Widely acclaimed and rated as one of the best con movies ever made, THE STING is a worth watching, edge of the seat thriller with many great entertaining moments focusing on a superb con game played by its talented cast. Though, the film begins on a very calm note, building its basic premise around the con-men following an old world charm. It later turns out to be a thorough entertainer with proceedings engaging enough to keep you glued to the screen with excitement. And when the real thing begins, it completely takes over the viewer with its own intelligence, wit and comedy too, executed in a highly skillful mode.
Supposedly based on the real-life instances of two brothers and their 1914 con known as “The Wire”, the film also considers the book “The Big Con” by David. W. Maurer, published in 1940 as its basic inspiration (as per IMDB). And taking its clues from these two major sources, THE STING revolves around a young con man, who wishes to seek revenge from a big criminal boss, for a dear friend, killed mercilessly. He decides to take the help of another con-master for the tough job, forms a team and then goes for robbing the mob boss a major fortune as per their detailed plan. The script progresses with many interesting twists at regular intervals and the whole con game played is a treat to watch with many last moment changes made in just the nick of time.
The title emphasizing on the word STING actually uses it as a metaphor referring to the pain or hurt felt by a person after a strong bee sting. And here it actually points towards a well-planned trick or game played to fool and rob the opponent. The director shows a terrific sense of detailing and is well supported by an excellent cinematography as well as background score making you feel the thrill right where its required exactly. The well written dialogues prove to be another ace in this famous classic and performances take it further to much greater heights, superbly led by both Paul Newman and Robert Redford from the front. Interestingly the film also has many short but worth appreciating supporting acts too coming from the entire cast performing outstandingly.
Deserving every bit of praises and appreciation it receives till date, THE STING won seven OSCARS in the year 1974 including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Writing, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Editing & Best Music. Plus it was also nominated in 3 more categories namely Best Actor (Robert Redford), Best Cinematography and Best Sound.
Apart from all the awards & nominations, another great feature of THE STING is its tremendous repeat value, wherein you can enjoy the con being played even more watching it for the second time. And believe me; it’s really fun catching all the supporting characters acting perfectly in the backdrop, while carefully watching the film again in many repeated viewings.
In all, THE STING is a real visual delight for all lovers of this particular genre and you got to see it urgently to be with the two best con men ever, performing at their best.
Directed By George Roy Hill
Written By David S. Ward
Starring : Paul Newman, Robert Redford, Robert Shaw.
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