Rating of
3.5/4
Great film
Ichabod Crane - wrote on 03/23/09
A very interesting and effective film with a how bunch of great performances. The film is about pool but at the same time it is not. It mostly is about pool hustling actually and the characters involved with that and the different levels of people involved. The whole story was very interesting to see unfold even though I think it could have been trimmed slightly because I felt a certain section with the Hustler and his girl friend prodded on for just a bit too long. It was interesting though none less and well done in every way possible.
Oscar Nominee Best Actor Paul Newman 5/5- Newman is incredibly strong as Fast Eddie Felson. He plays Eddie perfectly with all his angers and insecurities being completely realistic, he never gives off a false moment in the film. He has a lot of different ways he needs to be in different scenes and shows a great range here.
Oscar Nominee Best Supporting Actor Jackie Gleason 5/5- Gleason creates an unbeatable presence as Minnesota Fats, and is cannot be forgotten in the part. Despite his limited use I remembered him and remembered him well. A side note that was enjoyable for me was seeing Gleason as such a confidant and tough character opposed to Ralph Kramden the complete opposite.
Oscar Nominee Best Supporting Actor George C. Scott 5/5- I would give it to Gleason but Scott is not a slouch either. He gets more screen time and uses well as the gambler Burt. He too is effective and has great presence in his scenes but Burt not quite as Memorable as Fats, and I think Fats had the greater chance of being forgotten.
