USA,
1961, 134 min
(Alternative: 130 min)
Directed by:
Robert RossenCinematography:
Eugen SchüfftanComposer:
Kenyon HopkinsCast:
Paul Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie, Myron McCormick, George C. Scott, Murray Hamilton, Michael Constantine, Vincent Gardenia, Charles Dierkop (more)VOD (2)
Plots(1)
Newman is electrifying as Fast Eddie Felson, an arrogant, amoral hustler who haunts backstreet pool rooms fleecing anyone who'll pick up a cue. Determined to be acclaimed as the best, Eddie seeks out the legendary Minnesota Fats (Gleason), who's backed by Bert Gordon (Scott), a predatory gambler. Eddie can beat the champ, but virtually defeats himself with his low self-image. The love of a lonely woman (Laurie) could turn Eddie's life around, but he won't rest until he beats Minnesota Fats, no matter what price he must pay. (official distributor synopsis)
(more)Awards
- Winner
- Nominations
Academy Awards
- 1962 - Eugen Schüfftan (Best Cinematography (Black-and-White))
- 1962 - Best Art Direction-Set Decoration (Black-and-White)
- 1962 - Best Motion Picture of the Year
- 1962 - Robert Rossen (Best Achievement in Directing)
- 1962 - Paul Newman (Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role)
- 1962 - Piper Laurie (Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role)
- 1962 - Jackie Gleason (Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role)
- 1962 - George C. Scott (Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role)
- 1962 - Robert Rossen, Sidney Carroll (Best Adapted Screenplay)
British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA)
- 1962 - Best Film
- 1962 - Paul Newman (Best Foreign Actor)
- 1962 - Piper Laurie (Best Leading Actress)
Golden Globes
- 1962 - Paul Newman (Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama)
- 1962 - George C. Scott (Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture)
- 1962 - Jackie Gleason (Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture)
New York Film Critics Circle Awards
- 1961 - Robert Rossen (Best Director)
- 1961 - Paul Newman (Best Actor)
- 1961 - Piper Laurie (Best Actress)