And the Best Picture goes to....

Gangsters, floosies and grifters—“The Sting,” released in 1973 and directed by George Roy Hill, is a classic crime caper that takes place in 1930s Chicago. Starring Paul Newman as Henry Gondorff and Robert Redford as Johnny Hooker, the film follows their elaborate plot to con a dangerous mob boss out of a large sum of money.

The film’s setting and atmosphere effectively capture the essence of the 1930s, from the costumes to the soundtrack (winning Edith Head her final Oscar and Marvin Hamlisch his first) and creating a nostalgic experience for the audience. The attention to detail in recreating the period is remarkable and adds to the film’s charm, including the classic 1930’s-era Universal logo used to open the film.

“The Sting” has a great story and well-crafted plot. The elaborate scheme devised by Gondorff and Hooker is not only clever but also keeps the audience guessing and engaged throughout the film. Despite a slight lull in the second hour, you’ll need to pay close attention to the twists and turns of the story in order to ultimately understand this con with-in a con with-in a con.

Having already appeared on screen together in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969), the dynamic between Newman and Redford is another highlight of this film. Their on-screen chemistry and banter bring a sense of camaraderie and wit to the characters, which adds depth to the narrative. 

However, being that Hooker is supposed to be the younger grifter and Gondorff is the seasoned pro, I may have gone with a younger actor for Hooker, such as Jeff Bridges, being that Newman and Redford appear to be relatively close in age.  That point aside, the supporting cast, including Robert Shaw as the menacing mob boss, and Eileen Brennan as the calm and cool madam that can’t be threatened, deliver strong performances that further enrich the storytelling.

Overall, “The Sting” captivates audiences with its intricate plot, charismatic performances, and nostalgic portrayal of 1930s Chicago.