The Hustler (1961)

This is not really about pool although it's mainly set in seedy poolhalls. It's about character, or the lack of it, and the search for it, as cocky hustler Newman (as charismatic as ever) learns the hard way that there is a cost to everything. Laurie is outstanding as his lush of a girlfriend, and Scott suitably oily as the promoter who takes him under his evil wing. But it's Rossen's eye for sordid detail and burned out lives which is what really catches the eye here.

What a fantastic film this is! From start to finish my attention was fully on this movie! The performances were just superb Paul Newman shows why he will remain one of the biggest film legends. There was not a bad bit of acting and being in black and white just added to the films atmosphere!The actual pool matches are fantastic(especially with Minnesota Fats,played by the great Jackie Gleason). This film at times is sad and little bleak but still very gripping and builds up to a brilliant ending! i cannot fault this movie an outright Classic which just uses brilliant acting and dialogue to keep you gripped!Also on the bonus special features has a great little few lessons on how to do the trick shots/or difficult shots in pool that were in the movie! which i thought was something little different .

Although dated this is a very good movie and deserves its reputation. Newman is superb and the movie keeps the atmospheric feel throughout.