FYI: "dick" as used in this film means "detective". :) Also, another fun fact is that all the "stage" names of the con men are actually real people who were grifting in the 20's and 30's. Kid Twist (the dapper guy you like so much), Limehouse Chappy, the Big Alabama - all of them really existed.
Beginning in 1931, there was a comic strip called "Dick Tracy." Tracy was a police detective and I don't really know, but I tend to think "dick" as used here might be a reference to the comic strip title character.
In 2010, Kevin Smith directed Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan in a movie called Cop-Out where they played two P.I.'s (Private Investigators). But, before the studio changed it at the 11th hour, originally the screenplay for the film was titled: A Couple Of Dicks. Of course, a play on words, but most people even by 2010 who were under forty, didn't know the reference and only get the surface level entendre, not the slang term of said profession. That said, I think it's pretty hilarious that it's a term lost to time so all these old P.I. films that use the street slang of Private Dick now reads as people in these old timey movies suddenly sounding very modern for a second with their supposed vulgarity, that's just comedy gold. It's like rain boots back in the day used to have a slang term so a bunch of old films has parents in stormy weather yelling at their kids as they go to school: 'Don't forget your rubbers!' This was already funny in the 80's when we were teens watching old movies.
I saw this in theaters when it first came out. I loved everything about it. While I'm not fond of graphic violence (I have a very low 'ketchup' threshold), at least it wasn't prolonged. I don't watch it often, but I do love Ray Walston (J.J.), who starred with Bill Bixby in the sitcom 'My Favorite Martian', one of my favorite shows when I was growing up. During this period, results of horse races from around the country were sent to newspapers, etc. by tickertape, so that the winners were known almost instantaneously. The 'wire' con was run by receiving the tickertape, so that the results were known by those running the con, but reading them out (as if on radio) a few minutes *after* the race had actually run. That's what J.J. was doing in the back room, hence his sigh of relief when Billie told him that Lonergan had left. The mark, in this case Lonergan, would be manipulated into betting on a horse that the conmen already knew had actually lost the race. However, if the mark looked at the results in the newspaper later, it would all look kosher. Past posting, as described by Johnny Hooker, is a different con. The costumes you love so much were designed by Edith Head, one of Hollywood's best designers of all time. It's said that the Edna Mode character in 'The Incredibles 2' was a spoof of Edith Head. (No capes!!)
Just like your grandfather's choice, this is my favorite film of all time. I saw it in theaters when I was ten and have revisited it many times since. I am glad you highlighted it. While Newman and Redford only made two pictures together, those two were great movies and Hill directed both of them. Hill would team up with Newman for "Slapshot", a very funny sports film of the late 1970s.
This is one of my favorite gangster films because the reason the Sting takes place is revenge. It's the depression,Robert Redford's surrogate father is a Black man who taught him everything he knows to survive. The actor who played Luther ( who is killed) the great stage actor Robert Earl Jones is the actor James Earl Jones father! Other black actors in this movie are Negro Theatre Royalty. Pauline Meyers and Avon Long. When Luther is killed a group of white men seek revenge. Segregation was still prevalent in America when this movie was made. It was daring to show blacks and whites working together on behalf of a black man whose family no longer has a father and husband as head of the household. The clothes were amazing 👏 Robert Redford for me,became a sex symbol. The casting was on point 💯.
Robert Shaw was one of those forces of nature who could bring up the level of a movie.I loved him as Quint the fisherman in JAWS,but he was also great in movies like FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE,ROBIN AND MARION and A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS.
And he was wonderful playing the lead in Swashbuckler -- not a really good movie, because the script was so poor, but Shaw was still great in it -- and in my opinion it's another of the really great musical film scores.
I loved how you fell for the dapper Kid Twist (Harold Gould). My favorite character in the movie. I love his line "Dukee, if this goes south the Feds are the least of our worries."
Paul Newman remained super handsome well into the 80s. Mia if you haven't watched "The Hustler" with Newman I highly recommend it, and "Cool Hand Luke" as well. He recieved Oscar Noms for both of them 👌
When two of the most beautiful men smile at each other at the end, I melt! When I re-watch this film, I may replay that, or hit pause to admire that view.
Check out Richard Turner on RUclips, the world's best card fixer. He's an expert at second dealing which Newman does. He keeps a card on top that he wants (like a wild card and deals off the second card) Turner can deal any hand to anyone at anytime. On top of all that he is blind.
I love Eileen Brennan’s line delivery here, especially when she walks by one of the rooms, pauses, then backs up a step and just intones, “Time.” Now, that’s a good madame, who is a good manager of her house.
I love how, in a behind the scenes interview, she said her direction was to walk so one hip touched one side of the hallway, and the other hip touched the other side of the hallway. ❤️
The Sting is reminiscent of films from the thirties and forties that are called Runyonesque in honor of New York columnist and short story writer Damon Runyon. The stories were about con men and pickpockets and petty thieves with hearts of gold and the slang that he wrote for his characters. Examples would be Frank Capra’s first big hit Lady for a Day, Shirley Temple’s Little Miss Marker, Bobe Hope’s Lemon Drop Kid, and the Broadway musical Guys and Dolls.
Salino would have killed Hooker in her room that night if Mrs. Hillard hadn’t seen him talking to her. I love that everything makes sense in this extremely tight script!
If you like light-hearted movies about the 1930's, check out "Paper Moon". It stars father and daughter Ryan and Tatum O'Neal, It's a great fun film about survival in the depression. You'll love it I think.
I don't know why Paper Moon is not getting any love from reactors, but it is the perfect film for Mia Tiffany's channel. I sincerely hope to see it here very soon.
A great reaction to a great movie. By 1973 the public had forgotten about Scott Joplin. His music got a rebirth because of The Sting. Ragtime had a resurgence of popularity that lasted several years. A technical error in this movie: A silencer will not work on a revolver. The gases escape from around the cylinder, so the gun still makes a lot of noise. It doesn't really matter, though. Just a minor point. My dad owned a paint store at the time The Sting came out. One of his customers was a sign painter. The guy's comment about the movie was, "Nice lettering." He liked the title cards. Another good movie about con artists is House of Games, written and directed by David Mamet. It has a different feeling from The Sting. I like it a lot, but it's obscure enough that I wouldn't recommend it for a reaction video. I'm looking forward to Doctor Zhivago. It fits well into the Epic Scores category.
As a new viewer of classic movies, it is interesting to look at the noticeable changes of the 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s old Hollywood era and the new Hollywood era starting in the 60s and 70s. So much has changed throughout history. So, it is interesting to watch something from the 30s and then turn around and watch something from, like? 1967! Huge difference!
Right?! Besides technical advances, a main change was the end of the Hayes Code - prevalent from early 30s to mid 60s. The Code kept a tight reign on “morality” in the movies and what could be shown and/or said. Pre-Code films are worth watching and then comparing to movies from just a few years later! But, because of the Code limits, screenwriters had to be particularly adept at “saying without saying,” if you know what I mean!
@@Divamarja_CA YES! I noticed that they would use sexual humor without actually saying the word SEX> Bringing Up Baby is a great example of this because of the scene when the back of Susan's dress is torn and David has to hide it. "Oh my! Get closer! I can't get any closer!" 😆 or "Because I just went GAY all of a sudden!" 😆
This is a rewatchable film. I remember seeing this 5 or 6 times when it was first released - it stayed in theaters for 30-40 weeks, and despite knowing what would happen, the construction of the film was soooo wonderful.
