Review of The Hustler (1961) by Gavin S — 31 Jul 2009

Paul Newman is just cool. One of the few who didn't need to act that way to be that way. But on top of it, he gives a great performance as Fast Eddie, the poolshark with all the skills but not the character.

Piper Laurie plays crazy and drunk very well, disturbed woman for sure. George C. Scott, that guy is just intensity, great as a master manipulator who takes Eddie on to hustle for him. And finally,the great Jackie Gleason, who although only in 2 scenes of the movie, is stellar, graceful, calm, cool and collected.

I get the feeling Newman may have had some of it rub off on him. Fantastic acting performances, had this been done with lesser actors it wouldn't be a classic.