Directed by:
Robert RossenCinematography:
Eugen SchüfftanComposer:
Kenyon HopkinsCast:
Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie, Myron McCormick, George C. Scott, Murray Hamilton, Michael Constantine, Vincent Gardenia, Charles Dierkop (more)VOD (1)
Plots(1)
Newman is electrifying as Fast Eddie Felson, an arrogant, amoral hustler who haunts backstreet pool rooms fleecing anyone who'll pick up a cue. Determined to be acclaimed as the best, Eddie seeks out the legendary Minnesota Fats (Gleason), who's backed by Bert Gordon (Scott), a predatory gambler. Eddie can beat the champ, but virtually defeats himself with his low self-image. The love of a lonely woman (Laurie) could turn Eddie's life around, but he won't rest until he beats Minnesota Fats, no matter what price he must pay. (official distributor synopsis)
(more)Videos (1)
Reviews (3)
A good drama, but it struck me as primarily good rather than exceptionally so. Paul Newman is great here, as are Scott and Laurie. None of them are otherwise known for it, but it's really just the dark portrayal that elevates it into a good film. Man is a real problem to himself, but we all know that.
()
It's been quite a few years since I've seen this beautiful black and white film, but it has left indelible memories in me to this day. Paul Newman excels in his best film role as a champion pool player battling fate, envy and himself. The love line, Newman's unfulfilled love for a young woman slipping into alcoholism, is one of the best I've seen in a film. Those nine Oscar nominations are very well deserved.
()
Watching Paul Newman play the pyramid made me reminisce about the years I spent feeling the same things by the pool table as he did winning over Minnesota. However, with every next beer there was more courage and less winnings. Therefore, there’s nothing to complain about. A could-be-real-life movie only with a more extensive story which is not essential here. There probably doesn’t exist a better game of pool made into a movie.
()
Ads