This was such a blast. My dad drove us to a drive-in back in the mid-70s to see this on second run. We were in the car on a summer night with those cheap metal drive-speakers affixed to the car window, drinkin' in the atmosphere and having fun with the movie. It was a film the whole family could enjoy and it still holds up. It was one of those movies that had a big buzz around it at the time.
What a pleasure to see this wonderful host enjoying this film so much, and with good reason: Writing, acting, pacing, costume, set design, score. I have loved this movie for years and still can't find a flaw.
@@MoviesWithMia I did indeed. Rather, I enjoyed your enjoyment of it, as I'm thoroughly familiar with the film by now. Keep up the good work and awesome movie choices.
One of my Top 10 favorites! It’s also one of my (late) father’s favorites, which always amused me-he was a minister who probably saw fewer than a dozen movies in theaters in his entire life. We saw this one together when it came out. I was 12, and Dad was 50. We ended up bonding over this film more than any other.
Harold Gould was a wonderful character actor with a long career. After many years and many roles he became a household name as Valerie Harper's father in the sitcom _Rhoda,_ a spin-off of the _Mary Tyler Moore Show._
I have always admired Harold Gould over his long career, and I agree with Mia about how handsome he looks as Kid Twist in The Sting. Seeing him elegantly walking through the lobby, quietly acknowledging Newman, I think this may be my favorite film role of his.
My mind is still blown when I learned that actor who plays Luther, is James Earl Jones' father. I love this film. The music, the characters. The plot is so well written and keeps you just guessing.
Such an underrated movie! I saw in in the theater when it was released and the score was still in my head for weeks. Redford and Newman were box office gold. Thanks for reviewing this one!
The score was popular for a good five years, re-introducing ragtime, which would then become the name of Cagney's last film, RAGTIME. The nose-swipe was also a hip, cool gesture, worthy of a giggled "I liked that movie too" code of sorts.
Hard to say it was underrated when it won 7 academy awards. I love the movie, but it has not aged well IMO. Looking back on it, I'd say American Graffiti has stood up to time much better, and probably should have won the Oscar in a less than spectacular year for movies.
My 13-year old niece was introduced to this movie during Covid times, and she loves it and has asked to watch it several times. Doesn’t hurt the leading actors are easy on the eyes…
Underrated? Goodness. Hardly. 94% rotten tomatoes. Won seven Oscars include Best Picture. One of the highest grossing films of all time. It does alright. ;)
A shout out to the great Ray Walston (J.J.), beloved star of TV's My Favorite Martian (1963-1966). I'm still waiting for him to get back to Mars. Walston was also a Tony Award winner for Damn Yankees and starred in the movie version too. Mia, you saw him in The Apartment and he was memorable as Mr. Hand in Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
I’m in no way embarrassed to say that I’ve been crushing on Harold Gould (Kid Twist) for over 45 years. Always dapper and handsome, and so talented! I know him most as Rhoda and Brenda’s father on “Rhoda.”
The guy in the gray hat is Harold Gould (pronounced "Goold", and yes, he is as sweet and dapper as the day is long and the night is cool. I fangirl him too. I also love Ray Walston, who was always Uncle Marvin from "My Favorite Martian" to me, but was also famous as the Devil in "Damn Yankees". Oh the greatly-missed Robert Shaw! One of the greats. For just a hint of his range, watch him here, compare him to Quint in "Jaws" and then as the Sheriff in "Robin and Marian". And the voice, that flexible yet strong and fixed voice...! Schneider is Charles Durning, another one of those priceless, versatile supporting actors who go deep into their character and really make you feel who that character is. It's no surprise that the costumes are so wonderful: they were designed by legend Edith Head, who dressed everyone from Katharine Hepburn to Bette Davis to Steve Martin in "Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid". The costume designer character in "The Incredibles" was a homage to her. Remember Shaw tells them to "put Salino on it" in regard to getting Hooker. That Salino is the best at assassination. I fell in love with the music that plays over the night before the con. It's called "Solace" and here's the whole piece, on piano, as Joplin composed it: ruclips.net/video/OKNHp-daefk/видео.html. I watched this gem with the family when it first came out, and remember the revival of Joplin's music the movie sparked. I had not really be aware of Joplin beforehand, but have gathered lots of his music over the years, as well as a collection of other African American composers/performers like Fats Waller, Teddy Wilson, and Jelly Roll Morton. Joplin has a tiny, featured section in a very good book with a complicated structure: "Ragtime". I know there have been media adaptations of it but haven't seen any of them as yet.
Any film that casts Robert Shaw was elevated. He put his stamp on every performance he ever did. He also wrote a really good book. Man in the Glass Booth. I would recommend it if you are looking for a good read
So happy I found your channel. As someone who loves classic films I appreciate your focus on these older films. You've already reacted to many of my favorite old films. One you have reacted to is "Some Came Running". 1959. First film featuring both Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Based on a novel written by the same author of "From Here to Eternity".
Movie masterpiece at its best! The first time I saw this in the early 80s, my jaw was on the ground for days as I was conned with the rest of the world! It's been a while since I'be seen this film that I forgot how many wonderful small time actors were in it. I've seen a number of them in other films and it's always great to go back and research older films to see who appeared in them and how famous they are in today's time. Sadly, most of them have passed on. I had the HUGEST crush on Eileen Brennen when I saw this! ❤
Wire service in terms of gambling was a service that sent race results and other details from various gambling events to throughout the United States. Think of it as the 1930s version of Twitter. "A news agency is an organization that gathers news reports and sells them in to subscribing news organizations, such as newspapers, magazines and radio and television broadcasters. News agencies are known for their press releases. A news agency may also be referred to as a wire service, newswire, or news service."
my local classic FM radio considers Scott Joplin an important part of the American classic music cannon. When they play his music it instantly takes me back to the early 70s when Mom was so enthralled by this movie that she grabbed the music and would play it on the piano. She commented on its complexity for the keyboard. Give his music a listen and appreciate both its simplicity and its expressive complexity. His was a genius life cut short by disease.
Mia,, that was a very cool thing you did about singling out a comment/question and answering it. That was more personal to me than those that do a live stream. Also I saw this movie when it first came out. My ex wife and I stood in a long line just to see it and back then were only a couple theaters to go , but they did have large capacity. The sting theme song played they whole time while people were getting seated. Back then it was practice not to start a movie till everyone was seated. Without question in my top 3 all time favs.
The piece of music during the "love scene" is a remarkable Scott Joplin piece from 1909: "Solace: A Mexican Serenade." I LOVE the idea of a ragtime serenade.
Yay! One of my Top Ten films. Amazing how so few people remember it when it was such a massive hit on release. One cool thing about it is that it contains the only example I can think of where the musical soundtrack actually LAUGHS. You can hear it at the peak of the first con, when Mottola opens the handkerchief. I laugh along every time. And the climax! I wish you could have heard how the crowd SCREAMED at the moment the last twist was revealed. One of the best times I've ever had at the movies - my family loved it so much we went every single week to see it the whole summer. I still have the entire thing memorized. 🤣
This is one of my all time favourite films. It’s an absolute classic. I really enjoy your commentary, and the background about the film was really interesting. It’s nice to finally find a reactor that’s as well versed in film history as you obviously are. It makes the whole experience so much richer. Great job! The music and wardrobe in this film are almost characters unto themselves. The art direction is the best I’ve ever seen. Shaw’s glare is so icy and viscous it always scares the hell out of me. Robert Shaw was a wonderful actor.
