The Hustler Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A cocky pool shark with a severe character flaw hustles his way to self-destruction, proving that sometimes, the only way to win is to lose… your soul, and maybe your girlfriend, too.

🍿 The Hustler: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to ‘Fast’ Eddie Felson

Eddie Felson, portrayed by Paul Newman, is a talented but flawed pool hustler who travels with his partner, Charlie, seeking out unsuspecting marks. Eddie possesses immense skill but lacks the self-discipline and character needed to compete at the highest level. His arrogance and desire to prove himself set him on a collision course with legendary player Minnesota Fats.

The Marathon Match Against Minnesota Fats

Eddie’s ambition leads him to New York City to challenge Minnesota Fats, played by Jackie Gleason. The ensuing match becomes a grueling, high-stakes marathon that tests Eddie’s physical and mental endurance. Despite initially gaining a significant lead, Eddie’s lack of control and self-destructive tendencies lead to his downfall, resulting in a devastating loss and leaving him broke and humiliated.

Descent and Relationship with Sarah Packard

Following his defeat, Eddie encounters Sarah Packard, a vulnerable and alcoholic woman, played by Piper Laurie. Their relationship becomes a refuge for two lost souls, providing temporary solace but ultimately failing to address their deeper issues. Eddie’s continued obsession with pool and his inability to commit fully to Sarah create tension and foreshadow tragedy.

Alliance with Bert Gordon

Eddie is approached by Bert Gordon, a ruthless gambler portrayed by George C. Scott, who offers to manage him and guide him to success. Bert recognizes Eddie’s potential but insists that he needs to develop character and eliminate distractions, including Sarah. Eddie’s decision to align himself with Bert marks a turning point, as he sacrifices his personal relationships for the sake of his ambition.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Eddie Felson (Paul Newman): A talented but self-destructive pool hustler seeking recognition and validation by challenging the best.
• Minnesota Fats (Jackie Gleason): The legendary and seemingly unflappable champion pool player, representing the pinnacle of success.
• Bert Gordon (George C. Scott): A ruthless gambler who recognizes Eddie’s talent and seeks to exploit him for personal gain.
• Sarah Packard (Piper Laurie): A vulnerable and alcoholic woman who forms a tragic relationship with Eddie, offering him a chance at redemption.
• Charlie Burns (Myron McCormick): Eddie’s long-time manager, who serves as a voice of reason and caution amidst Eddie’s reckless ambition.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Fast Eddie: “I’m a loser, Fats. I’m a born loser.” – Eddie’s self-deprecating remark highlights his internal struggle and inability to win, even when talented.
• Bert Gordon: “You owe me money.” – This line underscores Bert’s ruthless and parasitic nature, always looking to profit from Eddie’s talent.
• Bert Gordon: “Character. You’ve got to have character, Eddie.” – Repeatedly said by Bert, highlighting what Eddie lacks to truly succeed, beyond just skill.
• Sarah: “Eddie, you’re a pool player.” – Sarah’s simple statement encapsulates her understanding of Eddie’s identity and limitations.
• Minnesota Fats: “Fast Eddie, let’s play some pool.” – This simple invite sets the stage for the initial challenge between Fats and Eddie.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $2.125M
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $8.07K

💥 The Hustler Reviews

Personal Review

I watched ‘The Hustler’ for the first time last night, and I’m still processing it! Newman’s portrayal of Eddie Felson is just captivating. The whole atmosphere of those smoky pool halls felt so real and intense. That first match with Minnesota Fats? I was on the edge of my seat. And the relationship with Sarah? Heartbreaking. This movie hit me hard.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic American cinema”
  • “Viewers interested in character-driven dramas”
  • “Those who appreciate films exploring moral ambiguity”
  • “People interested in sports dramas with a focus on personal struggles”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Alcohol abuse”
  • “Suicide”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Mature themes”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “The Hustler is a brilliant character study set against the backdrop of smoke-filled pool halls. Newman delivers a career-defining performance, and Gleason is mesmerizing as Minnesota Fats. The film explores ambition, loss, and the price of winning with raw intensity.
• Variety: “A gripping and authentic portrayal of the pool hustling world. The film’s stark black and white cinematography adds to the gritty realism, and the performances are uniformly excellent. A must-see for fans of character-driven dramas.
• RogerEbert.com: “The Hustler is a masterpiece of American cinema. It explores the dark side of ambition and the human cost of obsession. Paul Newman’s performance is iconic, and the film’s themes resonate even today. A timeless classic.

