This Game of Pool.............Makes a Great Movie

Rating: 10/10 (17 September 2012)

This is a brilliant movie. The four main actors are sensational. Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, George C. Scott and Piper Laurie were all perfect choices for their roles. Different people see this film in vastly different ways. Most people say its about a young man finding "character". Thats true, but it is also about a simple game...pool. A game...like all games that creates its own masters. It is also about two giants of the game who clash ...like gladiators...with pride and passion. Each one thinking he is number one --- each giving deep respect to his opponent. The movie contains a real soul-less gambler (Scott) who is only interested in peeling off the psychological layers of naive young men with potential. Then when they are "naked"--put huge bets on them. Winning for this guy is as exciting as yawning. The money means nothing. If someone is eliminated along the way---thats too bad. Everyone in Scotts universe is disposable. The movie is a microcosm of life...played out on a green baize table Director Robert Rossen has made an unforgettable movie.