What a coincidence. Mia, you are premiering "The Sting" today, and yesterday I went to the local Goodwill and picked up a piano roll of "Scott Joplin's" Maple Leaf rag.
Edith Head, costume designer for The Sting, was a well recognized fixture in thr Hollywood AND social scenes. She was commissioned to design Prs. LB J's daughter's wedding gown in mid 60's.Im amazed how the flavor of Chicago's neighborhood feel was captured by the set designer. My family would visit Chicago often in the 69's and it looked and felt exactly as the film portraited it.
The limp on Lanagan's character, Shaw had a skiing accident shortly before filming started. He apologized profusely to the director, saying he'd understand if they needed to get a new actor for his part. Director said, walk across the room a bit. Shaw did, with that limp. Director said, "OK, your character has a limp"
When this movie came out the costumes inspired a fashion trend in men’s clothes. Another film from around this period that started a fashion trend was ‘The Great Gatsby’. Also, when Gondorf was gathering the men for the big con it was a slight throwback to The Seven Samurai.
I read the Book "The Sting" before seeing the movie. It was one of those rare times when the Movie truly reflects the book. Love this movie so very much.
One of my absolute favourites. A really solid movie. Good actors, really good actors. Best soundtrack. Got me hooked in Scott Joplin. Tight story, so good.
Thanks, Ajax!! I also wanted to say thank you so much for sending me a copy of Babydoll! I have been wanting to watch it since I heard Eli Wallach was in it!!!
THX Mia ❤️i was 13 when this movie get sweden 1974 it was my favorit movie in 15 years (: THX Mia for a wonderful reaction on The sting. Swedish name on it was (Blåsningen) and means " The blow " very strange (:❤️🇸🇪👍🏼👏
The Sting with Paul Newman and Robert Redford and director George Roy Hill prove that charm humor and a few stick twists can add up to a great film, THE STING (1973) 92/100% Certified Approved ☑️
Another great film with Robert Shaw is The Taking of Pelham One Two Three . . . do not be fooled by silly remakes . . . the original from 1974 is the only one to watch. Also, it would fit your current theme because it has a truly iconic score!
This was my first time seeing a grown-up movie in the theater, when I was seven. My whole family went to the aging 1920s-era movie palace the Rialto Theatre in my hometown of Joliet, IL to see it. When the movie opened and the title card came on screen stating the year and location, well, I had never heard that volume of cheers in a room before! That really impressed on me how important movies can be to people. This film left me with a lifelong love of ragtime, grifter films, and Robert Redford (by the late ‘70s, I had a life-sized poster of him on the back of my bedroom door).
One time when I was a teenager in Hollywood, I was on the Sunset Strip with a friend, and we saw Paul Newman in a convertible Rolls Royce car with the top down and from where I saw him directly he had those blue eyes you could not mistake This the seventies
Robert Shaw's limp made Lonegan much more terrifying; I admire Hill's instinct. You enjoyed the costumes; they were the work of Edith Head, 8-time Oscar-winner.
Aside from the eye schmootz, you ARE perfect. You are the most knowledgeable about the stars, the industry, and the craft, the most perceptive when it comes to plot and detail (nice catch on that card trick cut), the most courageous in your film choices, you have the absolute prettiest smile, your editing is generous and meticulous, your enthusiasm is infectious, and you have confidence and charisma that is a joy to experience. Thank you for sharing yourself the way you do.
I have always admired Harold Gould over his long career, and I agree with Mia about how handsome he looks as Kid Twist in The Sting. Seeing him elegantly walk through the lobby, quietly acknowledging Newman, I think this may be my favorite film role of his.
The Sting has a unique place in my heart. It was my late Father's favourite. Must have watched it over 20 times. It's such an amazing movie proper stars. Newman & Redford are just superb. Shame they only made two films.
Your father had impeccable taste in movies 😁 not only was this fabulously acted, it was also wonderfully written and directed!! Absolutely loved this one!!
I'm so happy to see you discovering this movie, Mia. There were seven of us in our family so usually one-on-one outings with a single parent were rare. However, my father took me to see two movies when I was in my teens. One was Young Frankenstein and the other was The Sting. To this day, both these movies mean so much to me, particularly The Sting. In 2018, one of NJ's two largest theatres presented a musical version of The Sting and it was probably the only time I sat in the theatre and never had my smile leave my face. It was destined to be taken to Broadway but so far this hasn't happened. I haven't started watching your reaction yet but I wanted to get all that out before I do. I've really enjoyed all your reaction videos and what you bring to the table each time. Too many times reaction videos are all about showcasing the person doing the reactions, most of the time making wise comments and pulling faces at the camera. In complete contrast, you deeply enjoy and appreciate cinema and that is so refreshing.
As for that personal question, I'd love to know what movie it was that connected with you and made you fall in love with cinema. This isn't so much what movie you first really enjoyed but the one that made you want to know more about the film or made you recognize character, plot, lighting, sound, etc. Thank you.
Since this is about the score. Scott Joplin is the genius originator of many ragtime songs and the inspiration for the score. Marvin Hamlisch not only has claim to the EGOT awards for his musical contributions but also the Pulitzer Prize for writing A Chorus Line. The only other person to receive all of these honors is Richard Rogers. I remember watching Marvin Hamlisch as a little girl and seeing how nice was to his mother. In 2011, I was at an airport and Hamlisch was on the same flight. I needed assistance getting on board and I said to him that he was a national treasure. He looked like I gave him a million dollars. He was so touched startled and humble. I was afraid to approach him, but I am so glad I did. He passed away suddenly within a year. It's something I'll never forget,.
Robert Shaw was a fine actor and was most imposing onscreen, but was actually quite short. When he met Jack Nicholson he ran over to him excitedly and, greeting him warmly, said 'Hooray! Another short actor!' He was also super competitive and loved roles that showed off his physical strength and fitness. PS. He was also a deep thinker and an accomplished novelist. Sadly, it was shortly after he'd come up with an ending for what would be his final book that he collapsed and died. He had gone for a drive near his home in Ireland with a family member, and got out of the vehicle to stroll along the windy coast to clear his head. As they were returning he suddenly exclaimed 'I've got it! I have the perfect ending!' Unfortunately he never made it home to write it down.
Don't know if anyone else has mentioned it, but the reason Lonnegan's limp seems so legit is because it was; Robert Shaw injured himself just before filming started, and incorporated the limp into his performance.
I saw this flick when it released, with my grandparents. It’s been a long time favorite for me. Glad you enjoyed it, and I hope other, younger folks will discover it, and enjoy it, as well! BTW… When they call Schneider a “dick”, here’s what they meant… Even though your interpretation was also correct. ;-) “slang A private investigator or detective. "Dick" is a slang shortening of "detective." The disgraced police detective moved to another state and started a business as a private dick.” 😁
I see the title of this movie, I get _The Entertainer_ stuck in my head for the whole day, no way about it... (Don't get me wrong, the film's great; love it, a true classic... but it should come with a warning about that damn earworm.)
Lt Snyder played by Charles Durning. He was a war hero in WWII, but was at heart a dancer. See the song "Dance A Little Sidestep" in Best Little Whorehouse. How can a little round man dance and sing so well? The twinkle in his eyes says it all.
