A gritty, atmospheric neo-noir drama exploring the dark underbelly of ambition. Through the smoky haze of pool halls, it captures the tragic collision of raw talent and moral emptiness, using the billiards table as a battleground for the soul.
The Hustler
"They called him Fast Eddie. He was a winner. He was a loser. He was a hustler."
Director:
Robert Rossen
Cast:
Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie, George C. Scott, Myron McCormick
Drama
Romance
Budget:
$2,000,000
Box Office:
$7,600,000
The Hustler - Easter Eggs & Hidden Details
Easter Eggs
Willie Mosconi Cameo
The man holding the stakes during the big match between Eddie and Fats is Willie Mosconi, the greatest pool player of the era and the film's technical advisor.
The Carnation Continuity Error
In one shot during the game with Fats, the negative was flipped to make a shot work, causing the carnation on Jackie Gleason's lapel to jump from his left to his right side.
Jake LaMotta Cameo
Famous boxer Jake LaMotta appears as a bartender. This adds to the gritty, authentic texture of the film's sporting underworld.