Audience Reactions

Newman’s performance as ‘Fast Eddie’ is considered one of his best, with many viewers praising his ability to portray the character’s internal conflicts.: The film’s realistic portrayal of the pool hustling world and its exploration of complex characters are widely appreciated.

The film’s iconic black-and-white cinematography effectively captures the gritty and intense atmosphere of the pool halls.: The film’s stark and stylish visual aesthetic enhances its overall impact.

Overall Consensus: The Hustler is a critically acclaimed and influential film known for its outstanding performances, gritty realism, and exploration of complex themes. Considered a classic of American cinema.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Cinematography, Black-and-White)- 1962
2. Academy Award (Best Art Direction-Set Decoration, Black-and-White)- 1962
3. BAFTA Film Award (Best Foreign Actor)- 1962

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Paul Newman and Jackie Gleason practiced extensively to make their pool playing look authentic. Willie Mosconi, a world champion pool player, served as a technical advisor for the film.”
• “Piper Laurie took a break from acting for several years after this film, feeling disillusioned with the industry. She returned to acting in the horror film ‘Carrie’ (1976).”

🖥️ How to Watch The Hustler?

The Hustler is available for streaming rental or purchase on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check local listings for potential broadcast schedules on cable networks. While a subscription might not be necessary, renting or purchasing the film offers the most reliable viewing option. Some local libraries may also carry the DVD.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Hustler, you might like these similar films:

• The Color of Money (1986): A direct sequel to ‘The Hustler,’ reuniting Paul Newman as Eddie Felson, now mentoring a young pool player.
• Raging Bull (1980): Another film exploring self-destructive tendencies and the high cost of ambition, set in the world of boxing.
• Rounders (1998): Features a protagonist drawn back into high-stakes gambling, balancing personal relationships with the allure of the game.
• The Gambler (1974): A professor’s gambling addiction spirals out of control. A dark and gritty character study.

🛒 The Hustler Related Products

• The Hustler (Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: A pristine restoration of the film in stunning detail. Includes insightful commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, and essays that delve into the film’s themes and production. Great for collectors.
• The Hustler Movie Poster: A high-quality reproduction of the original theatrical poster. Printed on archival paper for lasting beauty. Add cinematic flair to your home theater or office.
• Pool Cue Set – Inspired by The Hustler: A professional-grade pool cue set with classic styling, reminiscent of the cues used in the movie. Crafted with precision and quality materials for optimal performance. Level up your game.
• Fast Eddie Felson T-Shirt: Show your love for Paul Newman’s iconic character with this vintage-style t-shirt. Made from soft, comfortable material. Features a classic image of Fast Eddie in action.

🎧 Soundtrack

The Hustler features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Louisville Dixieland” – performed by Dan Terry

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

John Candy as Minnesota Fats – Hilarious Skit with Kevin Kline!

Get ready for a laugh-out-loud moment as John Candy brings his inimitable energy to the legendary character of Minnesota Fats in this side-splitting skit!

How Jackie Gleason EMBARRASSED Paul Newman while filming THE HUSTLER & how he got even the next day!

Step into the world of ‘The Hustler’ and discover the surprising off-screen rivalry between Jackie Gleason and Paul Newman. This video uncovers a lesser-known chapter in Hollywood history, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of these legendary stars.

Paul Newman – The Art of Acting Cool (Spoilers)

Embark on a cinematic journey as we dissect the acting genius of Paul Newman. This video breaks down his iconic performance in ‘The Hustler,’ revealing the secrets behind his effortless charisma and undeniable screen presence.

The Greatest Movie Star You’ve Never Heard About

Uncover the hidden gem of Hollywood history in this video about George C. Scott. From his breakout role in ‘Anatomy of a Murder’ to his iconic performance in ‘The Hustler,’ this exploration reveals the remarkable life and career of an unsung cinematic giant.

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