‘The Sting’ With Bill Simmons, Chris Ryan, and Sean Fennessey

Key Takeaways

The Rewatchables initiated "Redford Month" by analyzing "The Sting," highlighting the chemistry between Robert Redford and Paul Newman.
The discussion covered the film's intricate cons, its Oscar success, and its enduring appeal within the con movie genre.
Hosts examined 1970s Hollywood star power, Redford's career, and the critical reception of the Best Picture winner.
The episode explored the evolution of cons from theatrical schemes to modern digital deception and the film's lasting impact.
Specific rewatchable scenes and character performances, along with production anecdotes, were central to the conversation.

Robert Shaw observed audiences were more captivated by Paul Newman's charisma despite Robert Redford's star power in "The Sting."
Successful actor reunions in non-sequel films like Redford and Newman are rare, compared to pairings such as Ben Affleck and Matt Damon.

The character of the waitress is praised for masterfully deceptive casting, appearing as an ordinary diner employee rather than a hitwoman.
This masterful misdirection endures even on repeat viewings of the film, contributing to its enduring appeal.
Paul Newman's career before "The Sting" included films such as "WUSA" and "Judge Roy Bean."

Robert Redford meticulously crafted a vision of dignity and morality throughout his career, often playing heroic characters.
This contrasted with actors like Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, who frequently played morally complex or reprehensible figures in the 1970s.
Redford notably avoided anti-heroes, unlike Pacino playing Neil McCauley from "Heat."

"The Sting" won 7 Academy Awards out of 10 nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director for George Roy Hill.
The film was released on Christmas Day 1973, alongside "The Exorcist" and "Magnum Force," contributing to a notable month in movie history.
It grossed $257 million on a $5.5 million budget, making it the second-highest-grossing film of 1973, behind "The Exorcist."

The poker scene, where Paul Newman's character, Henry Gondorf, ends up with four jacks, is highlighted as a highly rewatchable moment.
Newman's charismatic performance, making a "scumbag" character rootable, is praised, with speculation on how his past struggles with alcoholism may have informed his portrayal.
The first meeting between Gondorf and Johnny Hooker is also noted for its comedic jousting.

Discussions on historical drinking habits and their impact on longevity are prompted by Robert Shaw's limp and anecdotes about his heavy drinking leading to his 1978 death at age 51.
Elizabeth Taylor's composed appearance at the 1973 Oscars is noted despite a streaker incident and her past marriage to "world-class drinker" Richard Burton.
Al Pacino also recalled being intoxicated at the 1974 Oscars ceremony.

The film's casting included actors like young Jane Alexander, Julie Christie, and Tuesday Weld, with hosts questioning the absence of more prominent younger actresses.
The subplot involving two additional hitmen, Cole and Sullivan, is identified as an unnecessary "hat on a hat" that complicates the narrative.
Director George Roy Hill's vision for a cast that appeared authentically from 1936 is discussed.

Jack Nicholson reportedly turned down the lead role in "The Sting," prioritizing other "artistically interesting" films.
Sterling Hayden also rejected a role, refusing to shave his beard for the part.
Supporting actor Jack Kehoe is identified as a standout for his memorable performance despite having few lines.

Speculation arose about casting Tom Hanks and Tom Cruise in "The Sting" roles, considering their age differences and potential performances.
Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg were debated as hypothetical directors for the film, with Spielberg's work on "Catch Me If You Can" cited as a reference.
Philip Seymour Hoffman was also considered as a potential actor for the role of Lonnegan.

The hosts debated "The Sting's" Oscar potential, specifically for Best Picture, acknowledging George Roy Hill's win for Best Director.
The film's strong script structure was cited as a key factor in its Academy Award success.
The discussion also touched on the film's R-rated elements and a perceived lingering threat within the narrative.