MIA YOU ARE GREAT, IS SO GRATIFYING SEE A YOUG PERSON REACT TO THIS WONDERFUL CLASSIC MOVIES WITH SO REAL FRESHNES AND OBJECTIVITY AND ENTERING WITH RESEARCH AND CAREING ABOUT THE ARTISTIC CRAFT FROM THE MOVIE CREATORS . I SINCERELY CONGRATULATE YOU MIA. I HAVE A REQUEST IT'S NOT A CLASSIC PER SE BUT IT'S A GREAT MOVIE FROM A STAGE PLAY IT'S NAME IS "DEATH TRAP" FEATURING MICHAEL CAIN, CHRISTOPHER REEVES, DYAN CANNON, I'M SURE YOU'LL ENJOY IT AS MUCH AS I DID. KEEP THE GOOD WORK I SEND YOU MY SINCERE GRATITUDE
This movie came out while the movie "Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid," which also paired Redford and Newman, a very powerful pairing. The Sting seemed to be leading up to the same type of end, which magnified the effect of the shock ending.
I remember this film making Ragtime Piano very popular in the UK in the mid 1970s for a while. Robert Shaw died much too young of a heart attack in 1978.
My favorite line from this movie is Robert Shaw after losing the poker game back in his room telling his second, "What was I supposed to do? Call him for cheating better than me in front of the others?!"
Ray Walston played a number of roles in Hollywood, but is known for playing "Uncle Martin" is the 1960s TV series "My Favorite Martian - with Bill Bixby.
Love your reaction to films and all the interesting info you share with us. You may have already discovered this but the handsome man in the grey hat was character actor Harold Gould who years after "The Sting" had a recurring role on the Golden Girls as Rose's boyfriend Miles. And going back to the 70's he also took on the role of Rhoda Morganstern's father in the show Rhoda...a spin off from The Mary Tyler Moore show...starring Valery Harper.
Like the costumes? You should check out Edith Head, then, the designer for this film and many others. She won more Oscars than anyone else, even John Williams. You could devote a month to her. She was the inspiration for Edna Mode in The Incredibles.
The last movie she was the costume designer for was the Steve Martin film noir comedy _Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid._ You should see it; it will blow your mind.
I was just rewatching this reaction (love it!!), and the thought popped into my head-how will the conmen here avoid repercussions? Then, I realized that the only relatively local person being duped who survived and knew about the wire store was Snyder. And, as was stated, a Joliet badge doesn’t carry any weight in Chicago, so there really was no reason for Snyder to go there again, at least for job reasons. Also, Snyder was only in the place for a few minutes at the end, and would probably only remember Erie and “Agent Polk” (Hickey) if he saw them again. So, as long as Erie also blows town after collecting his cut, and everyone avoids both Joliet and New York for a while (Lonnegan’s domain), they should all be in the clear.
Mia, that somber music is part of a piece entitled "Mexican Serenade" by Scott Joplin. I'm so excited that you are finally going to do a reaction to "Dr. Zhivago"
I haven't seen any comments mentioning that this movie was inspired by the 1940 book The Big Con by David W. Maurer. The author has interviewed many actual con men and describes their methods; every single confidence trick in the movie, from the simplest to the most elaborate, is taken directly from the book, except for the brief moment when Johnny and Twist have to come up with the office-painting stunt at short notice. So while the plot is hugely imaginative, the confidence games on which it centers are absolutely authentic.
Shaw's character's limping in the film was authentic. Shaw had slipped on a wet handball court at the Beverly Hills Hotel a week before filming began and had injured the ligaments in his knee. He
I saw it in the theater back in the day. Delightful film! I can never watch it too many times! I remember hearing the soundtrack on top-40 radio. And the actor that played Luther was the father of James Earl Jones. Their voices were almost the same. FYI- "Dick" was a term that was used for a cop in those days. And Schneider was a cop on the take. Dishonest. My big sister had crush on Robert Shaw. Even when she was married. 😄 I'm glad you caught on to the fact that the viewing audience was conned as well. This movie is a masterpiece. Newman and Redford should have made more together.
FOR A SIMILAR TYPE OF UNPREDICTABLE TWIST AT THE CONCLUSION OF A MOVIE. BUT MORE ON THE DARKER SIDE OF THINGS. CHECK OUT THE AGATHA CHRISTIE REMAKE OF THE MOVIE, TEN LITTLE INDIANS. FROM AROUND 1974, STARING OLIVER REED, ELKE SUMMER AND RICHARD ATTENBOROUGH. THE ENDING WILL SURPRISE YOU AS WELL !
Among the most perfect movies ever made with actors that are so amazing. LOVE it.
FYI: "dick" as used in this film means "detective". :)
Also, another fun fact is that all the "stage" names of the con men are actually real people who were grifting in the 20's and 30's. Kid Twist (the dapper guy you like so much), Limehouse Chappy, the Big Alabama - all of them really existed.
It cracked me up that Mia read "dick" differently. The great thing is both definitions work for Snyder.
Yeah, these young reactors don't get the reference. 😂
Yeah, in old crime dramas, you will often hear private detectives referred to as "Private Dicks."
Beginning in 1931, there was a comic strip called "Dick Tracy." Tracy was a police detective and I don't really know, but I tend to think "dick" as used here might be a reference to the comic strip title character.
In 2010, Kevin Smith directed Bruce Willis and Tracy Morgan in a movie called Cop-Out where they played two P.I.'s (Private Investigators). But, before the studio changed it at the 11th hour, originally the screenplay for the film was titled: A Couple Of Dicks.
Of course, a play on words, but most people even by 2010 who were under forty, didn't know the reference and only get the surface level entendre, not the slang term of said profession. That said, I think it's pretty hilarious that it's a term lost to time so all these old P.I. films that use the street slang of Private Dick now reads as people in these old timey movies suddenly sounding very modern for a second with their supposed vulgarity, that's just comedy gold. It's like rain boots back in the day used to have a slang term so a bunch of old films has parents in stormy weather yelling at their kids as they go to school: 'Don't forget your rubbers!' This was already funny in the 80's when we were teens watching old movies.
I saw this in theaters when it first came out. I loved everything about it. While I'm not fond of graphic violence (I have a very low 'ketchup' threshold), at least it wasn't prolonged. I don't watch it often, but I do love Ray Walston (J.J.), who starred with Bill Bixby in the sitcom 'My Favorite Martian', one of my favorite shows when I was growing up.
During this period, results of horse races from around the country were sent to newspapers, etc. by tickertape, so that the winners were known almost instantaneously. The 'wire' con was run by receiving the tickertape, so that the results were known by those running the con, but reading them out (as if on radio) a few minutes *after* the race had actually run. That's what J.J. was doing in the back room, hence his sigh of relief when Billie told him that Lonergan had left. The mark, in this case Lonergan, would be manipulated into betting on a horse that the conmen already knew had actually lost the race. However, if the mark looked at the results in the newspaper later, it would all look kosher. Past posting, as described by Johnny Hooker, is a different con.
The costumes you love so much were designed by Edith Head, one of Hollywood's best designers of all time. It's said that the Edna Mode character in 'The Incredibles 2' was a spoof of Edith Head. (No capes!!)
Edith Head win her seventh and final Oscar for Costume Design in "The Sting". Head has win more Academy Awards than any other woman in history.
Just like your grandfather's choice, this is my favorite film of all time. I saw it in theaters when I was ten and have revisited it many times since. I am glad you highlighted it. While Newman and Redford only made two pictures together, those two were great movies and Hill directed both of them. Hill would team up with Newman for "Slapshot", a very funny sports film of the late 1970s.
