Ben WhitcombThe Sting (1973)
September 12th 2008 21:56
Paul Newman and Robert Redford were born to act in movies together. The two had already won audiences over four years earlier in 1969 with Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. They had quite a task a head of them to do that once again with The Sting, so with George Roy Hill in the director's chair(He had also directed Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid) they set out to do just that.
Robert Redford plays a con man named Johnny Hooker who's mentor is killed. Hooker then seeks to recruit a seasoned con-man by the name of Henry Gondorff(Paul Newman) to help get revenge on the man responsible. What happens next is a slick tale of con-men and revenge, with a little bit of humor thrown in too.
The film does some interesting things with chapter heading before each major development of the heist to make sure the audience can keep up with the story. The story gives us just enough to make sure we know what's going on but not too much that we see the twist coming at the end.
David S. Ward provided the actors a very good script that showcased their humor and charm. In my opinion Ward has yet to top this script. I mean the guy won an Oscar for it.
Another thing that really stands out is the authenticity of the look of the film. Set in the 30's the film recreates the look and feel of the depression era so well that it won an Oscar for Art Direction and Costume Design.
If you enjoy heist or caper movies at all you need to consider checking this movie out.
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Comment by JohnDoe
Film & TV on DVD
A classic in everyway. What a script. What a cast and the use of the "Entertainer" tune is so perfect. Still one of the best for sure. The Newman/Redford chemistry is pallpable in everything they did together.