It's all about the acting...

Rating: 10/10 (25 August 2015)

"The Hustler" is a great example of a film with a relatively simple plot, simple sets, not a lot of action and yet it's a great film nonetheless. Why is it great? The acting, writing and direction are simply superb and are great examples to folks in the field. So, without glitz, special effects and huge casts, you can STILL make a terrific film.
The story is simple. Fast Eddie (Paul Newman) is a pool hustler. But he wants to be more--he wants to be the best there is. The best, it seems, is Minnesota Fats (Jackie Gleason) and Eddie will do almost anything to beat Fats. It's a mania...one that dogs him through most of the film.
In addition to amazing performances by Newman and Gleason, the film features particularly strong supporting performances by George C. Scott and Piper Laurie. The bottom line is that these four did a terrific job--thanks in no small part to a wonderfully written script and excellent direction. See this film.