This is one of my favorite gangster films because the reason the Sting takes place is revenge. It's the depression,Robert Redford's surrogate father is a Black man who taught him everything he knows to survive.
The actor who played Luther ( who is killed) the great stage actor Robert Earl Jones is the actor James Earl Jones father!
Other black actors in this movie are Negro Theatre Royalty.
Pauline Meyers and Avon Long.
When Luther is killed a group of white men seek revenge. Segregation was still prevalent in America when this movie was made. It was daring to show blacks and whites working together on behalf of a black man whose family no longer has a father and husband as head of the household.
The clothes were amazing 👏 Robert Redford for me,became a sex symbol. The casting was on point 💯.
Saw "The Sting" four times! 😄
Robert Shaw was one of those forces of nature who could bring up the level of a movie.I loved him as Quint the fisherman in JAWS,but he was also great in movies like FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE,ROBIN AND MARION and A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS.
Don't forget Col.Hessler from 'Battle of The Bulge', and as "Rabbit Leader" from 'Battle of Britain' as well! 🙂
Also, don’t forget “The Taking of Pelham 123.”
And he was wonderful playing the lead in Swashbuckler -- not a really good movie, because the script was so poor, but Shaw was still great in it -- and in my opinion it's another of the really great musical film scores.
Robert Shaw made a wonderfully wacky pirate movie. Swashbuckler, I think.
More Errol Flynn than Johnny Depp, but lots of outrageous fun.
@@richardzinns5314
Soundtrack in the style of Eric Korngold who did the Errol Flynn movies.
I loved how you fell for the dapper Kid Twist (Harold Gould). My favorite character in the movie. I love his line "Dukee, if this goes south the Feds are the least of our worries."
Paul Newman remained super handsome well into the 80s. Mia if you haven't watched "The Hustler" with Newman I highly recommend it, and "Cool Hand Luke" as well. He recieved Oscar Noms for both of them 👌
Yes, yes, Cool Hand Luke (1967): "What we've got here is failure to communicate."
When two of the most beautiful men smile at each other at the end, I melt! When I re-watch this film, I may replay that, or hit pause to admire that view.
Paul Newman has to be the coolest guy in the history of guys.
"Absence of Malice" another great Paul Newman movie.
Check out Richard Turner on RUclips, the world's best card fixer. He's an expert at second dealing which Newman does. He keeps a card on top that he wants (like a wild card and deals off the second card) Turner can deal any hand to anyone at anytime. On top of all that he is blind.
I love Eileen Brennan’s line delivery here, especially when she walks by one of the rooms, pauses, then backs up a step and just intones, “Time.” Now, that’s a good madame, who is a good manager of her house.
I love Eileen also in The Last Picture Show & Private Benjamin...she and Goldie Hawn were friends in real life also.❤
I love how, in a behind the scenes interview, she said her direction was to walk so one hip touched one side of the hallway, and the other hip touched the other side of the hallway. ❤️
Edith Head won the Oscar for Best Costume design, well deserved.
I’m 58 years old, saw this in the theater when I was 8 and this is still my favorite movie of all time.
The Sting is reminiscent of films from the thirties and forties that are called Runyonesque in honor of New York columnist and short story writer Damon Runyon. The stories were about con men and pickpockets and petty thieves with hearts of gold and the slang that he wrote for his characters. Examples would be Frank Capra’s first big hit Lady for a Day, Shirley Temple’s Little Miss Marker, Bobe Hope’s Lemon Drop Kid, and the Broadway musical Guys and Dolls.
Salino would have killed Hooker in her room that night if Mrs. Hillard hadn’t seen him talking to her. I love that everything makes sense in this extremely tight script!
Yes. I figured that out too. After watching this about 8 times...
Lol, all these years it never occurred to me that this could happen! 😯
Yeah, you just think it is a throw-away gag, but ends up filling a plot hole you wouldn't realize until later. Great writing.
Saw this when I was 18 yrs old. Took 3-4 viewings to understand all the nuances. My favorite of all time.
If you like light-hearted movies about the 1930's, check out "Paper Moon". It stars father and daughter Ryan and Tatum O'Neal, It's a great fun film about survival in the depression. You'll love it I think.
I'm waiting patiently for someone to react to your suggested film. Great choice P.B., you pirate! 😀
@@jcastromex Aye mate
Masterpiece, an almost perfect film.
Yup, that's a good one. Tatum is still looking for her $200.
I don't know why Paper Moon is not getting any love from reactors, but it is the perfect film for Mia Tiffany's channel. I sincerely hope to see it here very soon.
A great reaction to a great movie.
By 1973 the public had forgotten about Scott Joplin. His music got a rebirth because of The Sting. Ragtime had a resurgence of popularity that lasted several years.
A technical error in this movie: A silencer will not work on a revolver. The gases escape from around the cylinder, so the gun still makes a lot of noise. It doesn't really matter, though. Just a minor point.
My dad owned a paint store at the time The Sting came out. One of his customers was a sign painter. The guy's comment about the movie was, "Nice lettering." He liked the title cards.
Another good movie about con artists is House of Games, written and directed by David Mamet. It has a different feeling from The Sting. I like it a lot, but it's obscure enough that I wouldn't recommend it for a reaction video.
I'm looking forward to Doctor Zhivago. It fits well into the Epic Scores category.
As a new viewer of classic movies, it is interesting to look at the noticeable changes of the 20s, 30s, 40s, and 50s old Hollywood era and the new Hollywood era starting in the 60s and 70s. So much has changed throughout history. So, it is interesting to watch something from the 30s and then turn around and watch something from, like? 1967! Huge difference!
Right?! Besides technical advances, a main change was the end of the Hayes Code - prevalent from early 30s to mid 60s. The Code kept a tight reign on “morality” in the movies and what could be shown and/or said. Pre-Code films are worth watching and then comparing to movies from just a few years later! But, because of the Code limits, screenwriters had to be particularly adept at “saying without saying,” if you know what I mean!
@@Divamarja_CA YES! I noticed that they would use sexual humor without actually saying the word SEX> Bringing Up Baby is a great example of this because of the scene when the back of Susan's dress is torn and David has to hide it. "Oh my! Get closer! I can't get any closer!" 😆 or "Because I just went GAY all of a sudden!" 😆
This is a rewatchable film. I remember seeing this 5 or 6 times when it was first released - it stayed in theaters for 30-40 weeks, and despite knowing what would happen, the construction of the film was soooo wonderful.
This was such a blast. My dad drove us to a drive-in back in the mid-70s to see this on second run. We were in the car on a summer night with those cheap metal drive-speakers affixed to the car window, drinkin' in the atmosphere and having fun with the movie. It was a film the whole family could enjoy and it still holds up. It was one of those movies that had a big buzz around it at the time.
What a pleasure to see this wonderful host enjoying this film so much, and with good reason: Writing, acting, pacing, costume, set design, score. I have loved this movie for years and still can't find a flaw.
Glad you enjoyed it!
@@MoviesWithMia I did indeed. Rather, I enjoyed your enjoyment of it, as I'm thoroughly familiar with the film by now. Keep up the good work and awesome movie choices.
Been waiting all week for this. Your reviews/reactions to _actual_ classic movies are a lot smarter than most reactors.
One of my Top 10 favorites! It’s also one of my (late) father’s favorites, which always amused me-he was a minister who probably saw fewer than a dozen movies in theaters in his entire life. We saw this one together when it came out. I was 12, and Dad was 50. We ended up bonding over this film more than any other.
