They called him Fast Eddie. He was a winner. He was a loser. He was a hustler.|Sep. 25, 1961|United States|134 Min.|n/A
Genre: Drama
Description: The Hustler, a 1961 film, follows the journey of “Fast” Eddie Felson, a small-time pool hustler, as he travels across the country with his partner, Charlie. Eddie aims to challenge the legendary pool player, “Minnesota Fats.” Upon arriving at Fats’ pool hall, Eddie confidently declares his intention to win $10,000 that night. The two agree to play straight pool for $200 per game. Initially trailing, Eddie makes a comeback and eventually leads by $1,000. He proposes increasing the bet to $1,000 per game, and Fats agrees. Seeking an edge, Fats sends someone to fetch professional gambler Bert Gordon. Eddie’s confidence soars as he builds an $11,000 lead, but Charlie urges him to quit while ahead. Eddie refuses, insisting the game ends only when Fats concedes. After a grueling 25-hour session fueled by bourbon, Eddie loses nearly all his winnings, ending up with just $200. He leaves half of it with Charlie and departs.
Later, Eddie meets Sarah Packard, an alcoholic college student with a limp, who is financially supported by her father. Their paths cross again at a bar, and though Sarah initially hesitates to let Eddie into her life, they eventually develop a connection. Eddie takes up residence in a boarding house and continues hustling for modest stakes. When Charlie tracks him down, he tries to convince Eddie to return to the road, but Eddie refuses, determined to challenge Fats once more. A confrontation reveals that Charlie withheld a portion of their earnings, leaving Eddie furious. He accuses Charlie of being a fearful old man and cuts ties with him.
The Hustler is a gripping tale of ambition, downfall, and redemption set in the world of high-stakes pool hustling.
Cast director: Robert Rossen
Cast actor: Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie, George C. Scott, Myron McCormick, Murray Hamilton, Michael Constantine, Stefan Gierasch, Jake LaMotta, Vincent Gardenia
Original name: The Hustler