We, in the billiard industry, are especially appreciative of what he did for the sport. Even now, almost 50 years after its release, The Hustler still captures todays pool enthusiasts and holds them in its' spell. Whenever we have the film showing in our billiard hall, people still comment on what a great film it is.

The Hustler (the film)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia:

"The Hustler is a 1961 American drama film. It tells the story of small-time pool hustler, "Fast Eddie" Felson, and his desire to prove himself the best player in the country by beating legendary pool player "Minnesota Fats." After initially losing to Fats and getting involved with unscrupulous manager Bert Gordon, Eddie returns to beat Fats, but only after paying a terrible personal price.

The Hustler is an adaptation of the 1959 novel of the same name by Walter Tevis. Sidney Carroll and Robert Rossen adapted the novel for the screen. Rossen directed the film, shot on location in New York City. It stars Paul Newman as Eddie Felson, Jackie Gleason as Minnesota Fats, Piper Laurie as Sarah and George C. Scott as Bert.

The film was a major critical and popular success, gaining a reputation as a modern classic. Its exploration of winning, losing, and character garnered a number of major awards; it is also credited with helping to spark a resurgence in the popularity of pool. A real pool hustler was inspired to adopt the name of Gleason's character, Minnesota Fats, and to use the association with the film in his search for celebrity."

Even though the pool hall and the industry in general has evolved into a more benevolent sport, the raw basics of the game are timeless. The Hustler shows us the skill and the dedication to the game of billiards in a wonderful, but harsh story.

The Color of Money, the sequel to The Hustler, brings the sport into the 80's, making it more contemporary, but still not without the dark side. Paul Newman won his only Academy Award for his portrayl of Fast Eddie Felson in The Color of Money. The Color of Money brought a new popularity to the sport of billiards, and many famous pool players had cameo appearances in the film as well as served as technical advisors amd consultants.

So in closing, we thank Paul Newman for showing the world about pool and billiards. Without these two magnificent films, the wonderful sport of billiards would not have gained the acceptance that it has. It is truly a sport for all.

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