Edith Head won her eighth Oscar for her costumes in this film. She was a Hollywood icon.
Harold Gould was a wonderful character actor with a long career. After many years and many roles he became a household name as Valerie Harper's father in the sitcom _Rhoda,_ a spin-off of the _Mary Tyler Moore Show._
And the original "Mr C" in the original pilot for Happy Days that appeared on Love American Style.
Rose's Boyfriend on "The Golden Girls!
I have always admired Harold Gould over his long career, and I agree with Mia about how handsome he looks as Kid Twist in The Sting. Seeing him elegantly walking through the lobby, quietly acknowledging Newman, I think this may be my favorite film role of his.
@@anthonymunn8633 He also plyed Ann's father in the "That Girl" pilot
He was also the love interest of Rose Nylander in "The Golden Girls"!
I'm 70. I was 21 when I first saw it and your reaction was as close mine that I've seen.😎
My mind is still blown when I learned that actor who plays Luther, is James Earl Jones' father. I love this film. The music, the characters. The plot is so well written and keeps you just guessing.
Such an underrated movie! I saw in in the theater when it was released and the score was still in my head for weeks. Redford and Newman were box office gold. Thanks for reviewing this one!
The score was popular for a good five years, re-introducing ragtime, which would then become the name of Cagney's last film, RAGTIME. The nose-swipe was also a hip, cool gesture, worthy of a giggled "I liked that movie too" code of sorts.
Hard to say it was underrated when it won 7 academy awards. I love the movie, but it has not aged well IMO. Looking back on it, I'd say American Graffiti has stood up to time much better, and probably should have won the Oscar in a less than spectacular year for movies.
@@ckinzh1129 thanks for your reply. I meant underrated now, not in 1973. I prefer the Sting but that’s just my opinion.
My 13-year old niece was introduced to this movie during Covid times, and she loves it and has asked to watch it several times. Doesn’t hurt the leading actors are easy on the eyes…
Underrated? Goodness. Hardly. 94% rotten tomatoes. Won seven Oscars include Best Picture. One of the highest grossing films of all time.
It does alright. ;)
A shout out to the great Ray Walston (J.J.), beloved star of TV's My Favorite Martian (1963-1966). I'm still waiting for him to get back to Mars. Walston was also a Tony Award winner for Damn Yankees and starred in the movie version too. Mia, you saw him in The Apartment and he was memorable as Mr. Hand in Fast Times at Ridgemont High.
I’m in no way embarrassed to say that I’ve been crushing on Harold Gould (Kid Twist) for over 45 years. Always dapper and handsome, and so talented! I know him most as Rhoda and Brenda’s father on “Rhoda.”
The guy in the gray hat is Harold Gould (pronounced "Goold", and yes, he is as sweet and dapper as the day is long and the night is cool. I fangirl him too. I also love Ray Walston, who was always Uncle Marvin from "My Favorite Martian" to me, but was also famous as the Devil in "Damn Yankees".
Oh the greatly-missed Robert Shaw! One of the greats. For just a hint of his range, watch him here, compare him to Quint in "Jaws" and then as the Sheriff in "Robin and Marian". And the voice, that flexible yet strong and fixed voice...!
Schneider is Charles Durning, another one of those priceless, versatile supporting actors who go deep into their character and really make you feel who that character is.
It's no surprise that the costumes are so wonderful: they were designed by legend Edith Head, who dressed everyone from Katharine Hepburn to Bette Davis to Steve Martin in "Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid". The costume designer character in "The Incredibles" was a homage to her.
Remember Shaw tells them to "put Salino on it" in regard to getting Hooker. That Salino is the best at assassination.
I fell in love with the music that plays over the night before the con. It's called "Solace" and here's the whole piece, on piano, as Joplin composed it: ruclips.net/video/OKNHp-daefk/видео.html. I watched this gem with the family when it first came out, and remember the revival of Joplin's music the movie sparked. I had not really be aware of Joplin beforehand, but have gathered lots of his music over the years, as well as a collection of other African American composers/performers like Fats Waller, Teddy Wilson, and Jelly Roll Morton.
Joplin has a tiny, featured section in a very good book with a complicated structure: "Ragtime". I know there have been media adaptations of it but haven't seen any of them as yet.
Some of the greatest collection of character actors in any mivie
Any film that casts Robert Shaw was elevated. He put his stamp on every performance he ever did. He also wrote a really good book. Man in the Glass Booth. I would recommend it if you are looking for a good read
So happy I found your channel. As someone who loves classic films I appreciate your focus on these older films. You've already reacted to many of my favorite old films. One you have reacted to is "Some Came Running". 1959. First film featuring both Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Based on a novel written by the same author of "From Here to Eternity".
Movie masterpiece at its best! The first time I saw this in the early 80s, my jaw was on the ground for days as I was conned with the rest of the world! It's been a while since I'be seen this film that I forgot how many wonderful small time actors were in it. I've seen a number of them in other films and it's always great to go back and research older films to see who appeared in them and how famous they are in today's time. Sadly, most of them have passed on. I had the HUGEST crush on Eileen Brennen when I saw this! ❤
Wire service in terms of gambling was a service that sent race results and other details from various gambling events to throughout the United States. Think of it as the 1930s version of Twitter.
"A news agency is an organization that gathers news reports and sells them in to subscribing news organizations, such as newspapers, magazines and radio and television broadcasters. News agencies are known for their press releases. A news agency may also be referred to as a wire service, newswire, or news service."
my local classic FM radio considers Scott Joplin an important part of the American classic music cannon. When they play his music it instantly takes me back to the early 70s when Mom was so enthralled by this movie that she grabbed the music and would play it on the piano. She commented on its complexity for the keyboard. Give his music a listen and appreciate both its simplicity and its expressive complexity. His was a genius life cut short by disease.
Mia,, that was a very cool thing you did about singling out a comment/question and answering it. That was more personal to me than those that do a live stream.
Also I saw this movie when it first came out. My ex wife and I stood in a long line just to see it and back then were only a couple theaters to go , but they did have large capacity. The sting theme song played they whole time while people were getting seated. Back then it was practice not to start a movie till everyone was seated. Without question in my top 3 all time favs.
Thank you for watching, morris 😁 wow! I wish they would wait for everyone to be seated before they start the movie 😂
The piece of music during the "love scene" is a remarkable Scott Joplin piece from 1909: "Solace: A Mexican Serenade." I LOVE the idea of a ragtime serenade.
I consider it one of the most beautiful pieces ever composed.
Yay! One of my Top Ten films. Amazing how so few people remember it when it was such a massive hit on release. One cool thing about it is that it contains the only example I can think of where the musical soundtrack actually LAUGHS. You can hear it at the peak of the first con, when Mottola opens the handkerchief. I laugh along every time. And the climax! I wish you could have heard how the crowd SCREAMED at the moment the last twist was revealed. One of the best times I've ever had at the movies - my family loved it so much we went every single week to see it the whole summer. I still have the entire thing memorized. 🤣
Definitely BucketList film! ....and a must-see for film nerds like me.
It was a "fun ride" with you, as well, Mia.
You certainly are knowledgeable about hArt of Film-Making...
South East London, England:)
George Roy Hill the director was very underrated, never received the recognition that he deserved according to Robert Redford! 👏👍💪🤗
An intelligent movie that really needs you to pay close attention to enjoy it.
