In my book I stated for the record it is the best sports film of all-time, now in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of “The Hustler”, 20th Century Fox has produced a DVD worthy of its excellence. The story of Fast Eddie Felson (Paul Newman) and his exploits with fellow pool hall gamblers is given special treatment on blu-ray.
There isn’t a shot missed with this presentation which includes a book packaging format filled with rare photos from the Fox archives.
This masterpiece of redemption features classic performances by Newman, Jackie Gleason, Piper Laurie and George C. Scott where Felson’s unbridled ambition drives him to the edge in a titanic battle to separate his pool game from his self-esteem.
Bert Gordon (George C. Scott): I don’t think there’s a pool player alive shoots better pool than I saw you shoot the other night at Ames. You got talent.
Fast Eddie: So I got talent. So what beat me?
Bert Gordon: Character.
While some of the special features come from the standard definition disc, there are some Blu-ray exclusives that have been added here:
“Paul Newman At Fox” – primarily looks at the actor’s relationship with the studio and includes looks at most of his films during his time there, and his impact on changing the studio system for fellow actors.
“Jackie Gleason: The Big Man” – similar to the Newman segment but more about his performance in this picture.
“The Real Author” – looks at writer Walter Tevis through memories from his children. The billiards beginnings are discussed and the segment includes radio interview footage from Tevis as well.
“Life in the Fast Lane” – a focus on the lead character and includes recollections from Newman and other members of the cast. Newman talks about the research he put into the film and some anecdotes from pool playing.
Other material includes a very informative audio track from a wide group- Newman, Rossen’s daughter Carol, editor Dede Allen, producer Jeff Young, assistant director Ulu Grosbard, critic Richard Schickel, Siefan Gierasch (Preacher) and host Stuart Galbraith.
“Swimming With Sharks” looks at the hustling aspect of the film
“The Inside Story” is a look at the film’s production.
“Trick Shot Analysis” and “How the Make The Shot” are two separate pieces where billiards expert Mike Massey examines and performs the shots in the film
“Hollywood’s Cool Hand” is an A&E biographical piece on Newman.
“Milestones in Cinema History” looks at the film’s history and legacy, with editor Allen discussing how she edited some sequences. There are also lots of interviews with the cast who talk about working with Rossen and each other.
