?".
"You always ask so many questions?".
Robert Rossen, director of Mambo, Johnny O'Clock, Body and Soul, The Brave Bulls, Alexander the Great, Island in the Sun, Lilith, and They Came to Cordura, delivers The Hustler. The storyline for this film is amazing and reminded me of a better version of the Cincinnati Kid. The ups and downs of the main character's life were compelling and the acting was first rate. The cast includes Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie, and George C. Scott.
"You got talent.".
"So what beat me?".
"Character.".
I DVR'd this picture off Encore because it starred the infamous Paul Newman and I had never seen it. I can say it was awesome and a very dramatic and compelling storyline. I loved this move from beginning to end and this is definitely one of Newman's better pictures. This is a must see and is definitely worth adding to your DVD collection.
"I don't rattle, kid. Just for that I'll beat you flat.".
Grade: A.
This review of The Hustler (1961) was written by Kevin R on 23 Nov 2013.
The Hustler has generally received very positive reviews.
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