Sympathy for the Devil: What a Character

Rating: 9/10 (20 September 2005)

In this and Rossen's "All the King's Men," professional success was depicted as a dubious benefit of a devil's bargain, with many unintended consequences. "The Hustler" may have also been intended as a depiction of labor/management relations, so "character" may be synonymous with swallowing your pride and submitting to "the man." Of course, at the time this was made, some still thought Communism was a viable alternative. For those of us who aren't political scientists, these films also offer great stories (from great novels), scripts, acting, and direction. You may have to go along to get along, or you can try to go your own way. It doesn't pay as well, but there may be fewer costs.