Such great character actors in this movie.
Classic movie! Fun fact, the old man at 5:00 is Robert Earl Jones the father of actor James Earl Jones.
This is one of my all time favourite films. It’s an absolute classic. I really enjoy your commentary, and the background about the film was really interesting. It’s nice to finally find a reactor that’s as well versed in film history as you obviously are. It makes the whole experience so much richer. Great job!
The music and wardrobe in this film are almost characters unto themselves. The art direction is the best I’ve ever seen.
Shaw’s glare is so icy and viscous it always scares the hell out of me. Robert Shaw was a wonderful actor.
Yes he is, his stare is everything...I remember it well in Robin and Marian.
What a coincidence. Mia, you are premiering "The Sting" today, and yesterday I went to the local Goodwill and picked up a piano roll of "Scott Joplin's"
Maple Leaf rag.
Bad deal! Now you have to go out and buy a player piano!! (😁)
My grandfather used to travel the country as a telegrapher for the newspapers to give results of the races. Thats how they got results through the 60s
One of the best films ever made for two reasons. First, the script is brilliant. Secondly, the casting is flawless.
Edith Head, costume designer for The Sting, was a well recognized fixture in thr Hollywood AND social scenes. She was commissioned to design Prs. LB J's daughter's wedding gown in mid 60's.Im amazed how the flavor of Chicago's neighborhood feel was captured by the set designer. My family would visit Chicago often in the 69's and it looked and felt exactly as the film portraited it.
The limp on Lanagan's character, Shaw had a skiing accident shortly before filming started. He apologized profusely to the director, saying he'd understand if they needed to get a new actor for his part. Director said, walk across the room a bit. Shaw did, with that limp. Director said, "OK, your character has a limp"
When this movie came out the costumes inspired a fashion trend in men’s clothes. Another film from around this period that started a fashion trend was ‘The Great Gatsby’. Also, when Gondorf was gathering the men for the big con it was a slight throwback to The Seven Samurai.
I read the Book "The Sting" before seeing the movie. It was one of those rare times when the Movie truly reflects the book. Love this movie so very much.
One of my absolute favourites. A really solid movie. Good actors, really good actors. Best soundtrack. Got me hooked in Scott Joplin. Tight story, so good.
Good choice and I love your enthusiasm. Also, your Grandfather has good taste.
Thanks, Ajax!! I also wanted to say thank you so much for sending me a copy of Babydoll! I have been wanting to watch it since I heard Eli Wallach was in it!!!
@@MoviesWithMia You are quite welcome Mia.
THX Mia ❤️i was 13 when this movie get sweden 1974 it was my favorit movie in 15 years (: THX Mia for a wonderful reaction on The sting. Swedish name on it was (Blåsningen) and means " The blow " very strange (:❤️🇸🇪👍🏼👏
Speaking of David Lean, don't forget his outstanding early work "Hobson's Choice."
The Sting with Paul Newman and Robert Redford and director George Roy Hill prove that charm humor and a few stick twists can add up to a great film, THE STING (1973) 92/100% Certified Approved ☑️
Another great film with Robert Shaw is The Taking of Pelham One Two Three . . . do not be fooled by silly remakes . . . the original from 1974 is the only one to watch. Also, it would fit your current theme because it has a truly iconic score!
This was my first time seeing a grown-up movie in the theater, when I was seven. My whole family went to the aging 1920s-era movie palace the Rialto Theatre in my hometown of Joliet, IL to see it. When the movie opened and the title card came on screen stating the year and location, well, I had never heard that volume of cheers in a room before! That really impressed on me how important movies can be to people. This film left me with a lifelong love of ragtime, grifter films, and Robert Redford (by the late ‘70s, I had a life-sized poster of him on the back of my bedroom door).
One time when I was a teenager in Hollywood, I was on the Sunset Strip with a friend, and we saw Paul Newman in a convertible Rolls Royce car with the top down and from where I saw him directly he had those blue eyes you could not mistake
This the seventies
Robert Shaw's limp made Lonegan much more terrifying; I admire Hill's instinct. You enjoyed the costumes; they were the work of Edith Head, 8-time Oscar-winner.
Aside from the eye schmootz, you ARE perfect. You are the most knowledgeable about the stars, the industry, and the craft, the most perceptive when it comes to plot and detail (nice catch on that card trick cut), the most courageous in your film choices, you have the absolute prettiest smile, your editing is generous and meticulous, your enthusiasm is infectious, and you have confidence and charisma that is a joy to experience. Thank you for sharing yourself the way you do.
I appreciate you, Philip 😁
I have always admired Harold Gould over his long career, and I agree with Mia about how handsome he looks as Kid Twist in The Sting. Seeing him elegantly walk through the lobby, quietly acknowledging Newman, I think this may be my favorite film role of his.
Robert Shaw ... Particularly memorable as the salty sailor shark hunter in Jaws.
Good gosh. I absolutely love every single actor in this film. Just spectacular casting.
The Sting has a unique place in my heart. It was my late Father's favourite. Must have watched it over 20 times. It's such an amazing movie proper stars. Newman & Redford are just superb. Shame they only made two films.
Your father had impeccable taste in movies 😁 not only was this fabulously acted, it was also wonderfully written and directed!! Absolutely loved this one!!
@@MoviesWithMia He sure did. As did your Grandfather. It's lovely to see someone like yourself with a real love of the classics. 😎
Aww! Thank you so much for watching! I am so glad to share my reactions with all of you 😁
I'm so happy to see you discovering this movie, Mia. There were seven of us in our family so usually one-on-one outings with a single parent were rare. However, my father took me to see two movies when I was in my teens. One was Young Frankenstein and the other was The Sting. To this day, both these movies mean so much to me, particularly The Sting.
In 2018, one of NJ's two largest theatres presented a musical version of The Sting and it was probably the only time I sat in the theatre and never had my smile leave my face. It was destined to be taken to Broadway but so far this hasn't happened.
I haven't started watching your reaction yet but I wanted to get all that out before I do. I've really enjoyed all your reaction videos and what you bring to the table each time. Too many times reaction videos are all about showcasing the person doing the reactions, most of the time making wise comments and pulling faces at the camera. In complete contrast, you deeply enjoy and appreciate cinema and that is so refreshing.
As for that personal question, I'd love to know what movie it was that connected with you and made you fall in love with cinema. This isn't so much what movie you first really enjoyed but the one that made you want to know more about the film or made you recognize character, plot, lighting, sound, etc. Thank you.
Since this is about the score. Scott Joplin is the genius originator of many ragtime songs and the inspiration for the score. Marvin Hamlisch not only has claim to the EGOT awards for his musical contributions but also the Pulitzer Prize for writing A Chorus Line. The only other person to receive all of these honors is Richard Rogers. I remember watching Marvin Hamlisch as a little girl and seeing how nice was to his mother. In 2011, I was at an airport and Hamlisch was on the same flight. I needed assistance getting on board and I said to him that he was a national treasure. He looked like I gave him a million dollars. He was so touched startled and humble. I was afraid to approach him, but I am so glad I did. He passed away suddenly within a year. It's something I'll never forget,.
Robert Shaw was a fine actor and was most imposing onscreen, but was actually quite short. When he met Jack Nicholson he ran over to him excitedly and, greeting him warmly, said 'Hooray! Another short actor!'
He was also super competitive and loved roles that showed off his physical strength and fitness.
