The Hustler (1961)

The Hustler is a 1961 American CinemaScope drama film directed by Robert Rossen and written by Rossen and Sidney Carroll from Walter Tevis's 1959 novel of the same name. It chronicles the narrative of "Fast Eddie" Felson, a small-time pool hustler who aspires to join the "big league" of professional hustling and high-stakes wagering that follows. In order to beat the famed pool player "Minnesota Fats," he pits his raw skill and drives against the finest player in the country.

Newman should have won his first Academy Award for his erratic portrayal as Fast Eddie Felson, daring to portray an arrogant pool shark who elevates his game to new heights while leaving behind one who loves him. They are an irresistible force beneath the lights of the darkened pool club, teamed with the devilish manager Bert, played with volcanic wrath by George C. Scott. Newman is a force of nature, at ease in the smoky, gloomy hallways where money is exchanged and lesser players are hustled. He realizes what an arrogant idiot he has been only after he has lost the one he loves. He easily defeats the Minnesota Fats without breaking a sweat, now cool and disciplined, after recovering from broken hands.

Detailed information:
Directed by: Robert Rossen
Release date: September 25, 1961
Link to watch: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054997