Review of The Sting (1973) by Michael L — 20 Jul 2009

It is truly a shame that Redford and Newman (R.I.P.) made only two movies together. What we are left with in this and "Butch and Sundance" are two enduring portraits of the ultimate in American masculinity: unbelievable good looks, wit, charm, and overall cool. When I watch these two together on screen I'm overcome with longing to be their friend, to imagine how much fun it would be to hang out with them, to wonder if any of their excellence would rub off on me.

Now that I've gotten that little bit of hero worship out, let me say a thing or two about the movie itself. Like "Butch and Sundance" it is less than perfect. The supposed revenge motivation for the sting doesn't seem quite so believable. Supporting characters are not well developed.

However, just sit back and enjoy the artfully re-created 1930's production details: the musical score, wardrobes, saloons. I even enjoy the hand illustrated titles that announce the beginning of each section of the movie ("The Con", "The Set Up", "The Sting", etc.).

Of course, enjoy the twisty plot even if it probably isn't as origianl or unpredictable as it was when "The Sting" was released.

Most of all, sit back and admire the easygoing camraderie of legends Robert Redford and Paul Newman while knowing their screen partnership will likely never be duplicated.