Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Sting is a 1973 caper film directed by George Roy Hill, starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford. Set in 1930s Chicago, the film follows the story of two professional grifters who team up to con a ruthless crime boss. The film is known for its intricate plot, stylish direction, and memorable score by Marvin Hamlisch, featuring the ragtime music of Scott Joplin.
The Story Unfolds
The Setup
The film opens with Johnny Hooker (Robert Redford), a small-time con artist, and his partner Luther Coleman (Robert Earl Jones) pulling off a successful street scam. However, they unknowingly cheat a courier for the powerful crime boss Doyle Lonnegan (Robert Shaw). In retaliation, Lonnegan’s men kill Luther, prompting Hooker to seek revenge.
Recruiting the Best
Hooker travels to Chicago to find Henry Gondorff (Paul Newman), a once-great con man now hiding from the FBI. Despite initial reluctance, Gondorff agrees to help Hooker pull off a complex and risky con to take down Lonnegan. They gather a team of skilled grifters and set the wheels in motion.
The Climax and Resolution
The Big Con
The plan involves setting up a fake betting parlor and convincing Lonnegan that Gondorff is a corrupt bookie who can provide him with fixed horse race results. The con unfolds with meticulous detail, as they lure Lonnegan into betting large sums of money on the rigged races.
The Sting
In a dramatic climax, Lonnegan places a massive bet, believing he has insider information. At the last moment, the FBI, who have been trailing Hooker, raid the betting parlor. In the ensuing chaos, it appears that Gondorff and Hooker are shot and killed. However, this is all part of the elaborate con. Once Lonnegan and the FBI leave, Gondorff and Hooker reveal they are unharmed, having successfully duped Lonnegan and made off with his money.
The Conclusion
The Aftermath
The film concludes with Gondorff and Hooker celebrating their success. They go their separate ways, having achieved their goal of avenging Luther and pulling off one of the greatest cons in cinematic history.
Movie Ending
The Sting ends on a triumphant note, with the con artists outsmarting the crime boss and escaping unscathed. The final scene highlights the cleverness and camaraderie of the protagonists, leaving the audience with a sense of satisfaction and admiration for their ingenuity.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Sting.
Type of Movie
The Sting is a caper film that combines elements of crime, comedy, and drama, characterized by its intricate plot and charming performances.
Cast
- Paul Newman as Henry Gondorff
- Robert Redford as Johnny Hooker
- Robert Shaw as Doyle Lonnegan
- Charles Durning as Lt. William Snyder
- Ray Walston as J.J. Singleton
- Eileen Brennan as Billie
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Marvin Hamlisch, featuring adaptations of Scott Joplin’s ragtime music. The use of Joplin’s “The Entertainer” became iconic and is closely associated with the film.
Filming Locations
The Sting was filmed in various locations, including:
- Chicago, Illinois: To capture the authentic 1930s atmosphere.
- Universal Studios backlot in California: For many of the interior and street scenes.
Awards and Nominations
The Sting received numerous prestigious awards, including:
- Academy Awards: Won 7 Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director (George Roy Hill), Best Original Screenplay (David S. Ward), Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Best Film Editing, and Best Music, Scoring Original Song Score and/or Adaptation. Nominated for Best Actor (Robert Redford), Best Cinematography, and Best Sound.
- Golden Globe Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy (Robert Redford), and Best Director.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Robert Redford and Paul Newman had previously starred together in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969), making them a popular on-screen duo.
- The film’s intricate plot required careful coordination and attention to detail, with director George Roy Hill meticulously planning each scene.
- The use of Scott Joplin’s ragtime music, particularly “The Entertainer,” played a significant role in the film’s success and became a cultural touchstone.
Inspirations and References
The film’s story was inspired by real-life con artists and the book The Big Con: The Story of the Confidence Man by David W. Maurer. The screenplay by David S. Ward drew on historical accounts of confidence tricks and the world of professional grifters.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut closely follows George Roy Hill’s vision, though some deleted scenes and additional content are available in special editions and DVD releases, providing further context and character development.
Book Adaptations and Differences
While the film is an original screenplay, it was inspired by the book The Big Con by David W. Maurer, which explores the world of professional con artists. The film expands on these themes with a fictional narrative.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The opening street scam by Hooker and Luther.
- Gondorff teaching Hooker the intricacies of the big con.
- The poker game on the train where Gondorff cheats Lonnegan.
- The climactic fake betting parlor raid.
Iconic Quotes
- “You’re gonna need a better disguise.” – Henry Gondorff
- “I’m gonna win.” – Doyle Lonnegan
- “He’s not as tough as he thinks.” – Johnny Hooker
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film’s title cards and intertitles are designed in the style of 1930s era graphics, enhancing the period authenticity.
- The detailed set designs and costumes were meticulously researched to accurately reflect the 1930s.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $5.5 million, and it grossed over $159 million worldwide.
- The Sting was one of the highest-grossing films of 1973 and remains one of the most beloved caper films.
- The poker scene on the train was meticulously choreographed to ensure the authenticity of the cheating methods used by Gondorff.
Why Watch?
The Sting is a classic caper film that offers an engaging and entertaining plot filled with twists and turns. Its charming performances, particularly by Newman and Redford, combined with its stylish direction and memorable music, make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and classic cinema.
Director’s Other Movies
George Roy Hill also directed:
- Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
- The World According to Garp (1982)
- Slap Shot (1977)
- Hawaii (1966)
- Funny Farm (1988)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Ocean’s Eleven (2001)
- Catch Me If You Can (2002)
- The Italian Job (1969)
- Sneakers (1992)
- The Thomas Crown Affair (1968)
