The Sting

Release Year: 1973
Director: George Roy Hill

Review: I love a good con, and I don’t think there is one more intense and engaging than in ‘The Sting’. We’re presented with a small-time grifter Henry Gondorff (Robert Redford), who is out for revenge after his long-time partner gets murdered. He joins up with the notorious con artist Johnny Hooker (Paul Newman) to pull the ultimate con on the man responsible for his friends death.

What is remarkable about the film is how unwaveringly cunning it is. Despite the fact nearly the entire movie is just the con unfolding with little outside strife, it is still gripping and intense. The audience gets the same view as the mark. Details are withheld and we're left to sort out whats part of the con and what isn't. Every scene is another slick step in the intricate con and is fascinating to watch play out.

Paul Newman plays cool like no other. Despite how dicey the sting may get, it never seems out of his control. Watching Newman work, you get a sense you are getting a glimpse into the life of a true master of his profession. Whether he is scamming a poker game or plotting a massive con, he is always is five steps ahead of everyone else.

Everyone likes it when the bad guy gets what’s coming to him. ‘The Sting’ takes this concept and plays out in an extended and dramatic fashion. Every moment seems to click into place effortlessly, without a dull moment. As the credits roll, you can’t help but smile to yourself and admire the perfect con.

Rating: 4.5/5