Review of The Hustler (1961) by Gary G — 22 Feb 2010

There is so much going on in this film it is difficult to digest on one viewing. The cinematography of the film is outstanding and the way in which the director framed and composed his shots was incredible.

It almost seemed as if each and every shot and sequence was planned and executed to the slightest detail. It is the acting and the character study driven script that make the film memorable and powerful.

This film can be seen as a benchmark for the many social-psychological realist films of the era. The performances by each actor in the film are simple, elegant and powerful. Paul Newman is incredible.

I really want to watch it again to be able to truly digest what the film has to offer.