Review of The Hustler (1961) by Benjamin X — 10 Nov 2008
Unforgettable first-rate character study and riveting drama of a drifting loner, Fast Eddie Felson(Newman in a starmaking performance), whose talent for shooting pool is forsaken by his self-destructive behavior--alcoholism, isolation from others, and a superficial cockiness.
It takes a tragic, poetic series of events involving an equally fragile woman with whom Felson gets involved with and a slimy, snakelike, callous gambler who tries to claim him as a client. Rossen filmed this movie in such a structure that evokes a timeless quality; it doesn't feel like an early 60s story but one that could take place any time.
Brilliant camerawork and sets won Oscars--and the four principal actors were all nominated deservingly. Piper Laurie is unconventional and believable at the same time; Scott is slinkily powerful as the villainous stakesholder; Gleason is charming and graceful as a champion pool player with character.
A great film that surpasses the flavor of time and place and goes a little deeper.
This review of The Hustler (1961) was written by Benjamin X on 10 Nov 2008.
The Hustler has generally received very positive reviews.
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