PS. He was also a deep thinker and an accomplished novelist. Sadly, it was shortly after he'd come up with an ending for what would be his final book that he collapsed and died. He had gone for a drive near his home in Ireland with a family member, and got out of the vehicle to stroll along the windy coast to clear his head. As they were returning he suddenly exclaimed 'I've got it! I have the perfect ending!' Unfortunately he never made it home to write it down.
Always enjoy your reactions… it’s so nice to watch a reactor who has a brain!
Don't know if anyone else has mentioned it, but the reason Lonnegan's limp seems so legit is because it was; Robert Shaw injured himself just before filming started, and incorporated the limp into his performance.
The gentleman you're fangirling over is Harold Gould, who did a ton of TV work for ages, being in a movie was rather rare for him.
I saw this flick when it released, with my grandparents. It’s been a long time favorite for me. Glad you enjoyed it, and I hope other, younger folks will discover it, and enjoy it, as well! BTW… When they call Schneider a “dick”, here’s what they meant… Even though your interpretation was also correct. ;-)
“slang A private investigator or detective. "Dick" is a slang shortening of "detective." The disgraced police detective moved to another state and started a business as a private dick.” 😁
I'm really liking your preamble to the film... subbed 👍😊
Thanks for the sub!
The costumes my friend. Two words: Edith Head, who won 8 Oscars for her designs.
Mia: "No, I'm not married, but I hope to be one day."
Thousands of men: "I can help with that."
Lol! This made my day 😂
You figured out the FBI con, 99% of us didn't see that coming. Great review, your really awesome!
I see the title of this movie, I get _The Entertainer_ stuck in my head for the whole day, no way about it...
(Don't get me wrong, the film's great; love it, a true classic... but it should come with a warning about that damn earworm.)
Speaking of the costumes 22:54, Edith Head won yet another Oscar (8th and final) for The Sting.
Lt Snyder played by Charles Durning. He was a war hero in WWII, but was at heart a dancer. See the song "Dance A Little Sidestep" in Best Little Whorehouse. How can a little round man dance and sing so well? The twinkle in his eyes says it all.
MIA YOU ARE GREAT, IS SO GRATIFYING SEE A YOUG PERSON REACT TO THIS WONDERFUL CLASSIC MOVIES WITH SO REAL FRESHNES AND OBJECTIVITY AND ENTERING WITH RESEARCH AND CAREING ABOUT THE ARTISTIC CRAFT FROM THE MOVIE CREATORS . I SINCERELY CONGRATULATE YOU MIA. I HAVE A REQUEST IT'S NOT A CLASSIC PER SE BUT IT'S A GREAT MOVIE FROM A STAGE PLAY IT'S NAME IS "DEATH TRAP" FEATURING MICHAEL CAIN, CHRISTOPHER REEVES, DYAN CANNON, I'M SURE YOU'LL ENJOY IT AS MUCH AS I DID. KEEP THE GOOD WORK I SEND YOU MY SINCERE GRATITUDE
Your enthusiasm is infectious.
This movie came out while the movie "Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid," which also paired Redford and Newman, a very powerful pairing. The Sting seemed to be leading up to the same type of end, which magnified the effect of the shock ending.
Love the information in the intro and salute to grandpa!
Great move, it never gets old :). Excellent video! Subscribed
I remember this film making Ragtime Piano very popular in the UK in the mid 1970s for a while. Robert Shaw died much too young of a heart attack in 1978.
A beautiful hommage to the music of Scott Joplin
I have never seen you before, you're awesome !!!!
My favorite line from this movie is Robert Shaw after losing the poker game back in his room telling his second, "What was I supposed to do? Call him for cheating better than me in front of the others?!"
Ray Walston played a number of roles in Hollywood, but is known for playing "Uncle Martin" is the 1960s TV series "My Favorite Martian - with Bill Bixby.
Also originated the role of the Devil, Mr. Applegate, in Broadway Show "Damn Yankees" repeated the role in the movie version.
Love your reaction to films and all the interesting info you share with us. You may have already discovered this but the handsome man in the grey hat was character actor Harold Gould who years after "The Sting" had a recurring role on the Golden Girls as Rose's boyfriend Miles. And going back to the 70's he also took on the role of Rhoda Morganstern's father in the show Rhoda...a spin off from The Mary Tyler Moore show...starring Valery Harper.
Pronouncing "homage" correctly _earned_ you your upvote!
Another oldie but goodie is one called What a Way to Go with Shirly Mclaine and a slew of male leads. It was a classic and you would love it
Like the costumes? You should check out Edith Head, then, the designer for this film and many others. She won more Oscars than anyone else, even John Williams. You could devote a month to her. She was the inspiration for Edna Mode in The Incredibles.
The last movie she was the costume designer for was the Steve Martin film noir comedy _Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid._ You should see it; it will blow your mind.
I was just rewatching this reaction (love it!!), and the thought popped into my head-how will the conmen here avoid repercussions? Then, I realized that the only relatively local person being duped who survived and knew about the wire store was Snyder. And, as was stated, a Joliet badge doesn’t carry any weight in Chicago, so there really was no reason for Snyder to go there again, at least for job reasons. Also, Snyder was only in the place for a few minutes at the end, and would probably only remember Erie and “Agent Polk” (Hickey) if he saw them again. So, as long as Erie also blows town after collecting his cut, and everyone avoids both Joliet and New York for a while (Lonnegan’s domain), they should all be in the clear.
14:16 that was well spotted, John Scarne did the card trick hand work for that scene.
Mia, that somber music is part of a piece entitled "Mexican Serenade" by Scott Joplin. I'm so excited that you are finally going to do a reaction to "Dr. Zhivago"
Luther is played by the great Robert Earl Jones, father of the great James Earl Jones. Greatness runs in the family.
I haven't seen any comments mentioning that this movie was inspired by the 1940 book The Big Con by David W. Maurer. The author has interviewed many actual con men and describes their methods; every single confidence trick in the movie, from the simplest to the most elaborate, is taken directly from the book, except for the brief moment when Johnny and Twist have to come up with the office-painting stunt at short notice. So while the plot is hugely imaginative, the confidence games on which it centers are absolutely authentic.
Robert Shaw was for many years the star of Childrens TV "The Buccaneers". he stared in "The Tajingg of Pelham 1 2 3".
Shaw's character's limping in the film was authentic. Shaw had slipped on a wet handball court at the Beverly Hills Hotel a week before filming began and had injured the ligaments in his knee. He
I saw it in the theater back in the day. Delightful film! I can never watch it too many times! I remember hearing the soundtrack on top-40 radio. And the actor that played Luther was the father of James Earl Jones. Their voices were almost the same.
FYI- "Dick" was a term that was used for a cop in those days. And Schneider was a cop on the take. Dishonest.
My big sister had crush on Robert Shaw. Even when she was married. 😄
I'm glad you caught on to the fact that the viewing audience was conned as well. This movie is a masterpiece. Newman and Redford should have made more together.
FOR A SIMILAR TYPE OF UNPREDICTABLE TWIST AT THE CONCLUSION OF A MOVIE. BUT MORE ON THE DARKER SIDE OF THINGS. CHECK OUT THE AGATHA CHRISTIE REMAKE OF THE MOVIE, TEN LITTLE INDIANS. FROM AROUND 1974, STARING OLIVER REED, ELKE SUMMER AND RICHARD ATTENBOROUGH. THE ENDING WILL SURPRISE YOU AS WELL !