The Sting

Directed by: George Roy Hill

Written by: David S. Ward










There was a time when, together or apart, Robert Redford and Paul Newman could carry any film into greatness.  "The Sting" stands as the prototypical example of what they were capable of, without seeming to have to try that hard.  This movie belongs in that special category of films which are simply entertaining and magical, and I'm glad I got to see it at a special classic film screening.

The plot can be boiled down to this: Two lowly, but charming con-men decide to pull a fast one on the high-powered mobster who killed their friend.

Most of the film's charm is carried by Redford and Newman, who radiate attractiveness and allure (though there is a lot of doubt as to how realistic they might be compared to real con-men - but I digress).  Both actors are at the top of their game and bring their characters to life without much effort.  There's a lot that can be said about these two, but I'd rather you just experience it for yourself - it's truly amazing.

Robert Shaw also deserves credit for bringing the villainous card-cheating mob boss Lonnegan to life.  He serves as the perfect foil for the heroes without over-playing the part.  It's impossible for me to imagine this movie without him, perhaps someone else in his place.  He is just nasty and mean enough to earn the viewer's disdain, but not so cruel or awful as to be off-putting.

There are enough twists and turns to keep the story moving forward, and enough moments where a con is revealed to make it worth watching.  There are even a few "cons" pulled on the audience, but I won't spoil those here.  The movie does drag a bit in the middle, as the anti-heroes slowly set up their foil for his comeuppance, but the nature of the set-up necessitates this somewhat lengthy dry period.  When the con is played out, though, it's totally worth the wait.

Of course, no review of "The Sting" would be official without mentioning the background music.  The ragtime piano music helps to really set the film in its time period (not necessarily the most realistic - but still).  In fact, once you've seen the film, it's basically impossible to think of the movie and not get the music stuck in your head again.

"The Sting" is a classic movie, with great performances, great music, and a great story.  It's great, all around.